As someone who has served in the military, I understand the profound sense of duty that comes with it. That’s why I deeply value and honor the service of our veterans, especially as we celebrate Veterans Day. We not only acknowledge the sacrifices made by those who have served but also reflect on the care and support they deserve. Access to timely, high-quality and safe healthcare is the standard for every veteran.
Veterans Day offers a special opportunity for me to express gratitude for the insights I receive from veterans. Their feedback is essential in shaping the services we provide. The candid conversations I’ve had with veterans often center around their personal experiences, and these honest exchanges offer invaluable perspectives that drive my work. Hearing their stories of service and camaraderie reminds me of the deeper purpose behind my role with the Veterans Health Administration.
One story I don’t often share is why I choose to receive my own care from the VA. While many people know me as the network executive director of the VA Sunshine Healthcare Network, I was a United States Marine. I served eight years on active duty, following in the footsteps of my father, who was also a Marine. My service, like that of many veterans, holds a deep personal significance, particularly when I reflect on the shared legacy of military service in my family.
After my time in the Marine Corps ended, I learned I was eligible for VA healthcare because of my service. At the time, I didn’t fully understand the significance of this benefit. Like many young veterans, I didn’t think much about healthcare and assumed it was something I could put off until later. I remember receiving a letter from the VA informing me of my eligibility and thinking I’d reach out for an appointment in a few years. But the VA didn’t wait for me—they proactively reached out to schedule my first primary care appointment. This is part of the VA’s commitment to preventive care, ensuring veterans get the care they need before problems arise.
During that first appointment, I realized that VA healthcare is built on the principle of lifelong relationships with veterans. Unlike traditional healthcare, which often focuses on treating illnesses after they occur, the VA emphasizes prevention—helping veterans maintain their health through regular care and early intervention. That day, I came to appreciate the value of this proactive approach, not just for myself but for all veterans.
In much of the U.S. healthcare system, people often delay seeing a doctor until they have an urgent health issue. This can make conditions more difficult and expensive to treat. Veterans, in particular, can face unique and complex health challenges related to their military service, making early intervention even more crucial. By focusing on prevention, the VA helps veterans avoid many conditions or manage them before they worsen.
Preventive care not only improves health outcomes but also reduces the personal and financial toll of illness. However, it requires a coordinated effort among many providers. The VA excels at this, with an integrated system designed to ensure veterans receive comprehensive care at every stage of their lives.
My positive experience with VA healthcare is what inspired me to apply for a job with the Veterans Health Administration. I wanted to be part of an organization that truly prioritizes veterans and builds relationships as a foundation for delivering health services. That same dedication fuels me today as I work to improve the care we provide for veterans across the country.
Since 2005, I have relied solely on VA healthcare for my medical needs. As a federal employee, I have access to extensive health benefits that allow me to receive care anywhere. But as a service-connected veteran, I choose to receive my care from the VA because I believe in the system and know firsthand the quality of care provided there.
I’m personally invested in this system, and I’m dedicated to making sure that the care we provide continues to improve for all veterans. As I age, I trust that the VA will be ready and capable of meeting my healthcare needs, just as it stands ready for all veterans.
I have no hesitation in seeking VA healthcare, whether it’s primary care, mental health support, surgery or emergency services. VA healthcare is about building a lifelong relationship with each veteran. On this Veterans Day, I reaffirm my commitment to strengthening that relationship and ensuring that the VA continues to support veterans throughout their lives. As a patient, I trust the VA completely. And as a leader, I am dedicated to improving the care we provide, ensuring that every veteran receives the respect and care they have earned.
David Isaacks, FACHE, is network executive director, VA Sunshine Healthcare Network, U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs, Tampa, Fla., and the ACHE Regent for Veterans Affairs. He is also a veteran of the U.S. Marine Corps.