Noteboom The Law Firm

VA Polytrauma Units Provide More Cohesive Care

The Department of Veterans Affairs (VA) operates multiple polytrauma sites across the country. Polytrauma units serve unique functions within the VA health care system: they allow patients to be treated by multiple doctors for multiple issues.

Because of the extended reach polytrauma units use to provide help, veterans tend to get more comprehensive and better treatment at such facilities. Soldiers being admitted may find when they are in there they need to talk to a psychologist, which is readily available at polytrauma units.

Furthermore, such "lateral" help is available under one roof, as opposed to most hospital environments where patients usually have to leave and go to another office on another day to see a psychologist. Many soldiers praise how these units allow the patient to direct their own care and use clinicians and physicians as assets.

Broken down, polytrauma units consist of two things. First, they are a highly specific rehabilitation centers. Second, they have a hospital wrapped around them focusing on such mental health issues as post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) and traumatic brain injuries (TBIs).

Soldiers who have suffered multiple blasts, mental health problems, or have lost limbs because of the blast would have both treated in one place in a polytrauma unit. Traveling between doctors at different locations decreases the level of provided care.

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.