Posted by just plain jane on October 24, 2004, at 9:26:02
In reply to Veterans coverage » just plain jane, posted by badhaircut on October 24, 2004, at 7:47:31
bhc
I am not sure.
In my area the nearest VA facilities with MH Ts are a hundred miles away. So, I drive two hours to get there. Where I live (in the boondocks) that is no big deal.
My advice to you is to get hold of your local VA Rep and make an appointment to see a VA health care screener. I believe this is the first step. The VA Rep does not need to know any details of your situation. The screener does, and will have a long list of questions and, if any good at his job, will discuss things with you so his report will be informative. Some questions will pertain to your financial situation.
The screener was the one who set me up for an appointment with my first VA T. Had I indicated I felt a need to see the Pdoc first, the screener would have accomodated me with an appt to see the Pdoc. Of course, this will all be subject to what kind of person the screener you deal with is.
He would also be the one to ask first about whether outside MH professionals are ever used in your area. I've found, generally, veterans deal with VA professionals.
Many of the VA professionals also have outside practices. Everyone I've dealt with has been as competent, or more so, as the multitude of non-VA MH professionals I've worked with.
The answer to your specific question, once again: I do not know if the VA will cover a veteran's MH care outside VA providers.
It'll take a little local homework to get your answers. Be persistent.
just plain jane
poster:just plain jane
thread:406220
URL: http://www.dr-bob.org/babble/psycho/20041016/msgs/406592.html