PTSD is no joke. PTSD has been linked to the development of other serious mental health conditions. These conditions are depression, anxiety, and substance abuse disorders. PTSD can also lead to suicide or alcohol-related deaths. It happens to veterans who were exposed to traumatic events during their service in the military. Fortunately, the Maryland Department of Health has created a set of guidelines that will help PTSD evaluations in 2021. 

Currently, PTSD evaluations only require that the patient is experiencing PTSD symptoms. Also if one has a history of trauma exposure. In 2021 PTSD evaluations, may also be based on how much stress an individual can handle, their coping skills, personality traits. That is to mean one's mental health issues other than PTSD, medical conditions, and the evaluation process.

By clarifying what a PTSD diagnosis means, Maryland is making it easier for patients to receive treatment through insurance companies. In addition, they are changing how PTSD diagnostic criteria are processed going forward. The purpose of this change is to help people better understand PTSD diagnoses. Thereafter, it will then allow them access to more effective treatments. This will help PTSD patients live fuller, happier lives.

PTSD evaluations in Maryland are scheduled to change as of 2021. PTSD evaluations will be conducted by a group that includes psychiatrists, psychologists, and social workers. All these have been trained in PTSD evaluation protocols. The goal is for these professionals from different disciplines to work together. They will patients all through the PTSD diagnosis process with patients experiencing PTSD symptoms. While PTSD can affect many people, not everyone is eligible to receive benefits for their condition. To begin with, one needs to file a claim. It ensures that your situation meets all legal requirements set forth by law. When filing an appeal you have to provide a valid PTSD diagnosis from a doctor or mental health professional. In addition to meeting all legal requirements, there is a need to show the extent of your PTSD symptoms. It will help them, know how this can affect your daily life.

The first step begins on January 15th, 2020 when all PTSD evaluations will be conducted by the PTSD team. The current system involves PTSD consultations. It is to be completed by a mental health professional who is not an expert in PTSD diagnosis or treatment.

The second step begins on January 15th, 2021 when PTSD-specific psychotherapy must be provided. It should be done prior to completion of any PTSD evaluation in Maryland. Currently, general forms of PTSD treatment are often utilized. This may not include PTSD-specific psychotherapy.

The final step begins on January 15th, 2022 when PTSD evaluations will be conducted by providers. These are professionals who have completed postdoctoral training in PTSD diagnosis and management. Today's process involves only psychiatrists or psychologists completing PTSD evaluation protocols. one must be involved after they finish medical school or graduate school (respectively). PTSD therapists in Maryland today are not required to have any kind of postdoctoral training.

Conclusion

PTSD evaluations in Maryland will change as of 2021. It will ensure better PTSD diagnosis and treatment for residents throughout the state. PTSD-specific psychotherapy must be provided prior, with all PTSD evaluations conducted by a team. It includes the psychiatrists, psychologists, and social workers who have been trained in PTSD evaluation protocols. Finally, PTSD evaluations will be conducted by providers with postdoctoral training in PTSD diagnosis and management to ensure better care for those suffering from PTSD symptoms as of 2021.