Veterans who were discharged in any way other than dishonorably who are experiencing a suicidal crisis can go to any mental healthcare facility for no-cost treatment. Veterans do not need to be enrolled in the VA system to use this benefit.

The act allows the VA to:

• Provide, pay for, or reimburse for treatment of eligible individuals’ emergency suicide care, transportation costs and follow-up care at a VA or non-VA facility for up to 30 days of inpatient care and 90 days of outpatient care.

• Make appropriate referrals for care following the period of emergency suicide care.