MST Claims Coordination Act
Dec 27, 2022
Statute: 136 Stat. 4387
Became law: Dec 27, 2022
Dec 27, 2022
Statute: 136 Stat. 4387
Became law: Dec 27, 2022
Summary
Makes the VA give mental health resources and support information to veterans when they file claims for military sexual trauma.
What problem does this solve?
Veterans filing claims for military sexual trauma often face stressful events without immediate access to mental health support. This law requires the VA to proactively provide support resources and coordinate care before these difficult moments.
What does this law do?
Provides required support materials
Requires the VA to give veterans with MST claims outreach letters, Veterans Crisis Line information, and details on how to get mental health care during their claims process.
Creates an automatic notification system
Directs the VA benefits office to automatically notify the VA health office before a veteran has a medical exam or hearing for their MST claim, if the veteran agrees.
Who does this affect?
- Veterans who have experienced military sexual trauma
What is the real world impact?
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Provides proactive mental health support
Ensures veterans going through the difficult process of filing an MST claim receive timely information about mental health resources, like the Veterans Crisis Line, to help prevent further trauma.
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Improves internal VA communication
Forces the two main branches of the VA, health (VHA) and benefits (VBA), to work together, creating a system where health providers are aware when a veteran is facing a stressful part of their benefits claim.
When does this start?
The changes required by this law must be put into place no later than 18 months after it was signed on December 27, 2022.