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Main Post

Needs of Military Veterans and Dependents

Our nation’s assistance in helping military veterans and their families is lacking. Two needs that need the most focus are healthcare needs, specifically mental health, and transitional support. Many veterans end up homeless or lack health insurance once they enter the civilian world (Deyton, Hess, & Jackonis, 2008). According to Deyton et al. (2008) two million veterans and 3.8 million of their dependents lack private health insurance. Most hardworking veterans earn too much to qualify for Medicaid programs but make too little to afford insurance (Deyton et al., 2008). As a Naval veteran myself, I experienced the intimidating act of leaving the military and starting a new life as a civilian in 2011. During my exit from the military, I received an exit medical exam. This exam included the physician doing a head to toe assessment and reviewing my medical record. No focus was evident regarding my mental health. I was told by the physician, “You are a healthy childbearing woman and have no need for assistance upon discharge.” From there, I was on my own to transition into civilian care. I am one of the fortunate ones who could find resources. Many are not so lucky.

Another need for veterans is transitional support. Deyton et al. (2008) identify the lack of this support as another reason for homelessness and lack of health insurance access for veterans. Before I discharged from the military, my superiors encouraged me to attend a Transition Assistance Program (TAP) class. While participating in this class with about 50 others, I noticed only three other officers. The rest were enlisted. In the military, officers have at least a bachelor’s degree. The enlisted may also have some college background, but most are high school educated and trained on the job. The three officers and I left the class with a stack of papers and extreme confusion. While discussing our fears, we rationalized how fortunate we were that our education gave us opportunities on our exit. Many others in the class were realizing challenges of employment as they described jobs in which they applied and were turned down. Great fear was evident among the group.