New Mexico Governor Bill Richardson Proposes Expansion of PTSD Treatment for Veterans

October 25, 2007 -- Santa Fe – New Mexico Governor Bill Richardson today announced his proposal to expand treatment for veterans and their families suffering from post traumatic stress disorder or PTSD.

At the request of Governor Richardson last fall, a team led by the Governor’s Behavioral Health Czar, Linda Roebuck, has been meeting to improve coordination of behavioral health services for military personnel in New Mexico.

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Based on the team’s recommendation the Governor is asking for funding during the 2008 Legislative session to expand a pilot program to serve veterans and their families across the state.

“I am calling on the legislature to fund $1.5 million to expand a collaborative effort between the state, the federal VA system and private behavioral health providers currently being piloted in Sandoval County. This pilot program addresses the effects of PTSD for veterans and their families. As more and more veterans return from Iraq and Afghanistan, this vital service must be expanded,” said Governor Richardson.

The Sandoval County pilot program began October 1, 2007. It links behavioral health and other critical support to veterans and family members by providing screening, early intervention, and services regardless of their ability to pay for services, their involvement in any other treatment program, or whether they are currently covered by any type of health coverage or insurance plan.

The expansion funding will provide salaries for clinical and support staff, training and outreach.

Source: New Mexico Governor