President
As we all know, for veterans living with a spinal cord injury (SCI), the challenges can extend far beyond the initial injury. Changes in mobility, independence, employment, relationships, and overall health can affect nearly every part of daily life. The U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs (VA) provides a comprehensive, lifelong system of care designed to help veterans with spinal cord injuries and disorders maintain their health, maximize independence, and improve their quality of life. It is for this reason that PVA annually petitions Congress to maintain this system of care The VA’s Spinal Cord Injuries and Disorders (SCI/D) System of Care is one of the largest specialized spinal cord care programs in the country. The system currently includes 25 specialized SCI/D Centers, supported by VA medical facilities and SCI/D teams closer to veterans’ homes. This “hub and spoke” approach allows veterans to receive specialized care while also having access Chapter President to services in their local communities. Although this doesn’t work for those veterans living in more remote areas of the country, overall it works for most of PVA’s members. Specialized Medical Care Spinal cord injuries can create complex medical needs that require ongoing monitoring and specialized treatment. Because VA SCI/D Centers provide medical and surgical care from professionals experienced in treating conditions associated with spinal cord injuries and disorders, it is paramount that this system is consistently funded by Congress. The advocacy that each chapter provides is important to our members and any future members of PVA. Our chapter sends a minimum of two people every year to participate in this advocacy annually. Meetings are arranged by our chapter staff with members of congress representing the districts in which our members reside, as well as both of Florida’s state senators. Often the best contacts in these offices are the representative’s coordinator of veteran’s affairs. Care can include primary and preventive medicine, specialty consultations, medication management, treatment of complications, and long-term medical and surgical care. The VA emphasizes lifelong care because the effects of a spinal cord injury can change over time. I have experienced such a drastic change in my care needs because of an automobile accident. Three years ago. One important component is the comprehensive annual evaluation. VA recommends that veterans with SCI/D receive an annual evaluation at an SCI/D Center. These evaluations bring together doctors, nurses, therapists, psychologists, social workers, pharmacists, dietitians, and other specialists to identify health concerns early and develop individualized plans. Members should always schedule and attend annual evaluations regularly. Rehabilitation and Physical Therapy Rehabilitation is a major part of recovery and long-term independence after a spinal cord injury. VA rehabilitation programs can help veterans regain as much function as possible, learn new ways of performing daily activities, and adapt to physical changes resulting from their injuries. Physical therapy can address mobility, strength, gait, wheelchair skills, exercise, and pain management. Occupational therapy helps veterans develop or regain skills needed for everyday activities and greater independence. VA rehabilitation services also include other specialized therapies and recreational programs For veterans who have recently suffered a spinal cord injury, VA provides acute rehabilitation and comprehensive rehabilitation programs. Long-Term Care Spinal cord injuries are lifelong conditions for many veterans, and the VA recognizes that healthcare needs can change as veterans age. The VA provides several long-term care options, including SCI/D long-term care facilities and other arrangements such as contracted nursing homes, depending on individual circumstances and eligibility. There aren’t nearly enough long-term care facilities in the VA system. PVA has been for years and continues to advocate for VA to fund additional facilities. Fortunately for Central Florida members, a Community Living Center is available at the Lake Nona VA hospital.