Quick Facts:     The new rule will simplify and streamline the processing of PTSD claims, reducing the time and frustration traditionally involved when Veterans apply for disability compensation for PTSD and access for mental health care. Veterans who do not otherwise meet eligibility requirements for enrollment in the VA health care system cannot receive mental health treatment at a VA facility without a disability rating from VA. This new rule is for Veterans of any era. This decision is consistent with recent Institute of Medicine studies of scientific data.

The new rule will apply to claims: received by VA on or after July 13, 2010; received before July 13, 2010 but not yet decided by a VA regional office; appealed to the Board of Veterans' Appeals on or after July 13, 2010; appealed to the Board before July 13, 2010, but not yet decided by the Board; and pending before VA on or after July 13, 2010, because the Court of Appeals for Veterans Claims vacated a Board decision and remanded for re-adjudication.

Not all combat wounds are visible.  For decades, VA has led the health-care community in treating and researching the psychological wounds of war, especially PTSD. Since the start of combat in Iraq and Afghanistan, VA has dramatically expanded the number of its mental health professionals to care for returning Veterans, including 1,000 just last year alone. VA will continue its world-class research program and its aggressive outreach to returning Veterans.  The Department is committed to continuing to improve its processes to meet the needs of our newest generation of heroes.

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