A special walk for inclusive care

Compassion, empathy and collaboration are important values that guide the work of Gulf Coast VA employees. To honor and promote these values, staff and Veterans across the three-state health care system united on Oct. 15 and walked in solidarity at the 10th Annual Person-Centered Care Walk-a-thon.

This year's theme, "It's My Honor: Walking Together for Inclusive Care," was chosen based on feedback received from Veteran focus groups.

In the past year, some Veterans raised a concern about a lack of sensitivity toward the needs of visual- and hearing-impaired Veterans. To address these concerns, the Patient Centered Care team joined forces with Audiology & Speech Pathology and the Blind Rehabilitation Center to co-host this year's walk.

Hearing and visual impairments affect many Veterans

"This event is a powerful reminder that hearing and visual impairments affect many of our Veterans on a daily basis," said Audiology & Speech Pathology Chief Harrison Smith. "Through education and awareness, we can break down barriers and ensure that our Veterans receive the care and support they deserve."

The team chose Oct. 15, White Cane Day, for the event to symbolize their commitment to creating a more inclusive health care environment for our Veterans.

Attendees experienced hearing and vision impairment, from trying out tools simulating hearing loss to using a white cane to navigate spaces. The activities were designed to foster greater understanding of the daily challenges faced by hearing-and visually impaired communities.

Resources about VA health care services and the health care system's Blind Rehabilitation Center were provided to educate attendees about the importance of accessible care and how health care providers and the public can support hearing and visually impaired individuals.

Promoting a culture of empathy and inclusivity

A total of 189 non-employee participants including Veterans, family members and visitors attended the event at one of five clinic locations. To increase participants' awareness about other critical health care issues, 65 educational booths covering a range of health and wellness topics were available.

In addition to completing a short walk and visiting resource booths, participants signed a pledge of support committing to raising awareness about the needs of visually impaired and hard of hearing Veterans. This pledge serves as a call to action to encourage the community to advocate for better care and support for these individuals.

Through the collaboration of teamwork and community engagement, Gulf Coast VA is advancing compassionate care and improving patient outcomes one step at a time.

"By coming together as a community, we're not only raising awareness but also promoting a culture of empathy and inclusivity across our health care system," said Smith.

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