1. Mandatory Mental Health Screening During Transition

Problem: Nearly 50% of veterans who die by suicide had no recent contact with the VA.
Reform Proposal: Require comprehensive mental health assessments at discharge, with follow-ups at 3, 6, and 12 months post-transition to civilian life.
Goal: Catch early signs of PTSD, depression, or suicidal ideation during the high-risk reintegration period.

2. VA–Community Provider Integration

Problem: Veterans in rural areas often live 30–60+ miles from the nearest VA clinic and face long wait times.
Reform Proposal: Expand the VA’s Community Care Network to permanently integrate private-sector providers with vet-specific training and funding pipelines.
Goal: Ensure timely access to care close to home, particularly for mental health, women’s health, and specialty care.

3. Federal Suicide Prevention Protocols Across All VA Facilities

Problem: Practices for suicide prevention vary by VA region.
Reform Proposal: Implement uniform evidence-based protocols for suicide risk assessment and crisis intervention.
Goal: Create consistency and accountability in how veterans at risk are identified and supported.

4. Funding Transparency and Measurable Outcomes

Problem: While VA healthcare funding exceeds $369 billion, there’s a lack of clarity on how funding impacts care delivery.
Reform Proposal: Introduce public-facing funding dashboards and outcome metrics for every major VA initiative.
Goal: Equip policymakers and the public with data to assess effectiveness and guide appropriations.

5. Peer Support & Veteran Navigation Programs

Problem: Veterans often feel disconnected from the VA system and unaware of their benefits.
Reform Proposal: Fund trained peer navigators—veterans helping veterans—at all major transition hubs, clinics, and community events.
Goal: Boost enrollment, trust, and early treatment uptake through human connection and guidance.

6. Rural and Underserved Area Outreach Grants

Problem: Remote communities lack the infrastructure to meet veteran health needs.
Reform Proposal: Offer state-based grants to expand mobile clinics, telehealth, and mental health pilots in underserved areas.
Goal: Close service deserts and reduce disparities in care access.

Each of these reforms is more than just a policy ask—they’re rooted in stories, numbers, and lives.