Racial Differences in Psychiatric Symptom Patterns and Service Use in VA Primary Care Clinics

Abstract

The purpose of this study was to assess racial differences in psychopathology and service use in a sample of African-American and Caucasian veterans. African-American (N=253) and Caucasian (N=460) veterans from primary care clinics at four Department of Veterans Affairs (VA) medical centers were compared on rates of trauma, posttraumatic stress disorder (PTSD), other psychiatric diagnoses, functional status, and use of VA services and benefits. A cross-sectional, epidemiologic design incorporating self-report measures, structured interviews, and chart reviews was used. With the exception of substance abuse or dependence diagnoses and use of substance abuse treatment and urgent care services, few racial differences emerged. Overall, the findings suggest that African-American and Caucasian veterans, including those with PTSD, do not differ significantly in psychopathology or in their use of VA benefits and services.