Fort Drum commanders defend soldier treatment

[unhappycamper]

Fort Drum commanders defend soldier treatment
The Associated Press
Posted : Thursday Feb 14, 2008 17:24:58 EST

FORT DRUM, N.Y. — A critical report on the mental health care provided at the Army’s Fort Drum highlighted previously identified shortcomings and incorrectly characterized other facets of support being provided to soldiers, 10th Mountain Division officials said Thursday.

The report released Wednesday by the Washington, D.C.-based Veterans for America cited problems with understaffing, a reliance on self-reporting of mental health problems and a prevailing attitude at the company level that treats mental health issues in an atmosphere of secrecy, shame and doubt.

It also said that some soldiers had to wait up to two months before they were seen by doctors.

“Are our processes as effective as we would like? No, but we’re working hard, and we remain fully committed as an Army and post to address our soldiers and family needs,” said Maj. Gen. Michael Oates, the division commander. “Helping our soldiers overcome the challenges of continued service in a time of war remains one of our top priorities.”

Among its recommendations, the report urged Fort Drum to establish more proactive mental health screening and treatment capabilities.


Rest of article at: http://www.armytimes.com/news/2008/02/ap_drummental_080214/

[acmavm]

1. Nice to know that they're 'working hard' on this.

Sheesh! That has become the new catch-phrase to justify any incompetence or criminality thanks to Chimpy.