On Veterans Day, we at Porch Light Health take a moment to express our deepest gratitude to the men and women who have served our nation. Your bravery and sacrifices have not gone unnoticed. In honor of this special day, we want to reaffirm our commitment to the well-being of our veterans, especially those who face the challenging journey of overcoming addiction.
Porch Light Health, with our presence in Colorado and New Mexico, is proud to accept TriWest and TRICARE Insurance, ensuring that the heroes who protected our nation can access the quality addiction treatment services they deserve.
In the realm of veterans’ health, understanding the prevalence and impact of Substance Use Disorders (SUDs) is crucial. The information gleaned from various studies and surveys provides a detailed picture of how SUDs affect both active-duty personnel and veterans.
Deployment, a unique military culture, and the transition to civilian life contribute to the risk of SUDs among service members. While active-duty personnel generally show low illicit drug use rates, unhealthy drinking, smoking initiation, and prescription drug misuse are concerns. It’s noteworthy that binge drinking rates among this group are notably higher than in the general population.
For veterans, the scenario shifts slightly. Over 10% of veterans are diagnosed with SUDs, a figure slightly higher than the general populace. Young male veterans aged 18-25 show notably higher rates of SUDs compared to their civilian peers. Critical issues like pain, suicide risk, trauma, and homelessness greatly impact this population in relation to substance use.
Veterans with SUDs frequently face co-occurring mental health disorders like PTSD, depression, and anxiety. The intersection of these conditions with SUDs complicates the treatment landscape. Additionally, suicide rates among active-duty military and veterans exceed those in the general population, with substance use often preceding suicidal behavior.
Recognizing these challenges, the military and VA have initiated various strategies, including the Opioid Safety Initiative, expansion of outpatient treatment services, and the National Strategy for Preventing Veteran Suicide. These initiatives aim to reduce the prevalence of SUDs, enhance treatment access, and mitigate associated risks like suicide and homelessness among veterans.
At Porch Light Health, we are acutely aware of these statistics and the challenges faced by our veterans. Our treatment programs are designed to address the unique needs of this population, providing comprehensive care that encompasses both substance use and co-occurring mental health disorders. As we honor our veterans this Veterans Day, we renew our commitment to supporting them in their journey toward recovery and a healthier, fulfilling life.
Since 1996, TriWest Healthcare Alliance has been dedicated to serving the healthcare needs of our nation’s military and veteran communities. With a mission deeply aligned with our own, TriWest continues to stand out by providing convenient and affordable healthcare—a right that every veteran has earned.
TriWest Healthcare Alliance functions as an integral third-party administrator for the Veterans Affairs (VA) Community Care Network (CCN), ensuring that veterans within regions 4 and 5 (the American West and Alaska) who meet specific eligibility criteria have access to the care they need when they need it. It’s crucial to note that while TriWest extends its services to eligible veterans, their families are not included under this provision.
To align with the VA’s CCN standards, six critical eligibility criteria have been established. A veteran must satisfy at least one of these benchmarks to qualify for services facilitated by TriWest. Those six criteria are:
The eligibility for community care and the valuable services that TriWest offers depend heavily on an individual’s particular health needs and circumstances. However, it is a fundamental requirement for any veteran to be enrolled in VA healthcare or to be eligible for VA healthcare to avail themselves of these services. The determination of eligibility to use TriWest services is, as emphasized, contingent upon approval by a VA provider.
These six criteria are meticulously designed to ensure that veterans receive the right care at the right time and in the right setting through the Community Care Network managed by TriWest. Veterans seeking to understand if they meet these criteria should consult with a VA provider to navigate this process. At Porch Light Health, we stand ready to assist our veterans in understanding these criteria and in coordinating with VA healthcare providers to facilitate seamless access to the treatments and services they need and deserve.
In addition to acknowledging the importance of the TriWest Healthcare Alliance in supporting our veterans, it’s equally vital to highlight TRICARE Health Insurance. TRICARE is a dedicated healthcare program that offers comprehensive medical coverage to both active and retired service members, as well as their families.
Originally known as the Civilian Health and Medical Program of the Uniformed Services, TRICARE has evolved to become a cornerstone in providing health benefits to the military community. This program includes a range of medical and dental coverage options, along with extensive behavioral health support, recognizing the diverse healthcare needs of service members and their families.
Managed by the United States Defense Health Agency or Military Health System, TRICARE’s mission is to deliver exceptional medical benefits to those who have dedicated their lives to serving our country. This commitment extends to their family members, ensuring that the health and well-being of the entire military community are prioritized.
At Porch Light Health, we understand the importance of comprehensive behavioral health services for our military families. TRICARE’s inclusion of behavioral health coverage is crucial in addressing the wide spectrum of mental health and substance use challenges that service members and their families may face. Our team is experienced in navigating TRICARE’s coverage options, ensuring that our clients receive the best possible care tailored to their individual needs.
On this Veterans Day, we extend our heartfelt gratitude to all who have served and continue to serve, as well as their families. We are here to support you through your journey to recovery and wellness, backed by the comprehensive coverage provided by TRICARE Health Insurance.
For more information about how Porch Light Health collaborates with TRICARE to support your health and recovery needs, please reach out to us. Together, we strive to honor your service with our dedicated care.
Porch Light Health offers an inclusive range of services for veterans grappling with substance use disorders. Inspired by the comprehensive care options provided through the Veterans Authority, our offerings are designed to meet the unique needs of each individual seeking our help.
Our treatment modalities include:
In recognition of the profound sacrifices made by our veterans and the challenges they may face upon returning to civilian life, it’s crucial to highlight the support systems in place for those in need. The Veterans Crisis Line is a testament to this support, providing a lifeline for veterans experiencing a crisis.
If you are a veteran facing a crisis or you’re concerned about one, the Veterans Crisis Line is ready to connect you with caring, qualified professionals from the VA. Many of these responders share a common bond with you, having served in the military themselves. They understand the unique challenges that come with transitioning from service to civilian life and are trained to provide support in your time of need. You can reach out through any of the following means:
At Porch Light Health, we understand the immense value of mental health services for veterans. It is our pledge to work in tandem with the VA’s initiatives, ensuring that every veteran who reaches out to us is aware of and has access to these critical resources. On this Veterans Day, we not only honor your service but also reaffirm our dedication to your mental well-being and crisis support.
Remember, reaching out is a sign of strength. Our veterans have never backed down from a challenge, and taking the step to ask for help is no different. We encourage you to use these resources whenever you need them, and we are here to guide you through the process of getting the help you deserve.
On this Veterans Day, we want to emphasize our commitment not just to quality care but to the continued support and treatment of our veterans. We believe that addressing substance use disorder with comprehensive care is fundamental to honoring the service of our veterans.
Our pledge is to provide a sanctuary of healing for veterans, with respect to their military service and sensitivity to their unique needs. Through our acceptance of TriWest Insurance, we open our doors wide to those in the veteran community seeking help in their fight against addiction.
To all our veterans, Porch Light Health salutes you. On this Veterans Day and every day, we stand ready to support you on the road to recovery. You’ve taken care of us; now let us take care of you.
Porch Light Health has over 60 treatment locations throughout Colorado and New Mexico. Find a clinic near you to start receiving support. For more information about our services or to speak with an addiction treatment specialist, please feel free to call us at 866-394-6123. Together, we can walk the path of recovery.
