New York State has begun implementing a long-delayed law aimed at improving suicide prevention efforts for veterans.
The Department of Health has finalized and distributed a reporting form that allows coroners and medical examiners to document suspected veteran suicides and submit the information to the State Division of Veterans’ Services.
The move activates a law sponsored by State Senator Pam Helming in 2019 and signed in 2021. The legislation requires counties to report veteran suicide cases so the state can analyze trends and publish regular reports.
However, the law had gone largely unenforced because the required reporting form had never been created.
After concerns were raised by the Finger Lakes Veterans Advocacy Council, Helming pressed state officials to act, sending letters and meeting with administration leaders.
“When it comes to veteran suicide, delays cost lives,” Helming said.
Veteran organizations say the new system will improve coordination among state agencies, county officials, and community groups, including services connected to the Canandaigua VA.
“The Finger Lakes Veterans Advocacy Council and Veterans across New York State appreciate the creation of this important means of collecting, analyzing, and trending veteran suicide data in a timely manner in the Finger Lakes region and across the state. This is critical for the development and direction of a successful suicide-prevention plan. As Chairman of the Finger Lakes Veterans Advocacy Council, Jim Wideman was vital in this process of gathering statistics for veteran suicide prevention. He has supported our efforts consistently over the years, keeping this on our agenda and reaching out to others who could help us move forward,” said Wayne Thompson, Finger Lakes Veterans Advocacy Council.
Thompson added, “In addition, we would like to recognize Dr. Stephanie Gamble of the VA Suicide Prevention Center of Excellence for her continuous leadership, support, and assistance in this vital endeavor. We are also very appreciative of Terry Haskin, NP, Ontario County Coroner, for her assistance in bringing this process to fruition. We thank Senator Helming for her leadership and support as well. This will hopefully turn out to be a model for other states to use.”
According to the U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs, about 17 veterans die by suicide each day nationwide. Supporters say improved data will help identify warning signs and strengthen prevention programs.
For veterans or family members in crisis, help is available through the Veterans Crisis Line at 1-800-273-8255 (Press 1) or by texting 838255.
