Get Full Government Meeting Transcripts, Videos, & Alerts Forever!
Vermont veterans cite gaps in mental health, dental and VA access; experts suggest policy, clinic and mobile solutions
Summary
Veterans and health officials told lawmakers TRICARE network shortages, VA clinic capacity and lack of local dental providers are limiting care in Vermont; witnesses recommended prioritizing veterans for state services, mobile dental clinics, voucher programs, and stronger TRICARE/VA coordination.
Veterans, clinicians and advocates told a joint House-Senate hearing that mental health and dental care access remain major barriers for service members, their families and veterans in Vermont.
Dr. Jennifer Stevenson, who manages the Office for Primary Prevention of Interpersonal Violence and Self Harm in the Vermont National Guard, described long waits and limited provider networks for TRICARE beneficiaries and said those gaps create readiness and public health risks. ‘‘Many providers don't accept [TRICARE] due to low reimbursement rates,…
Already have an account? Log in
Subscribe to keep reading
Unlock the rest of this article — and every article on Citizen Portal.
- Unlimited articles
- AI-powered breakdowns of topics, speakers, decisions, and budgets
- Instant alerts when your location has a new meeting
- Follow topics and more locations
- 1,000 AI Insights / month, plus AI Chat
