Noteboom The Law Firm

Despite VA Efforts, Racial Disparity Remains In VA Health Care System

The Department of Veterans Affairs (VA) has made substantial progress over the last 10 years in not only ensuring every patient is given a proper screening, but treating patients with high-risk conditions. Unfortunately, according to a recently published study, the amount of racial disparity in clinical trial outcomes continues to exist at steady levels.

Having made progress, researchers still pointed out areas of concern. The study concluded there were still existing gaps in care between black and white veterans. Specifically, these gaps exist when the VA treats:

 

·      heart disease;

·      diabetes; and

·      hypertension.

 

The sample for the study consisted of more than 1.2 million national VA healthcare enrollees, and was limited to the years between 2000 and 2009. Researchers studied 10 specific clinical performance tests directly related to not only cancer screening, but healthcare for cardiovascular and diabetes.

Although the VA has enhanced the quality of health care for both black and white veterans in that 9-year time frame, that improved care did not shrink existing racial "gaps" in the outcomes of clinical trials.

Researchers were not able to provide an answer as to why this dynamic existed, and called for further research. Being screened is not enough. It must also be known if that screening led to any type of care, and if that care was successful in achieving quantifiable improvements.

If you are a disabled veteran who has been denied disability compensation or have not yet applied for benefits from the VA, a South Florida disability attorney from LaVan & Neidenberg is ready to help. To learn if you are entitled to certain programs and benefits contact our veterans disability rights firm today - 1-888-234-5758.