Navigating healthcare as a military family often feels like playing an endless game of musical chairs. Frequent moves, the constant turnover of physicians at military treatment facilities, and the unique challenges of being stationed in remote locations create a perfect storm for healthcare continuity issues. I’ve learned this firsthand, having experienced the frustrations of undiagnosed conditions and inconsistent care over the years. When we were stationed at Fort Stewart, my Primary Care Manager (PCM) changed three times in just one year, leaving me scrambling to establish trust and keep my medical needs on track.
The Challenge of Military Healthcare
Each relocation means finding new doctors, transferring medical records, and building relationships with healthcare providers all over again. Adding to the complexity, military facilities often face high turnover rates among the medical staff. A PCM who knows your history one day could be replaced by someone new the next, disrupting continuity of care.
For me, these challenges led to delays in diagnosing health conditions that had likely been present for years. It wasn’t just the moves, it was the fragmented nature of military healthcare itself. Without a single point of continuity, important details were lost in the shuffle, and I had to fight to ensure my concerns were heard and addressed.
How to Take Control of Your Healthcare
While the system is far from perfect, there are proactive steps we can take to bridge the gaps and ensure our families receive the best care possible. Here are my top strategies:
Create a Medical Binder for Each Family Member
A well-organized medical binder can be a game-changer. Include the following for each family member:
Personal Information: Full name, date of birth, insurance details.
Medical History: A timeline of past illnesses, surgeries, and significant health events.
Immunization Records: Essential for school enrollment, deployments, or PCS moves.
Medication List: Include current prescriptions, dosages, and any allergies.
Provider Notes: Copies of appointment summaries, test results, and referrals.
Contacts: Current PCM’s information, along with specialists and emergency contacts.
*Keep this binder updated and carry it with you to every appointment.* Family Caregivers online has some good ideas, resources, and printable sheets.
Be Your Own Advocate
Nobody knows your body or your family’s needs better than you do. Speak up, ask questions, and don’t hesitate to seek second opinions if something doesn’t feel right. Be persistent when navigating the referral process, and follow up on pending lab results or specialist appointments. Lucky I have a background in medicine so the last time my daughter was in the hospital I knew what was not being done correctly. Don’t be afraid to speak up, even if you worry about hurting someone’s feelings. As a natural people pleaser, I know how hard it can be to be assertive, especially when it comes to standing up for yourself. However, this is your health and your life, and it is too important to stay silent. Medical professionals have a critical job that can mean the difference between life and death. It is essential to let them know when something feels wrong and to persist until someone truly listens and takes you seriously.
Build Relationships Where Possible
Even if your PCM changes frequently, take the time to establish rapport with each new provider. Share your medical binder during the first visit to give them a comprehensive view of your history. This small effort can help them better understand your needs and pick up where the last provider left off.
Use Available Resources
Military families have access to several resources designed to support healthcare needs, including:
Tricare’s Online Portal: Manage referrals, check test results, and schedule appointments.
Patient Advocates: These people are Available at most Military treatment facilities to help resolve issues with care. I have had to reach out to the one and she was super helpful and knew exactly how to help me navigate the issues I was having.
Military OneSource: Offers guidance on navigating healthcare transitions during a PCS.
Plan Ahead for PCS Moves
Before a move, schedule a final appointment with your current PCM to discuss ongoing care. Request printed copies of medical records and verify that they’ve been transferred to your next duty station. Research your new Military treatment facility in advance and make appointments as soon as possible after arriving.
Closing the Gaps In Your Healthcare
While military healthcare will likely never be perfect, we can take steps to mitigate its challenges. By staying organized, advocating for yourself and your family, and leveraging available resources, you can ensure that critical details don’t fall through the cracks.
The binder for each family member can be an invaluable tool. And while the system may not always work seamlessly, being proactive can give you a peace of mind, and that’s something we all deserve.
Also check out a blog here on Military mom collective about Child Life Specialists CCLS are trained professionals that help children and families cope with stressful healthcare experiences.
