Military & Veteran Liaison Officer
CurrentI focus on reducing barriers to care at Avera by identifying unique challenges veterans face in accessing healthcare. This involves designing targeted interventions to streamline care processes and improve communication. I develop compassionate scripting for staff to facilitate better understanding and communication with veteran patients and their families. Additionally, I advise on the effective collection of demographic data to ensure services are tailored to meet the specific needs of… Show more I focus on reducing barriers to care at Avera by identifying unique challenges veterans face in accessing healthcare. This involves designing targeted interventions to streamline care processes and improve communication. I develop compassionate scripting for staff to facilitate better understanding and communication with veteran patients and their families. Additionally, I advise on the effective collection of demographic data to ensure services are tailored to meet the specific needs of veterans.I am dedicated to recognizing and celebrating veteran patients through the development of programs that acknowledge their service. I identify and address employment barriers within Avera, designing interventions to create a more inclusive workplace. This includes advising on position descriptions to leverage veterans' unique skill sets and exploring new job opportunities and pathways for career advancement. I also provide guidance on translating military skills into civilian roles.Building strong partnerships with national, regional, and community organizations is a key part of my work. I serve as an expert resource and speaker at veteran-related and other events, promoting awareness and understanding of veteran issues. I design and deliver staff education on veteran-centric topics such as military culture, prevalent health concerns, and PTSD. Furthermore, I support veteran employees through the establishment of support groups and provide continuous education about available services at Avera. As the liaison to the Avera McKenna Hospital, I advocate for the needs of veterans within the healthcare system. I advise on public policy related to veteran issues, ensuring that veteran health and well-being are considered in all policy and process decisions. My work involves a deep understanding of the differences between combat and non-combat experiences, ensuring that policies are sensitive to these distinctions. Show less