Phat Nguyen
Pronouns: He/him/his
Research Mentor(s): Dr. Nikhil Parekh, National VA Whole Health Educator, VA Ann Arbor Whole Health Director
Research Mentor School/College/Department: VA Ann Arbor Healthcare System,
Presentation Date: Thursday, April 22, 2021
Session: Session 5 (3pm-3:50pm)
Breakout Room: Room 14
Presenter: 1
Abstract
Whole Health is a care model developed by VA clinics and hospitals in an effort to integrate complementary medicine, prevention, and the uniqueness of each patient to provide healthcare that ultimately focuses on what matters to the patient, rather than what is the matter with them. Such a care model is crucial in the U.S where healthcare often focuses merely on treatment, rather than prevention, and preventable deaths are estimated to make up 20-40% of total deaths caused by the top five causes of mortality. This study aims to expand on the current body of research that evaluates the efficacy of Whole Health, by garnering feedback about various aspects of health and how the program has come about addressing them. The research is conducted through a questionnaire created on the Qualtrics platform, which will be electronically and potentially physically distributed to veterans, caregivers, and staff. Data from the questionnaire will be inputted into an Excel spreadsheet to be later processed and analyzed using SPSS, a quantitative and qualitative statistical analysis software. Previous studies on Whole Health have indicated an improvement in social engagement, physical wellbeing, and perceived stress for patients enrolled in the program. So while results are currently pending, we expect our data to also suggest Whole Health’s adequate provision of care at least within the aspects of wellbeing mentioned above. Analysis of pending results will provide valuable insight for evaluating and potentially informing future changes to the program to better reflect its mission.
Authors: Nikhil Parekh, Phat Nguyen
Research Method: Qualitative Study
