Deployment Risks and Exposures

Clinical Visit

A visit to the WRIISC clinical program includes a risk communication session. Conducted as an interview, it is an opportunity for patients to receive both an exposure assessment and an educational session.

An exposure assessment is a patient interview that examines the different jobs and tasks a veteran performed in the past. It provides a historical review of the patient's military and civilian work history, paying careful attention to the different work practices and materials involved.

For military deployments, the assessment includes questions about exposure to combat, artillery and explosive devices, prisoners of war or refugees, insects, harsh weather or living conditions, and vaccines or medications. The assessment also includes questions about work tasks and whether they involved the use of fuels, solvents, paints, or exposure to other potential hazards such as noise or radiation.

During the educational portion of the session, the hazards that the patient was exposed to are discussed. The veteran is encouraged to ask questions to increase his or her knowledge and understanding about the exposure experience. The risk communication specialist will review the hazards of concern to the veteran and the scientific findings regarding potential health outcomes.

WRIISC staff will provide the veteran with resources for continued study and guidance about where to find more information. The veteran may contact the risk communication specialist at any time to ask additional questions, obtain help in finding more information, or get assistance with interpreting scientific materials.

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