Sec. 781. Review and update of policy relating to command notification process and reduction of mental health stigma
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/bill/117/hr/7900/eh/section-781A research copy — for the controlling text, always check the official state or federal source. Not legal advice.
Not later than October 1, 2023, the Secretary of Defense, in coordination with the Secretaries of the military departments, shall review and update the Department of Defense Instruction 6490.08, titled Command Notification Requirements to Dispel Stigma in Providing Mental Health Care to Service Members , or any successor instruction. In carrying out the review and update of the instruction under paragraph (1), the Secretary shall ensure the updated version— provides health care providers with clear guidance on the process and timeline for making a required command notification; provides for the protection of the privacy of mental health information shared through such notification process, including by— restricting access to such information to personnel for whom such specific knowledge is necessary for the conduct of official duties; requiring that military commanders, and any other personnel with access to such information, treat such information as any other health information, including with respect to applicable privacy laws; and setting forth updated training requirements for military commanders on the treatment of such information; and directs military commanders to take steps to further reduce the stigma of mental health among members of the Armed Forces, including by promoting mental health care as equivalent to other types of health care.
Not later than April 1, 2023, the Secretary of Defense shall submit to the Committees on Armed Services of the House of Representatives and the Senate a report on the progress made towards the completion of the review and update under subsection (a).