VA adopts holistic healthcare

By Joyce Kryszak

Buffalo, NY – The Patient Centered Medical Home model has been gaining popularity with medical practices, including some in western new york. Now the civilian health care approach is being adopted by the Veterans Administration Healthcare system.

The idea behind the model is to improve patient health while cutting costs by reducing duplication and costly procedures. To become certified as a PCMH, practices must implement a team of healthcare professionals who integrate and coordinate all aspects of patient care.

That is a lot of health care professionals for the large VA Healthcare System. Dr. Terri Julian was recently appointed to oversee the program for the VA in Western New York. Julian said this approach gives veterans a say about their own care.

Julian said that kind of inclusive, coordinated care is perhaps even more important for veterans. She said many face special health care issues and challenges, such as post traumatic stress disorder. Julian formerly was the program manager for the VA's PTSD clinic in Batavia. The doctor said she saw first hand the need for integrated care for PTSD patients.

Julian said PTSD causes stress and anxiety which can wear down the immune system, causing a host of diseases and illnesses. She said the VA's new healthcare teams will now be able to better prevent and manage sickness.

Julian said all veterans will be notified about the approach to their health care as the program is rolled out over the next few months.