Veterans are a crucial yet frequently undervalued segment within our communities. They comprise over 19 million men and women who have served in the US military from World War II to the current active-duty period.
Tragically, veterans encounter multiple health and behavioral obstacles that set them apart from the average US citizen. They are 50% more prone to homelessness, with over 1.5 million currently facing the threat of losing secure housing. This group is also more susceptible to mental health challenges, with the incidence of PTSD being nearly 15 times higher among veterans compared to those without military service experience. Here is how pharmacists can help improve care for veterans.
Minimize Obstacles to Healthcare
Essential steps towards enhancing veteran mental health care include educating veterans about treatment options and improving access to high-quality care to overcome care barriers effectively.
However, the reality is that many veterans struggle to access necessary care due to factors such as a shortage of mental health professionals, inadequate training, or living in rural areas. Research indicates that only half of veterans requiring mental health treatment actively seek assistance.
The journey to recovery is often challenging for veterans as they must navigate through various providers who may not adequately address their specific needs. Additionally, the treatment options available may not meet the expected care quality standards.
Pharmacists Possess a High Level of Education
Pharmacists with advanced education in the healthcare realm undergo one of the most rigorous training programs in the industry. To become a pharmacist, individuals must achieve PharmD programs online degree, typically involving intensive academic pursuits encompassing advanced sciences and communication proficiencies. This comprehensive educational journey enables pharmacists to adeptly cater to the distinct needs of their Veterans, facilitating healthier lifestyles for those they serve.
Enforce Appropriate Standards for Quality Care
Enhancing care quality involves leveraging incentives and disincentives that uphold best practices. It is imperative to rely on our policymakers and political leaders to encourage the utilization of evidence-based, high-quality treatments through standardized practices across all facets and tiers of mental health services.
For instance, adjusting the financial remuneration for healthcare providers to ensure suitable compensation can attract and retain highly competent professionals, leading to enhanced care quality. Another method policymakers could employ to alleviate certain obstacles to veteran
mental health care is by addressing apprehensions regarding potential career impacts of seeking assistance, potentially necessitating modifications to military protocols.
Explain Early Prescription Refills
Some veterans perceive visiting the pharmacy as a challenge in maintaining their medication regimen. Pharmacists suggest scheduling medication refills monthly or every 60 days can help patients become more attentive and conscious of synchronizing their prescriptions.
The pharmacist’s responsibility involves educating veterans on their prescribed medications, including dosage schedules, timing, potential interactions with food or other drugs, and the proper dosing amounts for each interval.
Encourage Patients to Maintain a Full Medication List
Veterans must maintain a well-structured inventory of their prescribed medications, detailing their name, dosage, administration schedule, and the specific purpose or medical condition it addresses. It is standard practice for pharmacists to recommend that patients provide a duplicate of this list to their physician and family members in case of an emergency.
Endnote
Pharmacists actively support patients’ medication adherence and are urged to explore additional methods to enhance compliance. Pharmaceutical companies have an increasing chance to boost medication adherence by providing patients with comprehensive information and guidance.
Your contribution to the National Association of American Veterans, Inc. (NAAV) makes a difference in the lives of those service members and veterans recovering from severe injuries and disabilities nationwide. We believe that our programs and services will make an unprecedented impact by donors. To donate visit www.naavets.org click on Donate Today! Thank you. If you are a federal employee or federal retiree visit, Give Happy Today www.GIVECFC.org to donate September 1, 2024 through January 15, 2024. NAAV’s CFC number is 85065 “Caring About Those Who Served.” We look forward to hearing from you in 2024. Thank you.