Exploring Veteran cultural competency in Canadian health care services

Abstract

LAY SUMMARY On leaving the military, Canadian Armed Forces Veterans begin receiving health care services in the civilian community. Health care providers may not understand the military culture from which Veterans come, and how military service can affect health and well-being. The purpose of this study was to identify what civilian health care providers need to know and do to provide culturally competent care to Canadian Veterans. Veterans and health care providers (family physicians and an occupational therapist) were interviewed, and specific knowledge, skills, and abilities were identified as important when establishing a quality health care relationship. This information can be used to develop resources for health care providers when beginning work with Veterans and their families, as well as for Veterans themselves as they transition to receiving care in civilian systems.