Caregiver Support Program (CSP) – Partners in Care

Partners in Care: Integrating Caregivers into Veterans' Health Care

What are Partners in Care?

Partners in Care is a system-wide initiative aimed at enhancing Veteran care by fostering collaboration between the Veteran, their caregiver, and healthcare providers, working together as a team to manage the Veteran's health. This initiative recognizes that caregivers play a vital role in the health and well-being of the Veteran, and their involvement in the health care process is essential to ensuring the highest level of care.

Pro tips to foster a successful health care appointment:

Prepare in Advance:
Review the appointment details, make a list of any concerns or changes in the Veteran’s health you want to address during the appointment, and compile a list of current medications, including dosages and supplements.

Encourage Self-Advocacy:
Support the Veteran to be as responsive and engaged as able, maximizing the Veteran’s ability to voice their concerns and preferences.

Share Observations When Needed:
Provide detailed examples of how the Veteran is functioning at home. Mention any physical,emotional, or behavioral changes you’ve noticed.

Be Clear and Concise:
Offer clear and concise insights, briefly highlighting key information that the Veteran may not have shared, to help the provider get a fuller picture of the Veteran’s needs. Avoid overwhelming the provider with unnecessary details.

Take Notes:
Write down important details and follow-up steps that you and the Veteran can refer to later. Confirm understanding with the provider and ask them to share written instructions when needed.

Discuss Follow-Up Care:
Clarify when the next appointment should be scheduled. Ask about warning signs to watch for and when to seek help.

Utilize Resources:
Inquire about any VA support services, such as referrals to specialists, therapists or social workers, that could help the Veteran and you as the partner in care.

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