The Prevention of Amputation in Veterans Everywhere (PAVE) Program
The PAVE program, set up back in '93, is an all-embracing project aimed to lessen the number of amputations that veterans have to go through. With the intention of improving the life quality and overall health of our vets, PAVE uses a variety of approaches to reach its objectives.
The main goal of the program is to reduce amputations among veterans, especially those with diabetes, vascular diseases, or injuries. With about 24% of veterans in the VHA having diabetes, this is a top priority. PAVE tackles this issue through education, screenings, early interventions, rehab services, and ongoing research.
PAVE starts by hosting workshops for veterans and healthcare workers to raise awareness about preventive care and the need for regular check-ups. Mobile clinics make screenings more accessible for veterans.
For interventions, PAVE ensures quick access to rehab services and works with prosthetic providers to support veterans’ needs. Continuous research keeps the program updated on the latest in prosthetics and amputation prevention.
Teamwork is key for PAVE's success. The program partners with VA healthcare, nonprofits focused on amputation prevention, and private healthcare providers to enhance its reach.
PAVE's effectiveness is regularly checked by monitoring amputation rates among veterans and collecting feedback from both veterans and health professionals. Funding comes from budget allocations, grants, donations, and long-term partnerships.
In short, the Prevention of Amputation in Veterans Everywhere Program aims to protect veterans from unnecessary amputations through education, screenings, interventions, and research, making a real difference for those who served.
The PAVE program provides a model of care for:
(1) Those veterans at risk for primary amputation for example Veterans with diabetes, peripheral arterial disease, chronic kidney disease or any disease which causes sensory neuropathy who are considered highly susceptible to developing foot ulcers.
(2) Those veterans who have already suffered an amputation ( whether traumatic or as a complication of a disease process.
A VA medical facility PAVE coordinator incorporates interdisciplinary management of care utilizing available amputation prevention and rehabilitation resources which could include but are not limited to primary care providers, infectious disease providers, diabetic educators, nurses, podiatrists vascular surgeons, rehabilitation providers, therapists (physical, occupational, recreational), social workers, mental health care providers, and prosthetic and orthotic providers.
The VA and Footwear
For veterans considered to be at Level 2 or Moderate Risk with sensory loss, and may have diminished circulation, a foot deformity or minor foot infection and a diagnosis of diabetes, a referral to Podiatry or foot care specialist for regular scheduled preventative foot care and careful observation is recommended. There is provision for Depth Shoes Inlay footwear and orthosis to accommodate foot deformities to compensate for soft tissue atrophy and to evenly distribute plantar foot pressures. Depth Shoes Inlay Footwear are prefabricated shoes with a higher toe box to accommodate hammer toes and other foot deformities and has enough room to accommodate diabetic inserts.
To make an appointment, view all health services and register for care visit the PAVE page here.
Or click the image below to download / print.
