Supporting the Frontlines: A Scoping Review Addressing the Health Challenges of Military Personnel and Veterans

Abstract

(1) Background: Military personnel and veterans meet unique health challenges that stem from the complex interplay of their service experiences, the nature of warfare, and their interactions with both military and civilian healthcare systems. This study aims to examine the myriad of injuries and medical conditions specific to this population, encompassing physical and psychological traumas. (2) Methods: A scoping review (systematic search and non-systematic review) was performed to evaluate the current landscape of military healthcare. (3) Results: A significant change in the injury profile over time is identified, linked to shifts in combat strategies and the integration of advanced technologies in warfare. Environmental exposures to diverse chemical or natural agents further complicate the health of service members. Additionally, the stressors they face, ranging from routine stress to traumatic experiences, lead to various mental health challenges. A major concern is the gap in healthcare accessibility and quality, worsened by challenges in the civilian healthcare system’s capacity to address these unique needs and the military healthcare system’s limitations. (4) Conclusions: This review underscores the need for holistic, integrated approaches to care, rigorous research, and targeted interventions to better serve the health needs of military personnel and veterans.

Impact of life-threatening military incidents during deployments abroad on the relationships between military personnel and their families

“…Thus, it can be assumed, that mental health impairment ( 13 ) as well as physical and mental disorders are part of the occupational risk of military personnel and other emergency responders ( 14 , 15 ). In the past decades, many studies have been published on deployment related mental disorders among military personnel ( 16 ). Particular emphasis has been placed on post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD), while other common mental disorders such as major depression or anxiety disorders have received more attention in recent years ( 17 ).…”