[Congressional Record Volume 159, Number 53 (Thursday, April 18, 2013)]
[House]
[Page H2128]
From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov]




       SERVICEMEMBERS' TELEMEDICINE AND E-HEALTH PORTABILITY ACT

  (Mr. THOMPSON of Pennsylvania asked and was given permission to 
address the House for 1 minute and to revise and extend his remarks.)
  Mr. THOMPSON of Pennsylvania. Mr. Speaker, in the debate over the 
terrible acts of violence that have been committed upon innocent men, 
women, and children, there is frequently one common issue, that of 
mental health.
  As we all know, the profiles of the perpetrators in many of the 
recent acts of mass violence had histories of mental health illness. 
Deaths from suicide as well obviously have significant mental health 
implications.
  The access barriers to mental health services and the stigma 
associated with seeking help are significant. The safety of individuals 
living with these potentially disturbing behaviors, family members and 
surrounding communities, deserves a more robust mental health system 
responsive to these issues.
  Now I'm proud to be the author of one of the only new laws in recent 
years to expand access to mental health services and reduce the stigma 
of seeking help. The STEP Act, or the Servicemembers' Telemedicine and 
E-Health Portability Act, expands access to care in a confidential 
manner, through telemedicine.
  While the STEP Act serves only our Active Duty, Reserve and Guard, it 
provides a template that can be expanded to all those living with 
mental health issues.

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