Exposure-Informed Care: Why It's Important and How the Veterans Affairs Does It

Area of Science:

• Environmental Health
• Occupational Health
• Healthcare Systems Research

Background:

• Caring for patients with environmental and occupational health concerns is difficult due to limited exposure data.
• Uncertainty in linking health conditions to exposures erodes patient-provider trust and satisfaction.
• The Veterans Affairs (VA) developed Exposure-Informed Care (EIC) to validate concerns and proactively address environmental exposures.

Purpose of the Study:

• To present a framework for the VA's implementation of Exposure-Informed Care (EIC).
• To provide an adaptable model for other healthcare systems to implement EIC principles.

Main Methods:

• Integrating exposure screening and information into clinical practice.
• Training clinicians in exposure evaluations and risk communication.
• Establishing surveillance, research, and workforce development programs.
• Securing leadership commitment for policy standardization and cultural change.

Main Results:

• The VA implemented EIC through comprehensive screening, clinician training, and research initiatives.
• Workforce development and leadership commitment were crucial for EIC's success.
• Standardized policies and cultural shifts support the EIC model within the VA.

Conclusions:

• EIC principles are adaptable and beneficial for healthcare settings beyond the VA.
• Implementing EIC can improve care for veterans in community settings and civilian populations exposed to environmental hazards.