Military & Veterans Advanced Healthcare Planning Guide

Military & Veterans Advanced Healthcare Planning

You’ve shown up when it counted. You’ve pushed through pain, fear, and unknowns. You’ve made sacrifices most people don’t even see.

So planning for your future care? That’s not about weakness.

It’s about protecting your values.
It’s about giving your family peace.
And it’s about making sure your voice is heard—especially when you can’t speak for yourself.

This isn’t just paperwork.

It’s your story in your own words.

???? Why This Matters—Now More Than Ever

Many veterans face health challenges that are unique to military service—PTSD, combat injuries, toxic exposure, service-related illness. And when you’ve lived that life, your care preferences may not fit a cookie-cutter mold.

That’s why the VA Advance Directive (Form 10-0137) exists.

It’s designed with you in mind. And it’s your opportunity to take control of how you’ll be cared for in a moment of vulnerability.

Even if you’re healthy today, creating a plan now means your future—and your dignity—are protected.

Because if there’s one thing you know, it’s this:

You don’t wait for the crisis to start prepping.

???? What Real Planning Looks Like (and Feels Like)

No one ever said it’s easy to think about worst-case scenarios. But it’s a whole lot easier than leaving your loved ones to make impossible decisions in the dark.

Here’s what planning can actually feel like:

• Relief: Knowing your wishes are documented and respected.
• Clarity: Removing the burden from your family so they don’t have to guess.
• Control: Even in the worst-case moments, your choices will lead the way.

Start by answering questions like:

• Who do I trust to make decisions for me if I can’t?
• How much treatment is too much?
• What does dignity look like to me at the end of life?
• Do I want to be home? In a facility? Surrounded by family?

You don’t need all the answers today.

Just start with one.

???? VA Resources Built for You, By People Who Understand You

Veterans do best with veterans.

That’s why the VA offers group planning sessions—where you can talk this through alongside others who’ve walked a similar path.

These groups offer:

• A safe space to learn, share, and ask questions
• Peer support from fellow service members
• Real stories, real clarity, no judgment

Ask your VA provider about Advance Care Planning Group Visits at your local VA. You might be surprised how comforting it is to walk this road with someone who gets it.

???? Tech That Has Your Six

Digital tools make it easy to access and share your directive:

• My HealtheVet lets you upload your form directly to your VA record—accessible from any VA location.
• VA Launchpad app gives you access to tools like PTSD Coach and Mindfulness Coach—apps that can help if emotions get tough while planning.
• Smartphone medical ID features can make sure emergency responders know who your agent is and that you have a plan in place.

Your voice shouldn’t be locked in a file cabinet. With the right tools, it can go where you go.

???? Update It Like You Update Your Gear

Life changes. Your health evolves. So should your directive.

Set an annual reminder—your birthday, a military service anniversary, or Veterans Day. Review your preferences and update anything that no longer fits.

Trigger events to watch for:

• New diagnosis or major surgery
• Change in marital status or primary caregiver
• Retirement or discharge
• Changes to disability status or VA benefits

Even if nothing’s changed, just noting “Reviewed: [date]” on your form shows it’s still active and relevant.

???? Tell the Right People—And Don’t Be Afraid to Say Why

When you update your directive, tell your:

• VA primary care team
• Civilian doctors (if you see any)
• Your healthcare agent
• Close family

And explain why. These aren’t just clinical decisions—they’re emotional truths.

You might say:

“After my last surgery, I realized I’d want something different next time.”
“I talked to my daughter and made some changes based on our conversation.”
“This is how I want to be cared for—because this is how I want to be remembered.”

???? Veteran FAQs—Because You Deserve Clear Answers

What makes the VA directive different?
It’s tailored to your experiences. It includes options around mental health care, PTSD, and service-connected conditions—things a civilian form might overlook.

Will civilian doctors honor my VA form?
Yes, but it’s smart to complete your state’s form too. Make sure they both reflect the same preferences. Carry copies. And let your family know where they are.

Do I need both VA and civilian versions?
Not always—but having both ensures everyone’s covered. It’s like having a backup plan for your backup plan. That’s just smart.

What if I’m deployed and haven’t done this?
Without a directive, military medical teams do what they’re trained to do: save your life. But if you want something different—say it now, in writing.

Where should I keep my form?
Upload it to My HealtheVet, store it in your phone, give it to your agent and your doctors, and—this matters—tell someone where it is.