The short answer
VA provides care for physical and mental health conditions related to military sexual trauma (MST) at no cost. You don't need a disability rating, proof that MST happened, or VA health care enrollment, and an Other Than Honorable discharge doesn't automatically rule you out. Start with the MST Coordinator at any VA medical center.
Who can get MST-related care?
Most Veterans and many former service members. VA's MST page says:
- No rating needed. You don't need a service-connected disability.
- No proof needed. You don't have to have reported the MST at the time or have other documentation.
- No enrollment needed. You can get MST-related care even if you aren't enrolled in VA health care.
- Discharge and length of service. Veterans and most former service members can get care, including those with an Other Than Honorable discharge or fewer than two years of service.
This care comes from 38 U.S.C. 1720D. Current service members may need a referral from the military for some services, and National Guard and Reserve members have separate criteria.
If you're in crisis right now, call 988 and press 1, or text 838255.
Does MST-related care cost anything?
No. VA says it provides free treatment for physical and mental health conditions related to MST. Under 38 CFR 17.108(e)(4), counseling and care for sexual trauma under 38 U.S.C. 1720D are exempt from VA outpatient copays.
That's separate from other care. Treatment for unrelated conditions may still carry the usual copays for your priority group.
How do I start?
- Contact the MST Coordinator at your nearest VA medical center. Every VA medical facility has one. They help you get connected to care.
- Tell a VA provider you already see. VA primary care and mental health providers are trained on MST.
- You don't have to say why when you register. You can just ask for a clinical evaluation.
- You can ask for a provider of a specific sex.
- Vet Centers also offer MST-related counseling. See Vet Centers vs. Community Care.
Can MST-related care be provided through Community Care?
It can, when the usual Community Care rules are met. If VA can't schedule your mental health care within 20 days and a 30-minute average drive, or if Community Care is in your best medical interest, VA can refer you to a community provider. See Mental Health Access Rules.
Two things to know:
- The benefit and the referral are different questions. Your right to free MST-related care comes from 38 U.S.C. 1720D. Whether it's delivered at VA or by a community provider depends on the Community Care rules.
- Enrollment may matter for Community Care. Routine Community Care requires being a covered Veteran, which usually means enrolled. If you're getting MST care without enrollment and want Community Care, ask whether you need to enroll.
Continuity and comfort can matter a lot in trauma care. If you already have a trusted community therapist, that's a best medical interest factor. See Keeping Your Current Therapist.
What if I'm denied care or Community Care?
Ask for the decision in writing. For a Community Care eligibility denial, you can appeal through VA's clinical appeals process, starting with your facility's Patient Advocate. See Appealing a Mental Health Community Care Denial.
Is MST care the same as filing a disability claim?
No. You can get MST-related care without filing a claim. A disability claim for an MST-related condition is a separate process with the Veterans Benefits Administration.