Transforming Data to Save Veterans' Lives

The mental health and well-being of veterans remain a critical public health concern. More than 120,000 veterans have died by suicide since 2001. It is the second leading cause of death for post-9/11 veterans, yet half of the veterans who die by suicide have no history of mental illness. Post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) is a complex condition that significantly increases the risk of suicidal thoughts and behaviors, especially when it co-occurs with depression or substance use disorders. Engaging with veterans early to identify and provide tailored PTSD treatment can be lifesaving. However, these goals are often hindered by stigma, fragmented care and delays in intervention. Overcoming these barriers requires an integrated engagement strategy that integrates community-based organizations with healthcare providers. This panel will bring together experts from leading academic, nonprofit and private organizations to explore how artificial intelligence (AI) and machine learning are used in the clinic and the community to identify, engage and treat veterans with PTSD to reduce the risk of suicide. The panel will share their experiences and best practices with any organization working to improve their care delivery model for high-risk populations.