Career Tips & Advice

Veterans As Patients – Establishing the Best Working Relationship

Concorde Staff

Concorde Staff

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Updated November 12, 2015. The information contained in this blog is current and accurate as of this date.
veteran patients

Working with veterans can be deeply rewarding, but this important job is also distinctly different. Health care workers must take a unique approach to their interactions with veteran patients, many of whom suffer from traumatic brain injuries alongside other health conditions.

The medical assisting, practical nurse, registered nurse, and other health care education programs at Concorde Career College prepare students to work with veterans while promoting a greater understanding of and sense of empathy for the nation's valued veteran population.

 

COMMON VETERAN HEALTH CONCERNS

 

Traumatic brain injury (TBI) is an increasingly prevalent condition among veterans. The primary cause of TBI is an external mechanical force, such as a blow to the head. According to the Defense and Veterans Brain Injury Center, 25,111 service members suffered TBI in 2014. Although the effects of TBI typically disappear after a few weeks or months, severe cases may result in long-term symptoms.

 

THE ROLE OF THE MEDICAL PROFESSIONAL

 

When treating veteran patients, health care workers must address not only their current physical ailments but also any lingering mental health issues. If asked about mental health concerns, some veterans may become defensive; as such, medical professionals must approach this sensitive topic with care. Mental health issues related to combat or its aftermath can arise years or even decades after a veteran has returned home, so it is vital for health care workers to continue to monitor veterans for changes in behavior and overall health.

Medical professionals who work with veterans should be aware not only of the many unique health issues faced by these individuals, but also the pressing concerns they may face at home. Unemployment is of particular concern, as it may further contribute to already problematic mental health issues.

The key to success in working with veterans is an in-depth understanding of the issues today's veterans face. This can only be gained by carefully studying the veteran population to determine which concerns are most prevalent. Upon graduating from Concorde, health care workers must approach all interactions with veterans with a combination of compassion and respect. In doing so, they can truly make a difference for the valued veteran population.

Learn to treat your patients with respect and sensitivity. The health care programs at Concorde have just the right touch.

Take The Next Step Towards a Brighter Future

We have a Concorde representative ready to talk about what matters most to you. Get answers about start dates, curriculum, financial aid, scholarships and more!

  1. Program length may be subject to change dependent on transfer credits and course load. Please refer to current course catalog for more information. Concorde does not guarantee admittance, graduation, subsequent employment or salary amount.

  2. Professional certification is not a requirement for graduation, may not be a requirement for employment nor does it guarantee employment.

  3. Financial aid is available to those who qualify but may not be available for all programs. Concorde does not guarantee financial aid or scholarship awards or amounts.

  4. Clinical hour requirements and delivery may vary by campus location and may be subject to change. Concorde does not guarantee clinical site assignments based upon student preference or geographic convenience; nor do clinical experiences guarantee graduation, post-clinical employment or salary outcomes.

  5. Registration and certification requirements for taking and passing these examinations are not controlled by Concorde, but by outside agencies, and are subject to change by the agency without notice. Therefore, Concorde cannot guarantee that graduates will be eligible to take these exams, at all or at any specific time, regardless of their eligibility status upon enrollment.

  6. Externships are a non-paid in-person learning experience, whose length and location may be subject to change. Concorde does not guarantee externship placement, graduation, post-externship employment or salary outcomes.