Thank you, Mr. Chairman:

The physical and mental demands of military service including exposure to combat trauma and balancing both military and family responsibilities make those who bravely defend our freedoms at a higher risk for developing substance use disorders. 

I am very concerned about recent reports showing substance use disorders may be rising, particularly among younger veterans, and that many of these veterans suffering with substance use disorders also have other co-occurring mental health problems.

In recent years, the VA has made progress in screening veterans and expanding treatment programs for substance use disorders. 

Still, the stigma associated with the substance use disorders and limited access to comprehensive treatment in many rural areas, keep veterans, especially those with co-occurring disorders, from getting the help and care they need.

Substance use disorders can be treated and recovery is possible.  That is why it is critically important that we understand the nature of substance use disorder among our veterans and effectively break the barriers that prevent them from obtaining treatment services. 

Chairman Michaud and I have joined in a bipartisan effort in introducing the Veterans Substance Use Prevention and Treatment Act of 2008.

Our bill, H.R. 5554, would require each VA medical facility to provide ready access to comprehensive care for substance use disorders.  Screening would be required in all settings, including primary care.  Detoxification, intensive outpatient care, relapse prevention services, residential treatment, peer-to-peer counseling and marital and family counseling would be among the required services.

The legislation will also direct VA to conduct a pilot program for internet-based substance use disorder treatment for veterans of Operations Iraqi Freedom and Enduring Freedom (OIF/OEF). 

This new generation of veterans is comfortable with computer technology.  This program will allow VA to utilize new and innovate ways to reach those in need and hopefully help overcome the stigma that can be a large barrier to care for many military personnel. 

Substance use disorders complicated by co-occurring mental illnesses are difficult to treat.  Underscoring the need for VA to focus on early detection, the dissemination of best practices and implementing a full continuum of care throughout the VA system.

I look forward to hearing from our witnesses today and working together to support effective treatment and empowering those veterans who develop a substance use disorder to overcome their condition and lead productive lives.

I want to thank everyone that is here today for taking the time to be a part of this important hearing and yield back the balance of my time.