Compassion and Care: Addressing the Unique End-of-Life Needs of Veterans

deadline for submissions: 
August 31, 2027
full name / name of organization: 
Dr. Khadija Boyd/Journal of Veterans Studies

*****NO SUBMISSION DEADLINE*****

Submission Guidelines: https://journal-veterans-studies.org/about/submissions

Note 1: Manuscripts should be original and not under consideration by any other publication.Note 2: Any manuscripts that do not adhere to the submission guidelines will not be considered.

Call for Papers: The Journal of Veterans Studies invites clinicians, researchers, scholars, practitioners, and policymakers to submit original research articles, reviews, and case studies dedicated to exploring the complexity of end-of-life needs, which requires specialized care that addresses physical, psychological, and emotional issues of veterans.

Overview: Veterans face distinctive challenges at the end-of-life, arising from their military experiences, service-related injuries, and the long-term impact of exposure to combat and hazardous conditions. As such, their end-of-life care needs are complex and multifaceted. 

As the veteran population ages, addressing their specific end-of-life needs is increasingly important. Military service often leaves lasting physical, emotional, and psychological impacts that can significantly influence a veteran's experience in their final days. Unique conditions such as Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD), traumatic brain injuries (TBI), and exposure to hazardous substances (like Agent Orange and burn pits) require specialized care approaches. Additionally, veterans may have deeply ingrained values, cultural practices, and spiritual needs that should be respected and integrated into their care plans.

The Journal of Veterans Studies seeks to bring together diverse perspectives and insights to advance the field of end-of-life care for veterans. Submissions should aim to highlight evidence-based practices, policy recommendations, and innovative care models that can enhance the quality of life for veterans as they approach the end-of-life. Submissions should also seek to address systemic barriers that veterans may encounter in accessing appropriate and compassionate care. By contributing to this dialogue, authors can help shape the future of end-of-life care for veterans, ensuring they receive the dignity, respect, and support they deserve after a lifetime of service.

Topics of Interest: We welcome original research articles, review papers, clinical studies, and case reports on topics including, but not limited to:

  • Physical Health Management: Addressing chronic conditions and pain management for veterans at the end-of-life.
  • Mental Health and Emotional Support: Strategies for supporting veterans with PTSD, TBI, and other psychological issues during end-of-life care.
  • Family and Social Dynamics: The role of family support and community resources in end-of-life care for veterans.
  • Spiritual and Cultural Sensitivity: Incorporating veterans' spiritual beliefs and military culture into their care plans.
  • VA Benefits and Services: Navigating and optimizing VA healthcare services and benefits for veterans at the end of life.
  • Ethical and Legal Considerations: Decision-making processes, advance directives, and ethical issues in the care of veterans.
  • Access and Barriers to Care: Challenges and solutions in providing end-of-life care to veterans in rural or underserved areas.
  • Innovative Care Models: New approaches and programs in palliative and hospice care for veterans.

Manuscripts should be original and not under consideration by any other publication.