Center for Women Veterans (CWV)
Women's Health Transition Training Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
- What is the VA Women’s Health Transition Training?
- Why should I take the course?
- Why was this training developed specifically for women?
- What topics does the course cover?
- How is the course delivered?
- How long is the online course, and do I have to complete it in one sitting?
- How can I register for the online course?
- Who can take Women’s Health Transition Training?
- Where can I learn more about women’s health services and support at VA?
1. What is the VA Women’s Health Transition Training?
The VA Women’s Health Transition Training is an optional course for servicewomen to help you plan for post-separation health care needs and learn about VA services and resources for women Veterans. The course should be taken in addition to the Transition Assistance Program (TAP), not as a substitute. The course was designed by VA, in collaboration with DOD.
2. Why should I take the course?
Less than half of eligible women Veterans are enrolled in VA health care. Some do not believe they are eligible for VA health care benefits; some do not see themselves as Veterans, and some are unaware of all the gender-specific health care services that VA offers women. This training provides a deep dive into those available services and dispels the myth that VA is not a good place for you to receive quality care.
This course will help you prepare for military transitions. You will also learn about women’s health care services, including mental health and military sexual trauma care, eligibility requirements, how to connect with other women Veterans, and how to find local VA facilities and points of contact for additional support. The information in this course will empower you to make informed decisions about your future health care, aiding in the transition to civilian life.
3. Why was this training developed specifically for women?
As a woman Veteran, you’re part of the fastest-growing group within our Veteran population. If you qualify for VA health care, you can get access to high-quality women’s health services as part of your benefits. Women Veterans face a higher rate of some health-related challenges after military Service compared to men, including chronic pain, obesity, musculoskeletal issues and depression (Haskell et al 2006, 2011, 2012; Breland et al 2017). VA has care to meet your needs. And yet, fewer women Veterans seek services and support from VA compared to men. Enrolling in VA health care and support services will help you during your military transition and beyond.
4. What topics does the course cover?
Women’s Health Transition Training topics include:
- Availability of women-specific health care at VA facilities including reproductive services, maternity care, infertility services, mental health services, newborn care, cancer screenings, whole health, gynecological care, and musculoskeletal care
- Eligibility for VA health care and how to enroll; women (and men) do not have to be disabled to received health care through VA
- Resources available during the military to civilian transition process, including connecting with fellow women Veterans through women-specific networks, resources, and programs post-Service
- A virtual tour of a VA medical facility to learn more about where women Veterans can receive health care
5. How is the course delivered?
The course is currently offered as a self-paced online course that can be taken anytime, anyplace. Anyone can access the course at TAPevents.mil/courses. Subscribe to the Center for Women Veterans emails for more information and updates about upcoming Women’s Health Transition Training course opportunities.
6. How long is the online course, and do I have to complete it in one sitting?
The online course takes approximately 2.5 hours, but it is self-paced and you can pause and return to the course as needed. If you need to leave and resume the course, use the direct link provided in the registration confirmation sent to the email address you provided, or return to TAPevents.mil/courses and re-enter your details exactly as you entered them on your first visit.
7. How can I register for the online course?
Follow these steps to access the self-paced online course:
- Visit TAPevents.mil/courses. (Note: For best browser performance, please use Google Chrome or Firefox.)
- In the TAP Curriculum drop-down menu, select All Courses or Transition Tracks.
- Locate Women’s Health Transition Training and select Get Started.
- Complete the required fields.
- A registration confirmation will be sent to the email provided. If you need to leave the course and resume later, use the direct link provided in the email or re-enter your details exactly as you entered them on your first visit.
If you’re having trouble navigating TAPevents.mil/courses, check out the list of commonly asked questions or contact the help desk from 9:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m. ET, 7 days per week, at feedback@tapevents.mil or 877-577-6697.
8. Who can take Women’s Health Transition Training?
The course is open to service members who identify as a woman who either are currently serving or have previously served in the military. It is encouraged for servicewomen who will be transitioning to civilian life or the reserve components within the next calendar year.
9. Where can I learn more about women’s health services and support at VA?
Visit www.womenshealth.va.gov or call the Women Veterans Call Center at 855-829-6636. You can also check out the She Wears the Boots podcast on iTunes or Spreaker.
