top of page
Search

Women Veterans: Navigating the VA System Successfully

Writer's picture: Kirk CarlsonKirk Carlson

Women Veterans: Navigating the VA System Successfully

As the number of women serving in the military has increased, so has need for Veterans Affairs (VA) to address their specific health and support needs. Navigating the VA system can be challenging for anyone, but women veterans may encounter unique hurdles and require particular resources. This article aims to provide guidance and insights for women veterans seeking to successfully navigate the VA system and access the benefits and care they deserve.

Understanding Your Benefits

First and foremost, understand the benefits you're entitled to. Women veterans have access to the same benefits as their male counterparts, which include healthcare, education, home loans, and mental health services. The VA has also expanded services to include comprehensive women's health care, such as gynecological services, maternity care, and other gender-specific treatments.

Registering with the VA

Register with the VA as soon as possible if you haven't already. This is the first step in accessing your benefits. You can enroll online, at your nearest VA facility, or by calling the VA. Once registered, you'll receive a Veteran Health Identification Card (VHIC), which you'll use to access services.

Finding Women-Centric Care

Seek out VA facilities with women's health clinics. These clinics specialize in women's health and often provide a more comfortable environment for discussing and addressing gender-specific health concerns. If your local VA doesn't have a women's clinic, ask for a provider specializing in women's health.

Utilizing Women Veteran Coordinators

Many VA facilities have Women Veterans Program Managers or Coordinators. These individuals are there to advocate for female veterans and help them navigate the VA system. They can assist with scheduling appointments, accessing services, and connecting with community resources.

Accessing Mental Health Resources

Women veterans face a higher risk of specific mental health issues, such as Military Sexual Trauma (MST) and Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD). The VA offers counseling and treatment for these and other mental health concerns. If you're experiencing mental health issues, don't hesitate to seek help. Confidential treatment is available, and you don't need to have reported the incident(s) when they occurred to receive care.

Understanding Maternity Care Benefits

The VA offers maternity care benefits if you're planning to start a family. This includes prenatal care, delivery, and postnatal care. Understanding your maternity benefits and coordinating care early in your pregnancy is crucial for ensuring you and your baby have a healthy start.

Joining Support Networks

Connecting with other female veterans can provide valuable support and advice. Organizations such as the Women Veterans Alliance, Service Women's Action Network (SWAN), and American Women Veterans offer networks, resources, and advocacy for women veterans. These groups provide a sense of community and understanding that may be lacking in other areas.

Staying Informed

Policies and benefits can change, so it's essential to stay informed. The VA website, newsletters, and your local VA facility can be good updated information sources. Attending women veteran-focused events and workshops can also keep you informed and connected.

Advocating for Yourself

Don't be afraid to advocate for yourself and ask for what you need. If you're not receiving the care or services you believe you're entitled to, speak up. Use the resources available to you, like Women Veteran Coordinators, to address your concerns.

Conclusion

For women veterans, successfully navigating the VA system involves understanding your benefits, seeking out gender-specific care, and advocating for your needs. Utilize coordinators, mental health resources, and support networks to enhance your experience within the VA system. Remember, as a woman veteran, you are entitled to all the benefits and respect afforded to your fellow service members, and there are resources and people ready to ensure you receive them.

5 views0 comments

Comments


ABOUT US >

Covenant of Courage
The specific purpose of this corporation is to empower and support veteran defenders, guiding them to rediscover their purpose through comprehensive support and training. We are dedicated to building a resilient community that leverages the unique skills of veterans to mentor and inspire the next generation through dynamic youth programs.

The Covenant of Courage is a 501(c)3 tax-exempt organization and your donation is tax-deductible within the guidelines of U.S. law. To claim a donation as a deduction on your U.S. taxes, please keep your email donation receipt as your official record. We'll send it to you upon successful completion of your donation.

CONTACT 

F: 323 471 7279

​

qr-code.png

Subscribe to Our Newsletter

Thanks for submitting!

© 2023 by Make A Change.
Powered and secured by Wix

DISCLAIMER: The information on this site is not legal advice. They are meant solely as educational content. Individual cases will vary.
Covenant of Courage is not a Veterans Service Organization (VSO) or law firm and is not affiliated with the U.S. Veterans Administration (“VA”). Covenant of Courage does not provide legal or medical advice or assist clients with preparing or filing claims for benefits with the VA.

bottom of page