Lindsay Marcal, Director, Membership 

Chronic diseases disproportionally affect the United States veteran population, with many individuals at higher risk of developing more than one condition, according to the National Center for Health Statistics. Mental Health America, a member of the National Health Council (NHC) also reported that veterans reported a higher prevalence of mental health issues during the COVID-19 pandemic. 

Many veteran, patient, and caregiver organizations have missions that align with the NHC’s advocacy efforts on behalf of people living with chronic diseases and disabilities and their family caregivers. To better understand how the NHC can work alongside organizations in this space to support veterans and their families, the NHC invited veteran, patient, and caregiver organizations for a meeting in September. Representatives from each organization provided insight into the issues affecting the men, women, and families who currently serve or who have served in the U.S. military and discussed policy priorities to support the veteran population.  

Following the September meeting, the NHC has been following developments in the Department of Defense (DoD) commitment to funding research supporting the health of women service members, veterans, and family members, and in funding for veterans’ benefits. The NHC also continues to follow the regulatory and legislative impact of the U.S. Supreme Court’s Chevron Decision and its potential to change the policy landscape as it relates to health policy and health care, which may have implications for veterans and the Department of Veterans Affairs (VA).  

As we honor veterans on Veterans Day and throughout the year, we recognize the contributions of NHC members with programs or resources that support veterans and their caregivers including but certainly not limited to the ALS Association, American Cancer Society, American Kidney Fund, Amputee Coalition, Brain Injury Association of America, Caregiver Action Network, Global Liver Institute, HealthWell Foundation, Mental Health America, National Alliance for Caregiving, and more. We also recognize the many more Veterans Service Organizations serving and advocating for veterans across the country.