VA Secretary David Shulkin: Access to emergency mental health care

Veterans with other than honorable discharges get access to some care

MIAMI BEACH, Fla. – Dr. David Shulkin, the Department of Veterans Affairs secretary, recently said 14 out of the 20 veterans who are commit suicide each day did not receive emergency health care at the VA. 

Shulkin gave access to emergency mental health care to veterans who had been separated from active duty with other than an honorable administrative discharge. Veteran advocates praised his decision, but believe that more needs to be done. 

The VA estimates more than 500,000 veterans belong to this population. Shulkin said they are at higher risk of suffering from mental health distress and could be at risk for suicide.

With the improvements, the veterans will be able to access the system for emergency mental health services by visiting a VA emergency room, an outpatient clinic, a vet center or by calling the Veterans Crisis Line at 1-800-273-8255.


About the Author:

The Emmy Award-winning journalist joined the Local 10 News team in 2013. She wrote for the Miami Herald for more than 9 years and won a Green Eyeshade Award.