Getting into the Driver’s Seat during Whole Health Month
During Whole Health Month, we take a look at VA’s approach to care, which not only supports health and well-being for Veterans, but also puts them back in the driver’s seat on the road to better health.
When providers and coaches take a back seat, providing suggestions instead of directives, Veterans often feel empowered to pursue healthier lifestyles on their own. This proactive, patient-driven care has a huge impact on the lives of both our Veterans and our staff members.
When assigned to Whole Health, Veterans are assigned a Whole Health Coach who assists them in setting goals based on what matters most to them. Those priorities drive the health planning decisions they make with their care team. In addition to clinical care, Veteran health plans may include Well-being programs that enhance their self-care. From physical and creative activities to mindfulness meditation or complementary approaches such as yoga and acupuncture, Veterans choose the combination of care that helps them achieve peak whole health preparedness. Here are a few testimonials from some of our local Veterans:
“I didn’t even realize that VA care was available to me when the Army sent me home. It wasn’t until eight years ago, that I spoke with a Veteran buddy who encouraged me to sign up. VA assigned me a provider, and I was prescribed some drugs for my depression, but I didn’t like the way the drugs made me feel like a zombie. Then three months ago, my provider recommended Whole Health, and figured I would give it a three-month trial. It’s good to have somebody that listens to you! My coach listened to my problems, and we came up with a plan. She provided insight toward reducing reactions to people and interacting with them more. Whole Health gave me a lot of input on living a more natural healthy way. We discussed body movements, lowering my blood pressure, and Battlefield Acupuncture (BFA). She told me that I was in charge, and provided suggestions that I hadn’t thought of before. She opened my eyes to how medical and natural remedies can work together, and I’m glad I found whole health. Even my buddy remarked on how I haven’t flown off the handle lately!” -David Block, US Army Veteran 1969, 4th I.D., Vietnam
“A fellow Veteran introduced me to VA Healthcare in 2007. I was self-employed, so the healthcare VA provided was huge. When Julie, my nurse suggested I try Whole Health, I didn’t know what to expect. Healthcare to me always seemed rushed; like being packed into a M.A.S.H. (army hospital). But my Whole Health Coach wasn’t like that. She didn’t tell me what to do; but showed me what’s available. During my first half hour session, she directed me in many areas, some not even medically related! I was able to sign up for a chiropractor and am now involved in the swimming program on campus. Julie is still my ‘go-to’ for everything, but my Whole Health Coach has revealed so much more to me.” -Richard Springer, US Air Force 1978 to 1982, Radar Operator, Ground-Directed Bombing Auto Aircraft (B52 electronic Warfare), SAC
“After suffering from TBI in 2012, I went through multiple surgeries, and was medically discharged in 2014. When I began receiving VA Care for seizures, epilepsy, and depression, I could barely even hold a regular conversation. I first heard about Whole Health from a retired SEAL who talked about reconnecting and navigating his mental acuity, which leads to better physical health. I did a personal deep-dive and realized its value right away. During the first year of the programs I noticed the importance of having a sound body and mind and the connection between both. I’m so glad VA has adopted it. The coaches are great for their openness and willingness to share, and Whole Health has impacted my life 110%. I have had a large increase in my quality of life, and I am able to assess where I am now to make realistic goals for much better outcomes. Even my buddies have noticed an improved quality in my conversation skills. They don’t really understand the wholistic approach, but they can see it working. It’s a great resource for Veterans in any situation.” -John McCormack, US Navy 2011-2014, Strike Fighter Squadron (VFA) 94, Palo Alto, CA.
As you can see, when Veterans are setting the goals for their physical and mental health, they are more comfortable with making improvements after their medical visits. You can also continue to share the #LiveWholeHealth blog series with your Veterans and remind them to visit our Whole Health resources page to find self-care apps and activities. Put the Veterans in your care back in the driver’s seat with Whole Health.