March 9, 2022 - WASHINGTON —  The Department of Veterans Affairs encourages Veterans affected by inflammatory bowel diseases to access a new website that raises awareness of Crohn’s disease and ulcerative colitis.

Veterans can use the site to get step-by-step instructions to access treatment and links to VA resources — connecting with online communities and peer to peer support to improve their quality of life.

“A 2020 study of VA data found that rates of anxiety, depression and post-traumatic stress disorder increased among Veterans diagnosed with inflammatory bowel disease over time,” said National Center for Healthcare Advancement and Partnerships Nurse Executive Tracy L. Weistreich, Ph.D. “It’s important we find ways to assist our Veterans with all issues relevant to this chronic condition, especially Veterans who may not be receiving care through VA.”

Through this partnership, the Crohn’s & Colitis Foundation will provide educational materials and share resources widely with VA staff, Veterans and the public to increase knowledge about inflammatory bowel diseases and treatment options. VA will train the Foundation on Veteran-specific concerns like suicide prevention and share free resources such as the Veterans Crisis Line.

Learn more about this and other partnerships facilitated by HAP.  

Source: VA