Capstone Project: Veterans Coalition Building with Grace Hospice

Abstract

Background: The lack of veteran services and increased veteran illnesses has led to the need for medical coverage for veterans receiving end-of-life care in Genesee County. Purpose: To form a veteran's coalition to provide information about medical coverage including end-of-life services to more veterans to improve health outcomes and provide education. Methods: Worked with Grace Hospice and Compassus Hospice to develop coalition of representatives from veteran organizations. Results: A local veteran's coalition was formed. Solicited volunteers agreed to become members. Policies for coalition operation were developed and an initial meeting was conducted. Grace Hospice Volunteer Coordinator was appointed Co-chairperson and responsible of future coalition operations. Conclusion: Northwest Local Veteran's Coalition will continue to provide veterans access to information about medical coverage for veterans in need of resources to treat their mental health conditions, infectious diseases, and cancer illnesses. Further health education research about the impact on veteran's health due to lacking access to medical coverage is necessary.