Veteran Status

On March 1, 2023, at midnight, Maine EMS activated a new element on the EMS run form to ask about the Veteran status of patients over 17 years of age. The new value appears on the patient demographic section of the run form. The options for the Veteran Status element are:

• Yes
• No
• Not Recorded (This option accounts for individuals that are unable to answer.)

Reason for the change

To track the health needs of the Veteran population and to better allocate resources and support services to meet those needs and address any gaps or disparities in care for Veterans.

Effect on users

During patient interaction with patients over 17 years of age, EMS clinicians will need to ask the patient if they are a Veteran of the United States Armed Forces. If possible, consider explaining that we are collecting this information to track the health needs of the Veteran population. One example could be, “Thank you for allowing us to assist you today. We were wondering if you’re a Veteran, meaning, have you ever served in the military?” Remember that this is voluntary, and the patient can decline to answer if they prefer not to disclose their Veteran status. If the patient responds with a “yes” please thank them for their service.