By the Numbers - Jan. 12, 2015
1.3 million
The number of Service members (300,000) and dependents (1 million) who "are geographically remote for behavioral health care," according to a new study from the RAND Corporation -- Access to Behavioral Health Care for Geographically Remote Service Members and Dependents in the U.S. The report notes:
Approximately 80 percent of U.S. rural areas are classified as medically underserved—that is, areas that are lacking physicians, dentists, registered nurses, and other health professionals. Medically underserved areas often also have a shortage of psychiatrists, psychologists, and therapists. While military treatment facilities are sometimes located in remote areas, they do not reach all remote ser- vice members and their families.
And living more than 30 minutes from care, the report says, "hinders access."
The RAND researchers suggest these "3 Steps to Improved Access":
-
Set goals for improvement. (30 minutes as the maximum drive time, near-100% access for active component and increased access for National Guard/Reserve/military dependents.
-
Monitor the effectiveness of implementation (including increased use of technology).
- Explore program alternatives (e.g., telemental health, etc.)
1.3 million
The number of Service members (300,000) and dependents (1 million) who "are geographically remote for behavioral health care," according to a new study from the RAND Corporation -- Access to Behavioral Health Care for Geographically Remote Service Members and Dependents in the U.S. The report notes:
Approximately 80 percent of U.S. rural areas are classified as medically underserved—that is, areas that are lacking physicians, dentists, registered nurses, and other health professionals. Medically underserved areas often also have a shortage of psychiatrists, psychologists, and therapists. While military treatment facilities are sometimes located in remote areas, they do not reach all remote ser- vice members and their families.
And living more than 30 minutes from care, the report says, "hinders access."
The RAND researchers suggest these "3 Steps to Improved Access":
-
Set goals for improvement. (30 minutes as the maximum drive time, near-100% access for active component and increased access for National Guard/Reserve/military dependents.
-
Monitor the effectiveness of implementation (including increased use of technology).
- Explore program alternatives (e.g., telemental health, etc.)