Our members have reported that psychological problems associated with their mastectomies are not adequately reflected in VA s rating of their condition. We have been told that they are given a psychiatric diagnosis, but no increase in compensation or rating is given to them. There is evidence that, though the psychological effect of mastectomies is recognized by the VA, and treatment can be accessed, there is a lack of standardization for inclusion of this mental health element in the rating of these individuals. We look forward to working with the VA on the revision of the present rating schedule to more adequately reflect the appropriate level of disability and improve the quality of life of these veterans. Since the beginning of the All Volunteer Force this nation has come to rely heavily on the Reserve and National Guard components of our Armed Forces.
Training is an essential part of mission readiness.
It is vital to the overall defense of our country. At this time in our nation s history, the contribution of these forces, both here and abroad, is immeasurable. If they are expected to lay down their lives in defense of this county, then they should be afforded the same standard and quality of care for injuries incurred while training for this mission as if the incident occurred on active duty. This issue that emerges is one related to care and treatment for those men and women of the Selective Reserve and National Guard who experience sexual trauma or assault while on training days. Although physical injury incurred while on training days in the Selective Reserves and National Guard is addressed by VA, sexual assault or trauma are not.