As of Jan. 17, all veterans can access emergency mental health care free of charge at any Department of Veterans Affairs or non-VA health care facility, regardless of whether they are enrolled in the VA health care system.

The new policy applies to all veterans with any separation status except a dishonorable discharge, regardless of whether they qualify for other VA medical services. Under this policy, the VA will either waive costs for care or — in cases of visits outside the VA system — provide reimbursements for emergency mental health care. Those costs include appointment fees, transportation costs and other related follow-up expenses.

 

Veterans experiencing a mental health emergency can contact the Veterans Crisis Line by calling 988 and pressing 1.  Veterans, service members or their family members can also text 838255 or visit veteranscrisisline.net for assistance.