Masters Thesis

An evaluation of the current state of veterans affairs and veterans’ perceptions of their federal benefits

The Department of Veterans Affairs (VA) operates with a multi-billion dollar annual budget in service of the millions of veterans alive in the United States. The benefits provided by the Department include a multitude of services that impact various aspects of veterans’ lives post-service. Because of the magnitude of the budget allocated and the effects these have on the lives of veterans, it is necessary that this system is efficient and effective. The current study surveyed 87 veterans from a large, public university in the American West. Results indicate that education benefits, health benefits, and disability compensation are the most important. Furthermore, health benefits and disability compensation are the most in need for improvement, as evidenced by dissatisfaction ratings and the ranking by participants of benefits needing revision. Demographic differences presented across all variables and veterans’ perspectives about society at large were associated with benefits-related responses. The results indicate the need to reform the disability rating schedule, make health benefits more efficient, and require a mandatory transition course to increase veterans’ knowledge and understanding of their benefits.

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