Women Veterans do not always come to VA for medical care, but we interviewed three women who do to see what they would say to those who don’t. We asked the same question as always: Why do you get your health care at VA?
Air Force Veteran Karla
Natasha
Women do not self-identify as Veterans first. But in the women’s clinic, they are Veterans, most of the staff are female Veterans, and they understand what the female Veterans are going through when they’re there.
Knowing that you’re dealing with people who have been through the same things that you’ve been through on every level, not just as Veterans and having been somewhere, but as female Veterans, makes a big difference. I’m Natasha; I was in the Army. I chose the Army because they said a girl shouldn’t.
Karla
The fact that I can have care from some of the best doctors in the city – some of the exact same doctors at VA that I used to see out in the private sector – is phenomenal. So my suggestion to any Veterans, or anyone on active duty right now, is to remember that you have that in your back pocket, and tap into it, because it’s a great resource.
I’m Karla and I was in the Air Force from 1982 to 1986. I never realized I was eligible for VA services until some cousins of mine and a friend encouraged me to look into it. I told them no, I’m not retired, I’m not severely disabled, I didn’t serve war time. I was so stunned because I printed off the form and it took me two minutes to fill it out. I went to VA and they have taken excellent care of me.
Army National Guard Veteran Kimberly
Kimberly
It’s Kimberly. I was in the Army National Guard. Women just don’t really realize you can come to VA for health care and get your maternity care paid for and get a breast pump. These are all sorts of things that I was not aware of until I went there. Knowing that that’s available, I think we are just trying to get the word out and educate. (Services vary by location and eligibility.)
Natasha
VA provides almost everything that a female Veteran needs. I have had gyno visits there, and all my mammograms there. When I was pregnant with my daughter, I went through pre-natal visits at VA. For me, the difference is the comfort level. I know what to expect. I know I can go there and I know who I’m going to see. I know how to navigate around where I’m trying to go. So, it’s a one stop women’s’ shop.
Apply for VA health care
Enrolling for VA health care is easier than ever before. Explore your eligibility today at www.choose.va.gov/health.
Topics in this story
More Stories
Navy Veteran and president of the American Medical Association got a colonoscopy and encourages other Veterans to do the same.
Chicago Vet Center and VA gave women Veterans information on VA services available to them.
MVP’s research informs personalized care for Veterans, supporting whole health and beyond.
Seems to be at the VA the doctors hands are tied. They are limited to what care they can give you. Medication is prescribed to everyone across the board. Even my mom on Medicare receives the same medications. Absolutely terrible.
I have one of the best doctors at the VA. Dr. Barnes is the best. She make sure I keep up with my appointments and medication.
Been getting all my health care at the local va hospital. Have always received the best of care.
I have been going to the VA for three years. I went there in dire pain… still have it. I’m tired of playing hurry up and wait. Did that for 20 yrs.
I’ve been coming to the Bay Pines VA hospital in St Pete, FL since 1981. I worked at Regional Office there and found out I qualified for care.
They have been taking care of me for 40 years now. When I began to have trouble walking they even gave me my power chair. They have been amazing .
Only if you like your healthcare served a side of sexual assault and malpractice.
i’m 100 disabled VA, I get the Best of car. My wife needs the same care…How do, I believe she is eligible???…thanks…Merry Xmass