Sgt Spencer Sikder 945905 <div class="images-v2-count-0"></div>Many vets that I speak with are not medically proficient, just like me. Therefore I found for many that their medical lessons are from friends and colleagues, unfortunately some of their sources are at the local watering hole. 2015-09-06T16:17:41-04:00 Sgt Spencer Sikder 945905

<div class="images-v2-count-0"></div>Many vets that I speak with are not medically proficient, just like me. Therefore I found for many that their medical lessons are from friends and colleagues, unfortunately some of their sources are at the local watering hole.

2015-09-06T16:17:41-04:00 2015-09-06T16:17:41-04:00 SPC Elijah J. Henry, MBA 945946

<div class="images-v2-count-0"></div>I certainly try to learn what I can from reliable sources. It helps having several nurses in my family.

2015-09-06T16:39:39-04:00 2015-09-06T16:39:39-04:00 LTC Stephen F. 945981

<div class="images-v2-count-0"></div><br />I have been engaged in my healthcare for many years. When I was employed I was very engaged with my cardiologists, dermatologists, gastroenterologists and my primary care physicians and surgeons. Since I have been fully treated by the VA Medical Centers I have had a great primary care physician who helps me interact with my cardiologists, dermatologists, gastroenterologists, orthopedics and ophthalmology doctors plus physical therapy. For a couple decades I have tracked my heart medications, pain medications, etc and I know how much I take and when i took it. That information has been very useful for the different doctors and teams I see.

2015-09-06T16:58:45-04:00 2015-09-06T16:58:45-04:00 LCDR Rabbah Rona Matlow 946142

<div class="images-v2-count-0"></div>I have become extremely well versed in medicine, through a) becoming disabled and dealing with multiple health problems. b) working as a DAV service officer; something I recommend as a great way to help other vets AND learn a lot. c) My brother is a senior Paramedic Instructor, and he has taught me a lot.<br /><br />It is vital to know as much as one can about one's health issues. Only you can advocate for yourself and manage your care. No-one else can or will do so. If you're unable, then hopefully you have a spouse/partner/close friend who can do this for you, and hold your medical decision making proxy.<br /><br />At the same time, it is vital to have Advanced Directives for life saving/ending care on record at any hospital where you are treated. For the VA use VA Form 10-0137, available at <a target="_blank" href="http://www.va.gov/vaforms">http://www.va.gov/vaforms</a>.<br /><br />Also, ALWAYS carry a complete medication list in your wallet (not your smartphone, since they are usually password protected)...

2015-09-06T18:05:52-04:00 2015-09-06T18:05:52-04:00 CH (MAJ) Thomas Conner 946398

<div class="images-v2-count-0"></div>After 2 heart surgeries and 4 back surgeries, I have to be involved. Being married to a nurse helps!

2015-09-06T20:20:01-04:00 2015-09-06T20:20:01-04:00 2015-09-06T16:17:41-04:00