February 16, 2000 - Baker Announces New Guidelines for PTSD

VAC announced several new measures to solidify a comprehensive approach to working with clients suffering with Post Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD) and other similar conditions. Specialized policy and guidelines and business processes will improve our ability to identify and evaluate the special needs of PTSD clients and their families. With the establishment of the VAC Post Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD) Committee, there has been considerable Head Office, Regional and District Office input and consultation on how best to support staff in responding to the specific needs of these clients and their families. Activities include a revision of the Table of Disabilities, which is provided for in the Pension Act and provides the basis for the extent of pensioned disability - and in turn, the rate of the pension to be paid - as well as new tools to assist staff in serving clients with PTSD and other similar conditions. PTSD and other disorders affect the whole family. Family needs must also be taken into consideration when providing service and treatment to the client. As well, health care benefits and services will be provided in a more holistic manner.

A number of improvements are being implemented immediately, including:

Assessment Guidelines - Table of Disabilities

A new assessment table entitled "Stress and Anxiety Disorders" is being added to the Table of Disabilities. New and more comprehensive assessment criteria for PTSD, which better reflect and assess the effects of exposure to stress on members of the Canadian Forces and other personnel i.e. Post Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD) and other similar disorders will help improve the consistency and quality of decision-making.

Changes to the Disability Pension Entitlement and Reassessment Process

A dedicated Head Office team of Pension Adjudicators, including a medical specialist in PTSD, will render decisions on all first level and Departmental review claims and reassessments for all psychiatric conditions.

Diagnosis and Reporting Guidelines for Psychiatric Disabilities

Given the complex diagnostic and medical evidence issues facing the VAC disability pension program with respect to PTSD and other such conditions, Diagnosis and Reporting Guidelines for Psychiatric Disabilities, with an accompanying assessment worksheet, were developed to facilitate the gathering of the required psychiatric information.

Disability Pensions and Health Care Protocol

A new Disability Pensions and Health Care Protocol for the management and adjudication of PTSD and other related disorders will also be implemented to help ensure timely, responsive, seamless and comprehensive services and interventions to clients with PTSD and other similar disorders.

New processes for the award of health care benefits will ensure that the client's PTSD condition and related conditions that negatively impact on his or her health are considered. As well, an increasing focus will be placed on ensuring that comprehensive treatment plans are prepared and regularly updated for these clients.

Disability Pensions and Health Care Information Sheet for Clients with Psychiatric Disabilities

The Disability Pensions and Health Care Information Sheet for Clients with Psychiatric Disabilities was developed specifically for clients who have PTSD or other such illnesses. It helps us explain to them, or to members of their families, what services and benefits they can expect from VAC and how VAC can help meet their needs.