Health Status and Perceived Health Care Needs of Female Veterans of the Armed Services

The purpose of this study was to assess the occurrence of genderspecific health problems within the female veteran population of Tidewater, Virginia. A secondary purpose was to determine the perceived quality of care which the Veterans Administration delivers. The study was accomplished by receiving 149 mailed questionnaires regarding health status and health care received from the Veterans Administration. Chi square was utilized to determine significant differences between branch of service served and heal th status. Army veterans had significantly higher incidences of heart disease, diabetes and stomach ulcers. Among the other branches of service (Air Force. Navy, Marines, Coast Guard), no significant health differences were found. Chi square was utilized to determine significant differences between perception of quality of care and health care providers utilized. Significant differences were found for those utilizing only private physicians and also with those who utilize both private and Veterans Administration physicians. This study reinforces the need for complete and adequate gender-specific health care for female veterans