Customer: U.S. Department of Defense, Office of the Assistant Secretary of Defense for Health Affairs (OASD(HA))
Challenge: In June 2014, the Department of Veterans Affairs (VA) launched the AHOBPR. The AHOBPR allows eligible veterans and service members to document their airborne hazard exposures and report health concerns through an online questionnaire and voluntary, free medical exam. In August 2019, the OASD(HA) implemented Congressional requirements to enhance service member awareness of and potential enrollment in the AHOBPR through at least one electronic and one physical mailing method. The work was conducted by Booz Allen.
Approach: The Booz Allen team conducted extensive background, policy, and media research, which supported the development of a strategic communications plan that could easily evolve to meet changing priorities. The plan outlined OASD(HA)’s comprehensive education and awareness campaign, including key messages, products, and channels tailored to our target audiences, and evaluation metrics. The team coordinated across the VA, military public health commands, and other stakeholders to ensure the dissemination of accurate, timely information through optimal channels.
Value: The Booz Allen team exceeded the congressional requirement by developing and disseminating a full suite of materials for service members as well as their health care providers, including the following:
• Developed a direct mail flyer for potentially eligible service members; within two months of mailing, active duty and Guard/Reserve AHOBPR participation increased by 6%.
• Created a promotional video, fact sheet, frequently asked questions, and additional service member-specific products, all of which are housed at Health.mil/AHBurnPitRegistry.
• Developed fact sheets and memoranda for health care providers.
In the first nine months of the task, total active duty and Guard/Reserve participation in the AHOBPR increased by approximately 29%.