The Department of Veterans Affairs (VA) has long been a crucial lifeline for millions of Veterans, providing essential healthcare and benefits to those who have served the nation. However, over the years, disparities in access to these services have become increasingly apparent, particularly among historically underserved communities. Recognizing the need for more equitable support, the VA has introduced new initiatives as part of its 2024 Equity Action Plan, focusing on reducing disparities in healthcare and benefits for Female, LGBTQ+, African American, and Native American Veterans.
Historically, certain groups of Veterans have faced challenges in accessing VA services. Female Veterans, for example, are the fastest-growing cohort in the Veteran population yet they have often encountered barriers to receiving care that meets their unique needs. Similarly, LGBTQ+ Veterans, particularly those who were discharged under “Don’t Ask, Don’t Tell,” have faced significant obstacles in accessing benefits. African American and Native American Veterans have also been disproportionately impacted by systemic inequities resulting in lower enrollment rates and reduced access to the benefits they have earned.
The VA’s 2024 Equity Action Plan is a direct response to these issues. The plan is part of a broader government-wide equity agenda spearheaded by the Biden-Harris administration, which aims to ensure that all Americans, regardless of their background or identity, have equal access to federal services and support. One of the cornerstone initiatives of the 2024 Equity Action Plan is the expansion of healthcare services tailored specifically for Female Veterans. Over the past few years, the VA has increased access to breast cancer screenings, mammograms, reproductive health services, and one-on-one maternity care coordination. These efforts are designed to ensure that Female Veterans receive comprehensive and timely care, addressing a critical gap in the VA’s service offerings.
For LGBTQ+ Veterans, the VA has taken significant steps to close the gap in benefits for survivors and ensure that Veterans discharged under discriminatory policies can access the care and benefits they deserve. This includes providing access to health care and support services that are sensitive to the needs of LGBTQ+ Veterans, recognizing the unique challenges they face due to their service and discharge circumstances. African American Veterans have also been a focal point of the VA’s equity initiatives. The VA has partnered with organizations like the NAACP to increase awareness of available benefits and services among African American Veterans and to improve the cultural competency of VA providers. This partnership is aimed at increasing enrollment rates and ensuring that African American Veterans receive the full spectrum of benefits they are entitled to. Additionally, the VA has worked to eliminate copayments for American Indian and Alaska Native Veterans, making healthcare more accessible and affordable for these communities. This initiative reflects the VA’s commitment to reducing financial barriers and ensuring that all Veterans, regardless of their economic situation, can access the care they need.
The VA’s 2024 Equity Action Plan represents a significant step forward in the ongoing effort to create a more inclusive and equitable system for all Veterans. By focusing on historically underserved communities, the VA is not only addressing past injustices but also setting a standard for future care and support. As the VA continues to implement these initiatives, the goal is clear: to ensure that every veteran, no matter who they are, where they come from, or how they identify, receives the world-class care and benefits they have earned. This commitment to equity and inclusivity is essential in fulfilling the VA’s mission to serve those who have served the nation and provide them with the support they need to thrive in civilian life.
Given the critical role healthcare plays in the lives of many Veterans, Gardberg and Kemmerly closely monitor developments in this area to ensure we can provide the most current and helpful information to Veterans. If you have a disability claim and need assistance, our experienced Veterans’ Disability attorneys are here to help. At Gardberg and Kemmerly, we are dedicated to helping injured and disabled Veterans secure the benefits they are entitled to. For personalized assistance with your disability claim, contact us at 251-343-1111 or 1-800-332-1529 for a free consultation. We are honored to serve Veterans nationwide from our office in Mobile, Alabama.