Wait Times for Mental Health Care Remain an Obstacle for Veterans
Nov 2, 2011
Northville, MI (Law Firm Newswire) November 1, 2011 – Veterans who need mental health care through their local VA office are waiting too long to get care, according to a new survey by the Senate Committee for Veterans Affairs.
“These types of wait times are not tolerated when the veteran’s health care needs are physical and they should not be tolerated when the service member’s needs are psychiatric,” said Veterans disability lawyer James Fausone, from Legal Help for Veterans, PLLC.
The survey was in response to testimony before the committee this summer where veterans and their advocates told bleak stories about the wait times and paperwork that stand as an obstacle to care.
Many veterans are diagnosed with post-traumatic stress disorder and can be helped with proper treatment, Fausone said. Delaying treatment exacerbates the patient’s ill health.
The VA reported that 18 veterans commit suicide every day. The committee acknowledged that the VA has made great strides over the past few years in recognizing the seriousness of mental health issues and putting systems in place to address them, especially PTSD. But, the wait time issue has to be addressed if the VA is to successfully serve American veterans.
The surveyed mental health care professionals with the VA said they simply do not have the space or the staff to address the veterans’ needs in a timely manner.
Legal Help for Veterans has a trained staff with experience in mental health care. An experienced attorney can help a veteran get through the red tape that often accompanies requests for help from the VA.
James G. Fausone is a Veterans disability lawyer and Veterans attorney with Legal Help for Veterans, PLLC. To learn more or to contact a Veterans disability attorney or Veterans attorney call 1.800.693.4800 or visit http://www.legalhelpforveterans.com.
Legal Help for Veterans, PLLC
41700 West Six Mile Road, Suite 101
Northville, MI 48168
Toll Free Phone: 800.693.4800
