Program Evaluation of Post-Deployment Health Assessment (PDHA) and Reassessment Processes (PDHRA) Processes

Abstract : Vanderbilt's study used de-identified Service member (SM) PDHA and PDHRA responses and Military Health System contacts; anonymous SM surveys; analysis of de-identified assessment recordings; and assessment site observations and interviews with key unit and program administrators. Key findings included the PDHRA was associated with increased medical contacts regardless of referral status; SM responses on the assessment were the primary factor in clinician queries and referral decisions; clinician documentation and referral decisions were less consistent than SM responses; assessments conducted telephonically led to similar findings as those conducted face-to-face regarding clinician concerns, but resulted in fewer referrals; factors in the context of the assessment were associated with SM openness; clinicians could benefit from PDHRA-specific training; educational resources were valued by the SM but not commonly provided; and the additional questions about alcohol use did not provide added value. Recommendations were provided.