Presentation to the Senate Committee on Veteran Affairs and Border - PowerPoint PPT Presentation

Presentation to the Senate Committee on Veteran Affairs and Border Security Health and Human Services Commission Dr. Suzanna Hupp, Veteran Services February 15, 2017

Texas Veteran Population Second Largest Veteran Population in the Nation • In 2016, Texas had approximately 1.7 million veterans ranging in age from 17 to over 100 years old • Estimated 1,509,883 men and 173,526 women • Includes individuals who entered service in Texas, were stationed at a Texas installation and remained after discharge, or who moved to Texas post- discharge • The highest concentration of veterans are in Austin, Houston, Dallas/ Fort Worth, and San Antonio 2/ 15/ 2017 HHS Veterans Services 2

Texas Veteran Population 2/ 15/ 2017 HHS Veterans Services 3

HHSC Office of Veteran Services 1. Represents HHSC in the Texas Coordinating Council for Veteran Services and contributes to a biennial report 2. Collaborates with Texas Veteran Commission to provide information on HHSC services to Texas veterans 3. Serves as state team lead for a national policy initiative with the U.S. Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration for service members, veterans, and families 4. Provides education and awareness for Texas Department of Public Safety on communication with veterans 5. Collaborates with the U.S. Veterans Healthcare Administration to address issues or gaps in services, to include service delivery for veterans in Texas 2/ 15/ 2017 HHS Veterans Services 4

Texas Veterans Mobile App • In March 2014, HHSC launched the Texas Veterans mobile application (app) • The app is free for Texas veterans, active duty personnel, military families, and service providers • The app allows quick, easy, and portable access to crisis lines, online resources, personal connections with local veterans, and assistance with accessing services • As of January 2017, the Texas Veterans Mobile App had 18,205 downloads 2/ 15/ 2017 HHS Veterans Services 5

External Partnerships & Initiatives • Participate in the design and relaunch of the Texas Veterans Portal and continue to sit on the advisory committee • Participate as a member of Texas Suicide Prevention Council • Develop veteran and family retreats for Post Traumatic Stress • Consult with equine therapy programs on design and implementation for veteran mental and physical health needs • Assist with the establishment of veteran resource centers around Texas 2/ 15/ 2017 Office of Veterans Services 6