When a Veteran is in crisis, every second counts — and clear information can make all the difference. The COMPACT Act is designed to ensure Veterans receive emergency suicide-related care at no cost, whether at a VA or non-VA facility. The goal is simple: get the Veteran safe, stabilized, and connected to ongoing care without worrying about the bill.
Under Section 201 of the COMPACT Act, eligible individuals—including Veterans not enrolled in VA health care—may receive up to 30 days of inpatient or crisis residential care and up to 90 days of outpatient mental health care following an acute suicidal crisis. Medical care directly related to that crisis is also covered, and emergency transportation is included.
That broad eligibility is intentional. Veterans with Other Than Honorable discharges, those affected by military sexual trauma, and others who meet statutory criteria can qualify for this care. In the moment of crisis, barriers need to come down—not up.
If a Veteran is experiencing an acute suicidal crisis, they should call 911 or go to the nearest emergency room—VA or non-VA. Enrollment in VA health care is not required. After receiving care, the VA must be notified within 72 hours so payment and care coordination can begin. Notification can be made by the Veteran, a loved one, or the treating facility: 1-844-724-7842 or emergencycarereporting.communitycare.va.gov.
This article isn’t only for Veterans—it’s also for clinics, hospitals, and emergency departments across Lake County and Northeast Minnesota. Many community providers are still unfamiliar with the COMPACT Act, which can lead to coding errors, denied claims, or Veterans receiving frightening bills for care they expected to be covered.
If your facility provides emergency behavioral health services, please take a moment to review the COMPACT Act guidelines and ensure your billing staff knows how to submit the care episode to VA. A quick call to the Minneapolis VA’s COMPACT Act Coordinator can also prevent future headaches: 612-467-2903.
If a Veteran receives a bill, then do not panic. Call the Minneapolis VA Patient Advocate Office at 612-467-2106. They can initiate a review and correct billing issues.
The COMPACT Act is a powerful tool, but like any benefit, its effectiveness depends on awareness and proper use. Veterans, families, first responders, and health care teams all play a role in ensuring crisis care is delivered smoothly and without added trauma.
If you have questions about the COMPACT Act or any VA benefit, please contact your CVSO.
Brad Anderson and Melissa Crandall are the Lake County Veterans Service Officers and can be reached at 218.834.8326 or cvso@co.lake.mn.us.
Karen Christianson is the Cook County Veterans Service Officer and can be reached at 218.387.3639, or karen.christianson@co.cook.mn.us.
