Under a new policy from Biden's administration, veterans suffering from suicidal tendencies will be able to access emergency care at any Department of Veterans Administration facility or private facility.
Starting next week, almost 18 million veterans will be able to receive free emergency healthcare. They can expect to receive inpatient or outpatient care for up to 30 days.
"According to Denis McDonough, the Secretary of Veterans Affairs, the new policy will allow those experiencing suicidal tendencies to receive the emergency healthcare they need regardless of their location. It's the right thing to do for Veterans, and it will save their lives."
Currently, the VA provides emergency care for those suffering from suicidal tendencies. Under the new policy, veterans will no longer have to pay any co-pays or fees for this service. This will allow more people to receive the care they need.
Some of the eligible individuals include former members of the armed forces who were victims of sexual harassment or physical assault while they were serving.
The goal of the new policy is to help prevent veterans from committing suicide. Last year, the agency established a 24-hour crisis support line for those who want to speak with a mental health professional.
According to a report released in 2022, the number of suicides among veterans decreased significantly in 2020.
The preceding is a summary of an article that originally appeared on Washington Examiner.
