In an era where awareness of health disparities is gaining traction, a recent study sheds light on the complex interplay between health-related social needs and healthcare utilization among a specific demographic: US women veterans. The research, conducted by Govier, Than, Danan, and their colleagues, investigates the health-related social needs that contribute to outpatient and emergency department (ED) utilization patterns in this often overlooked group. With the backdrop of data collected from the National Health Interview Survey (NHIS) spanning 2015 to 2018, this study carries significant implications for healthcare policy and service delivery targeted at veterans.
Historically, women veterans have faced unique challenges in accessing appropriate healthcare services, compounded by the societal stigma and bias that often accompany discussions about veteran status. This study’s findings aim to illuminate how various social determinants—ranging from access to transportation and housing stability to healthcare literacy—affect their health outcomes. By recognizing and addressing these health-related social needs, stakeholders can enhance the effectiveness of healthcare systems and ensure that women veterans receive the comprehensive support they deserve.
The research presents a striking correlation between unmet social needs and increased reliance on emergency services. Women veterans with significant health-related social needs reported substantially higher rates of ED visits. This trend not only reflects an urgent response to unmet health issues but also signals deeper systemic problems, such as a lack of resources and support systems tailored to women veterans’ needs. This outcome highlights an urgent call to action for healthcare providers and policymakers to develop integrated care models that consider the social context of health.
Moreover, the study underscores the importance of an intersectional approach to understanding health outcomes in women veterans. Factors such as socioeconomic status, race, sexual orientation, and disability status are shown to influence these aspects significantly. Therefore, it becomes crucial to conduct further research that examines these intersections to create a more nuanced understanding of health disparities in this population. This comprehensive perspective can influence future programs aimed at improving health literacy and access to preventive care services.
The analysis also emphasizes the role of healthcare systems in creating an environment that supports rather than hinders access for women veterans. Many veterans return from service with varying degrees of trauma and mental health issues, which can be exacerbated by the challenges they face in civilian life. Addressing these psychological barriers and providing comprehensive mental health services can significantly change the narrative surrounding healthcare utilization in this demographic.
Interestingly, the study found that outpatient care remains an underutilized resource among women veterans, even in the presence of identifiable health-related social needs. This underutilization presents various challenges, as many women may prefer to seek care in ED settings rather than opt for proactive outpatient care. As such, it evokes a need for interventions designed to bridge this gap by providing education on the benefits of preventive and routine outpatient services. Campaigns that demystify healthcare entry points for veterans could contribute to a healthier populace and fewer instances of acute care reliance.
Additionally, the findings suggest that specific health-related social needs, such as access to reliable transportation, significantly inhibit timely visits to outpatient facilities. Transportation barriers often preclude women from attending necessary appointments, leading to negative health outcomes. As a potential remedy, expanding telehealth options for outpatient care can mitigate these barriers, offering accessibility that aligns with the unique experiences of women veterans.
Importantly, healthcare providers should receive training to recognize and respond effectively to health-related social needs. Understanding these factors can help professionals foster a supportive environment conducive to addressing the multifaceted healthcare challenges faced by women veterans. By equipping healthcare providers with the tools to assess and manage social needs, patient care can evolve into a more holistic practice that acknowledges all aspects of health.
Furthermore, collaboration between veteran service organizations and healthcare systems can amplify efforts to address social determinants of health. By pooling resources and expertise, these entities can craft targeted outreach programs that engage women veterans and guide them toward achieving better health outcomes. Empowering women veterans through education and awareness initiatives that focus on their unique needs may catalyze a transformation in how these programs are delivered.
The research presented has significant implications not only for accessibility but also for policy development surrounding women’s health initiatives. Policymakers are encouraged to consider these findings when advocating for resources to improve healthcare delivery to women veterans. A prioritization of health-related social needs in existing veteran support programs can lead to impactful changes that ultimately uplift this underserved population.
In essence, this study provides a critical lens through which to view the health challenges faced by women veterans. By illuminating the relationship between social factors and healthcare utilization, it paves the way for future research and intervention strategies. As the discourse surrounding veteran healthcare continues to evolve, this research serves as both a call to action and a beacon of hope for informed approaches to addressing the unique needs of women in service.
Ultimately, the landscape of healthcare provision must adapt and innovate to ensure that women veterans do not fall through the cracks. Harnessing this knowledge empowers concerted efforts toward creating equitable health systems and enhancing the quality of life for women veterans across the United States. Through comprehensive understanding and collaborative strategies, the plight of women veterans regarding health-related social needs can be significantly alleviated, making way for a brighter and healthier future.
With rising awareness of these issues, it may also motivate further public discourse around the responsibilities of society to honor and support those who have served in the armed forces. The acknowledgment of health-related social needs as fundamental components of holistic veteran care is now more pressing than ever, warranting our urgent attention as we strive for equity in healthcare access.
Subject of Research: Health-Related Social Needs Among US Women Veterans
Article Title: Health-Related Social Needs and Outpatient and Emergency Department Use Among US Women Veterans: NHIS 2015–2018
Article References:
Govier, D., Than, C., Danan, E. et al. Health-Related Social Needs and Outpatient and Emergency Department Use Among US Women Veterans: NHIS 2015–2018.
J GEN INTERN MED (2025). https://doi.org/10.1007/s11606-025-09952-2
Image Credits: AI Generated
DOI: https://doi.org/10.1007/s11606-025-09952-2
Keywords: Health-related social needs, women veterans, outpatient care, emergency department, healthcare access, NHIS, health disparities, preventive care, telehealth, healthcare policy.
