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Magellan Teams Up with State of Illinois to Help Veterans
Magellan is proud to collaborate with the State of Illinois in a first-of-its-kind program to help Illinois veterans receive the behavioral health services they need. The Illinois Warrior Assistance Program (IWAP) was launched in January as a pilot program designed help underserved Illinois veterans who may be suffering from Traumatic Brain Injury (TBI) or Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD).
Screening and Help for PTSD and TBI
Through the IWAP, eligible Illinois veterans have 24-hour access to Magellan clinicians through a toll-free helpline. The Magellan clinicians screen for PTSD and TBI. If the screen is positive for TBI, the veteran is referred to a medical provider for further diagnosis and treatment. Veterans screening positive for PTSD are referred to Magellan network providers who specialize in treating PTSD. Magellan clinicians also assist Illinois veterans in accessing additional local resources and connecting with their local Veteran Services Officer (VSO) to access other benefits to which they may be entitled. Another integral part of the IWAP is the website, www.illinoiswarrior.com. This Web site offers veterans and their families information and resources on TBI and PTSD.
The Need for the IWAP Was Clear
With improvised explosive devices as the enemy’s weapon of choice, TBI and PTSD have become the signature wounds of the wars in Afghanistan and Iraq. Yet, the Army Surgeon General’s Task Force on Traumatic Brain Injury report released earlier this year acknowledges major gaps in the system when it comes to identifying and treating TBI. Coupled with the fact that military personnel often are hesitant to seek help for TBI- or PTSD-related issues due to the stigma associated with these conditions, many servicemen and women may be suffering, but not seeking help. The IWAP offers veterans a confidential, safe alternative for receiving needed services from a source that is not connected to any branch of the U.S. Armed Forces or the U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs.
Magellan is honored to be able to direct our more than 30 years of behavioral health care experience toward improving the well-being of those who risk their lives in service to our nation.