ABSTRACT
The rural and highly rural veteran population is widely dispersed and racially, ethnically, and culturally diverse; and 15% self-identify as a racial or ethnic minority. The older veteran population is often diagnosed with diabetes, obesity, high blood pressure, and heart conditions that require more frequent, ongoing, and costly care. The VA/VHA anticipates the “next” generation of veterans who served in the Mideast conflicts are likely to have multiple medical and the combat-related conditions that require significant ongoing specialty health care and extensive rehabilitation. Females are the fastest-growing veteran population. Females often are uncomfortable in the male-dominated therapy settings; thus, their issues and concerns may not be addressed. Finally, most veterans are proud of their service and generally eager to share their story with a health-care provider. In turn, the health professionals should become informed about the veterans and their military experiences.
