DOD Health, Actions Needed to Ensure Post-traumatic Stress Disorder and Traumatic Brain Injury Are Considered in Misconduct SeparationsDOD Health, Actions Needed to Ensure Post-traumatic Stress Disorder and Traumatic Brain Injury Are Considered in Misconduct Separations

This report examines (1) the number of servicemembers separated for misconduct who were diagnosed with PTSD, TBI, or certain other conditions and were potentially ineligible for VA benefits and services; (2) the extent to which military services' policies to address the impact of PTSD and TBI on separations for misconduct are consistent with DOD's policies; (3) the extent to which Army and Marine Corps have adhered to their policies; and (4) the extent to which DOD, Army, and Marine Corps monitor adherence to the policies. GAO is making five recommendations, including that DOD direct the Air Force and Navy to address inconsistencies in their screening and training policies and ensure that the military services monitor adherence to their screening, training, and counseling policies.