Talk to the Veterans Crisis Line now
An official website of the United States government
The Veteran Engagement Group (VEG) is a dedicated team of Veterans and care partners who serve as active collaborators, working closely with VA researchers to enhance research related to the long-term healthcare needs of aging Veterans. Established in 2018, VEG plays a vital role in ensuring that research conducted within the Veteran Affairs (VA) system is patient-centered and focused on prioritized outcomes that truly matter to Veterans.
VEG members, who bring diverse experiences in aging, caregiving, functional decline, and research, are actively involved in all phases of the research process. From setting research priorities and reviewing study protocols to advising on the use and dissemination of study results, their input is integral to shaping research that addresses the unique needs of the Veteran community. VEG ensures that research findings are effectively communicated back to the Veteran community, making a real impact on their health and well-being.
VEG members meet regularly to review and provide feedback on new and ongoing research projects, help design studies, and evaluate research materials to ensure they are relevant and useful to Veterans and their families. The group is committed to fostering patient-centered research and translating VHA research into practice and community settings.
THRIVE COIN, the facilitator of VEG, supports the group's growth and ensures that it includes members from diverse service branches and historically marginalized groups. By serving on the VEG, Veterans and care partners not only contribute to the improvement of VA research but also help shape the future of healthcare for all Veterans.
"I found presenting to the VEG extremely valuable...members have diverse backgrounds and experiences. Their comments enhanced my research framing and methods. I appreciated their time, attention, and enthusiasm for my research study!"
"VEG is special because they have experience in healthcare and understand many of the systems issues. They have lived experience as Care Partners which is unique among VEG groups."
"The VEG was very helpful and provided very useful feedback about how we could better engage Veterans and address their needs as part of the intervention process."
