Vets Can Get Emergency Mental Health Care for Free

January 17, 2023

Effective today, military veterans in “acute suicidal crisis” can go to any Veterans Affairs or non-VA health care facility for emergency health care for free, even if they aren’t enrolled in VA care, the agency said in a Friday press release.

“Veterans in suicidal crisis can now receive the free, world-class emergency health care they deserve, no matter where they need it, when they need it, or whether they’re enrolled in VA care,” VA Secretary Denis McDonough said. “This expansion of care will save veterans’ lives, and there’s nothing more important than that.”

It’s one of several steps VA has taken to address veteran suicide, including development of the 988 hotline for veterans in crisis.

VA photo

January 17, 2023

Recent News

ADC50 Changemakers: Senator David Pryor

ADC50 Changemakers: Senator David Pryor

When military bases close, entire communities can be left searching for a path forward. Senator David Pryor (D-Ark.) helped ensure they were not left to navigate that challenge alone.  Pryor, who died in 2024, was a foundational champion for defense communities,...

Army Opens Annual Tenant Satisfaction Survey

Army Opens Annual Tenant Satisfaction Survey

The Army opened its annual Tenant Satisfaction Survey, asking the service’s 200,000 tenants to give feedback on Army housing conditions. It will be open for 60 days, and the responses will be factored into future improvement decisions.  “We are committed to holding...

In Our Communities

In Our Communities

Defense Leaders Forge Emergency Response Partnership  The emergency management team at Patrick Space Force Base, Florida, recently met with the local county’s Emergency Operations Center. The meeting worked on developing seamless cooperation between the two groups to...

House, Senate Block Iran War Restrictions

House, Senate Block Iran War Restrictions

Republican Congressional leaders this week blocked resolutions that would have limited military action in Iran without congressional approval. Both chambers voted narrowly –  and mostly along party lines – not to restrict the administration’s actions in Operation Epic...

PAST STORIES

Snap of the Week

Coast Guard Cutter Blacktip sails into position during a training exercise for Arctic Edge 2026 near Valdez, Alaska Feb. 27.  Coast Guard photo by...

read more