The Impact of VA's Free Emergency Suicide Prevention Care for Veterans

The Department of Veterans Affairs policy offering free emergency suicide prevention care has supported around 50,000 veterans and former service members in its first year, saving over $64 million in health care costs while providing essential lifesaving services, according to a news release by the VA.

The Department of Veterans Affairs policy has significantly contributed to suicide prevention among veterans by offering free emergency care services in crises. These services include emergency room care, inpatient or crisis residential care for up to 30 days, outpatient care for up to 90 days, and transportation costs without needing veterans to be enrolled in the VA system or visit a department facility.

Ending veteran suicide is a top priority of the VA and President Biden’s Unity Agenda. Efforts to expand support include the Veterans Crisis Line (accessible via 988, then press 1), partnerships with community organizations for localized support, enhanced firearm suicide prevention initiatives, and a national awareness campaign.

“There is nothing more important to VA than preventing Veteran suicide—and this expansion of no-cost care has likely saved thousands of lives this year,” said VA Secretary Denis McDonough. “We want all veterans to know they can get the care they need, when they need it, no matter where they are.”

Under this policy, any veteran, irrespective of their enrollment status in the VA, can receive emergency care for suicidal crises without incurring any costs. The policy also includes specific nonveteran individuals, such as those with other-than-dishonorable discharges, reservists, National Guard members with at least 100 days of service in specific operations, and veterans who have suffered military sexual trauma.

The provision of these benefits is a direct result of the Veterans Comprehensive Prevention, Access to Care, and Treatment (COMPACT) Act of 2020. It ensures that eligible individuals are not liable for the costs of emergency suicide care and transportation, and it provides referrals to other VA programs and benefits post-care.

Individuals in crisis should visit the nearest emergency room for immediate assistance and inform the staff of their eligibility. The VA should be notified promptly through the designated contact methods. If an individual is incorrectly billed for such services, they are advised to contact the VA's customer service for resolution.

Reference

VA provides free emergency suicide prevention care to nearly 50,000 veterans and former service members in first year of new policy. News release. VA News. Published January 17, 2024. Accessed February 5, 2024. https://news.va.gov/press-room/va-provides-free-emergency-suicide-prevention-care-to-nearly-50000/