| Public Laws 102-585, The Veterans Health Care Act of 1992 and the Veterans Health Program Extension Act of 1994 authorize the Department of Veterans Affairs (DVA) to provide priority counseling for military sexual trauma (MST) and related heath care services to eligible male and female veterans. The Veterans Millennium Health Care and Benefits Act, Public Law 106-117, extended DVA's authority to provide counseling and treatment for sexual trauma through December 31, 2004, and mandates that the existing program of sexual trauma care and services continue.
The Under Secretary for Health's Information Letter, IL-10-97-037, "Eligibility Criteria for VA Healthcare to Veterans Seeking Counseling or Treatment for Sexual Trauma" clarifies the DVA eligibility rules applicable to veterans seeking counseling or treatment for military sexual trauma.
The joint effort of DoD and Department of Veterans Affairs produced IB-164, A Summary of VA Benefits for National Guard and Reserve Personnel.
MST C&P Sexual Trauma
Code of Federal Regulations, Title 38, Volume 1 (38 CFR17.37) revised July 1, 2001, provides guidance on provision of hospital and outpatient care to veterans where enrollment is not required. Part 17, (i) addresses sexual trauma.
Note: A General Counsel Opinion dated July 1, 1997, is cited. It is important to note under section 2 c. that veterans who do not meet the minimum length of service requirements are still eligible for treatment of military sexual trauma and related services. It should also be noted that these veterans are listed as "ineligible" or "humanitarian" within the veteran information data system even though the person is receiving MST counseling and treatment.
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