Oral

As the number of women serving in the military continues to grow, so does the need for health care focused on the unique concerns and issues of women veterans. Women veterans encounter many health issues similar to civilian women (e.g., pregnancy); however, women veterans may be more likely to experience depression and other mental health conditions as a result of combat-related trauma. The four presentations in this session focus on this special population and approaches to offering comprehensive and holistic care within the VA healthcare system. The importance of integrated healthcare for women veterans, especially with regard to mental health, will be explored, as will the impact of mental health on other health conditions, such as heart disease.

Session Objectives: 1. Compare the health needs of women veterans with women civilians; 2. Describe different approaches to women's health care within the VA healthcare system; and 3. Discuss the impact of these approaches on health outcomes.

CE Credits: Medical (CME), Health Education (CHES), Nursing (CNE), Public Health (CPH)