American Indian veterans and VA services in three tribes.

The purpose of this project was to describe experiences of reservation-based American Indian (AI) veterans with the Department of Veterans Affairs (VA), and to identify opportunities for improving care and services. Focus group discussions and individual interviews were conducted with AI veterans, family members, and community members in three diverse tribes. Results showed that many veterans in tribal communities experienced challenges receiving services and benefits from the VA, including lack of culturally competent care, transportation problems, and difficulties navigating the system. Family members, often main caregivers for AI veterans, lacked necessary resources, including sources for information, support services, and financial means to procure adequate care. A number of strengths also were identified, including local leadership and a strong community commitment to improve care for veterans.