DataPoint: Health Needs of New York State Veterans

A 2017 study designed to assess the ability of health care professionals to provide health services to veterans found that New York State is home to more than 800,000 military veterans, which is the fifth largest veteran population nationwide. The study was conducted by the New York State Health Foundation (NYSHF), and its data relies on provider self-reported responses. The U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs (VA) spent $6.3 billion on benefits and services for veterans living in New York State, ranking the state fourth nationally in spending on veteran medical services. The VA operates 12 medical centers and 48 outpatient clinics statewide. Nearly half of the VA spending was dedicated to medical care services. One half of the military veterans residing in New York State are above 65 years old, and about half are enrolled in the VA health care system.

In 2015, 58 percent of those enrolled in the VA health care system visited a VA health facility. Therefore, many veterans seek health care services elsewhere. The 2017 NYSHF study findings suggest that many New York State health care providers can improve their understanding of military culture. Among the medical professionals surveyed, 30 percent said they were familiar with military rank structure, 22 percent had familiarity with specific health care needs of female veterans, and 27 percent reported knowing how to refer a patient to the VA. Of the rehab/long term care facilities surveyed, 89 percent were prepared to handle patients with common veteran conditions, while 19 percent reported screening patients for current/previous military service.

For a complete assessment of the readiness of New York State medical professionals to appropriately provide health care services to veterans, click here.

Contact: Ken Allison, kallison@leadingageny.org, 518-867-8820