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  • Monday, February 03, 2014

    Legion Launches PTSD Survey, Urges Vets to Participate

    The American Legion is encouraging veterans with traumatic brain injury (TBI) or post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) to participate in its online survey during the month of February. The Legion is conducting the voluntary survey to gather information about the care and treatment received for the two conditions, including veterans’ experiences with complementary and alternative treatments.

    War Within graphic
    The Legion’s National Executive Committee authorized the survey as a follow-up to the organization’s report on TBI and PTSD, “The War Within,” released last September after more than three years of research.

    “The American Legion is very concerned by the unprecedented number of veterans who suffer from these two conditions,” said William Detweiler, chairman of the Legion’s permanent committee on TBI and PTSD. “We advocate the adoption of all effective treatments and cures, including alternatives being used in the private sector.”

    Detweiler said the Legion survey, which ends on Feb. 28, is entirely confidential. “Although we’re also requesting demographic data such as age, branch of service, and where veterans have received treatment, this information won’t be used to identify individuals who complete the survey.”

    Greenberg said DRC will store survey results securely and eventually destroy them, in accordance with industry standards.

    Findings from the survey, Detweiler said, will be shared with federal agencies, the health-care industry and the media. “By completing this survey, veterans across America will have the opportunity to tell their stories about the treatment they have received for PTSD and traumatic brain injuries. Their responses will inform The American Legion’s position on the care and treatment for these injuries so that it can advocate effectively for its members.”

    Click here to take The American Legion’s survey.