GAO: Delayed timing may leave a gap in assistance to mental health services during a vulnerable period. Image: inimalGraphic/Shutterstock.com
By: FEDweek StaffTransitioning service members and veterans deserve a more thorough explanation about the mental health services available to them once they leave military service, according to a Government Accountability Office (GAO) report.
Under the Defense Department’s (DoD) inTransition program, service members who have received mental health treatment or sustained traumatic brain injury (TBI) are automatically enrolled. The GAO report noted that while inTransition identified 85 percent of its enrollees, there is no effort to reach out to them until they have left military service for two to three months.
“This delayed timing may leave a gap in assistance to mental health services during a vulnerable period,” according to the GAO report.
The program’s inability to reach more than 70 percent of its enrolled members is largely due to the process, which primarily involves telephone calls. Email, text or location services could improve the process, GAO believes.
Tracking of data also could be improved, according to the report, with a better definition of performance goals.
The joint DoD-VA (Department of Veterans Affairs) committee that oversees transition activities has yet to assess the effectiveness of efforts to offer smooth access to mental health services to which they are entitled, GAO stated. As such, the committee does not know how far these efforts are going, and whether or not there are any gaps or overlaps.
“Thousands of service members transitioned from military service to civilian life in 2022. During this transition period, research has shown that service members are especially vulnerable,” the report stated. “Some may face challenges, such as the loss of a sense of purpose, post-traumatic stress disorder, or other mental health symptoms.”
Pentagon Orders New Task Force, Disbands Counter‑Drone Office
Trump to move Space Command headquarters out of Colorado
Civilian FERS Now? How to Buy Back Your Military Time if You Stand to Gain
Audit: Rise in ‘Severe Staffing Shortages’ at VA Medical Facilities
Can My Military Discharge be Upgraded? Yes
The Rules for Getting Both Military Retired Pay and a Federal Annuity
Credit for Military Service for Federal Retirement Annuities
