VA understands that traumatic experiences may affect the lives and health of many women Veterans before, during and after military service. You have access to trauma-informed care at VA. Our health care staff are specifically trained to help you feel comfortable and safe at every appointment, in each exam room and across all VA medical facilities.
What is trauma-informed care?
Trauma is defined as events or circumstances experienced by an individual, resulting in physical, emotional or life-threatening harm with adverse effects on your mental, physical and emotional health, as well as your social and/or spiritual well-being.
Trauma-informed care means your provider understands and acknowledges the role this trauma may play in your life and is committed to enhancing your care by working to establish your feelings of safety, trust, choice, collaboration and empowerment during health care visits. We pay close attention to your preferences and to the physical environment and work to deliver care with absolute support and compassion.
How does trauma-informed care apply to my health care?
VA exam rooms are safe spaces where you may choose to let your provider know about what you have experienced. VA health care providers are trained to know how different traumatic experiences may affect your health, your care needs and your experience with the health care system. They are particularly sensitive to traumas that may be related to military service.
When you visit a VA medical facility, VA health care staff consider several core principles of trauma-informed care. To help you feel safe and comfortable during your visits, your care will include the following:
- You can request a certain gender for your provider
- You can request a chaperoned appointment
- Your provider will explain every step of exams and give you the option to stop at any point
- You will be able to sit where you prefer and stay as covered up as you like when possible
- You can request a telehealth appointment in the comfort of your home
Why does this matter?
Providing women Veterans with trauma-informed care will result in a more supportive and collaborative relationship with your health care team. This will enhance the care you receive and allow us to directly address your health-related questions and concerns. If you have experiences with trauma that may be affecting your health (high blood pressure, problems with sleep, chronic pain) we can help connect you to the right treatment and resources.
We can also connect you with a mental health provider who can work with you on stress management, coping strategies or to talk about the impact of trauma on your life. When you feel comfortable to do so, address your trauma and health concerns with your provider.
You belong at VA, where you have options in how you receive your care. Call or text 1-855-VA-WOMEN to connect with care you can trust or speak with your VA health care team about your options.
Listen to our recent “She Wears the Boots” podcast episode Supporting Veterans Who Have Experienced Trauma to hear from Dr. Lynette Adams of VHA Office of Women’s Health. You’ll learn about how trauma can affect your health and well-being, how VA supports Veterans who have experienced trauma, and what to do if you have concerns.
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