Featuring insights from Scott Zastrow, Green Beret and Special Forces Medic
Veterans, your service and experiences are documented not only in your stories but also in your medical records. As part of Organize Your Medical Information Month this October, we encourage you to take control of your healthcare management by organizing your medical records. Scott Zastrow, a Green Beret and former Special Forces Medic, shares valuable insights on how keeping your medical information organized can help you, especially when filing VA claims.
Why should veterans start organizing their medical information now?
One of the biggest delays in the VA claims process is gathering all the necessary data before submitting a claim. The more organized your records are, the easier it will be to file a claim when the time comes. Organizing your medical records proactively will prevent unnecessary stress and ensure that all the relevant details are readily available.
How does having organized medical information help with obtaining an accurate or improving an existing VA rating?
Having all pertinent records on hand shows when and how an injury or illness occurred, how many times it has been treated, and the extent of the treatment. This includes additional tests, imaging, referrals, and any other related information. All of these factors are considered when determining an accurate VA Rating, which could lead to an improvement in your benefits.
What are the first steps a veteran should take to start organizing their medical information?
If you’re still on active duty, talk to your medical provider or clinic staff about how to access your healthcare portal. Veterans can access their medical records through VA.GOV under the ‘Manage your health and benefits’ section, commonly known as the ‘VA Blue Button.’ Once you have your records, start organizing them by date and type to create a manageable system.
How can veterans utilize technology to maintain and update their medical records?
Veterans can use their healthcare portals to download and organize their records digitally. If you’re unfamiliar with online systems, ask a family member or colleague for help. Keep a digital file folder on your computer and regularly update it with new records, organizing by date and specific medical visits or conditions.
What common challenges might veterans face when organizing their medical information, and how can they overcome these challenges?
Veterans who served before the switch to electronic medical records may need to request their old paper records. These can be obtained through a formal request from the VA or your previous military medical facilities. For those with electronic records, maintain a well-organized folder on your computer, separating records by date. If managing a large file seems daunting, start small and update regularly. Some veterans also prefer to print out their records and organize them in binders, though that approach may not suit everyone.
How often should veterans review and update their medical records to keep them current?
You should update your records every time you visit a VA healthcare provider or an out-of-network provider. Make it a habit to add new documents to your files after every visit to ensure your records stay up to date.
Are there veteran support organizations or services that specialize in helping veterans with this task?
Several veteran organizations, including the Disabled American Veterans (DAV) and the Veterans of Foreign Wars (VFW), offer resources and assistance for veterans in organizing their medical records. Many of these organizations provide guidance on navigating the VA system and keeping track of important documents.
How can organized medical information contribute to better healthcare management and emergency preparedness?
Having well-organized medical records allows healthcare providers to quickly understand your medical history in case of an emergency, ensuring you receive appropriate care. It also helps you maintain a clear overview of your health, ensuring that any ongoing conditions are properly managed and treated.
What final advice do you have for veterans who are hesitant about starting the process of organizing their medical information?
Start early and stay consistent. It’s much easier to maintain an organized system than to sort through years of unorganized records all at once. Begin by setting aside some time each month to update your records, much like paying bills. Over time, it will become a routine task and ensure that you’re always prepared.
Organizing your medical information may seem like a daunting task, but taking it one step at a time will save you stress in the long run. By staying proactive and consistent, you’ll not only make the VA claims process easier but also ensure that you have all the necessary information to manage your healthcare effectively. Remember, your medical records are a key to unlocking the benefits and care you’ve earned. Start today, stay organized, and take control of your health journey.
