We're addressing the unique healthcare needs of California's veterans through policy change.
Veterans face significant barriers to accessing timely and appropriate healthcare, with many struggling to navigate the complex systems designed to serve them.
To better meet the unique needs of veterans and their families, we must improve how civilian healthcare systems capture veteran status and refine intake processes to ensure veterans receive the care and support they deserve.
1.5
million veterans live in California.
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CalVet
80%
VA enrollees reported having some type of public or private health insurance.
​
82%
PRELIMINARY REPORT
Bridging the Gap: Evaluating Civilian Health Systems’ Preparedness to Serve Veterans
Discover what’s working—and what’s not—for veterans navigating civilian healthcare systems.
This preliminary report reveals critical gaps in identification, coordination, and continuity of care that impact California’s 1.5 million veterans.
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Download the report to see how ANA\California and its partners are working to close those gaps and improve care across all systems.
SURVEY
Help Us Improve Care for Veterans and Military-Connected Families
Are California healthcare systems prepared to serve those who’ve served? Take our survey to support how community clinics, hospitals, and health systems identify and support veterans and military-connected patients.
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We’re calling on nurses, informaticists, and healthcare leaders. Your input will help shape statewide policy recommendations aimed at improving intake, care coordination, and outcomes for veterans across all healthcare settings.
Take the survey and be part of the change.
“We need to support veterans and their families throughout their lifespan, starting from reintegration into civilian life.
Developing best practice policies through evidence-based strategies for addressing the unique health needs of veterans is essential. Nurses need access to tools and resources that help identify common health conditions veterans may face and guide appropriate interventions.”
Dr. Ali R. Tayyeb, PhD, RN, NPD-BC, PHN, FAAN
ANA\California Member, US Navy Veteran
Meet our Veteran Health Advisory Council
Dr. Ali R. Tayyeb
PhD, RN, NPD-BC, PHN, FAAN
ANA\California President's Award Recipient, Taskforce Member
J. Lance Rounkles
MSN, RN, PMH-BC, NE-BC, CNML, CNE, CNEcl
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ANA\California Advocacy Institute Fellow 2025, Taskforce Member​​
Michelle French
MSN, RN, CNS, CEN, CNE
Taskforce Member
Dr. Sheree Scott
PhD, RN, AGCNS-BC, CMSRN, CNL
Taskforce Member
Kim Brown Sims
MBA, BSN, RN, PHN, FACHE, NEA-BC, LBBH, RNC-NIC(E
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Taskforce Member​​
