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Investigate PTSD treatment

A civilian psychiatrist formerly employed at Camp Lejeune, N.C., has leveled grave allegations about the quality of mental health care provided by the Navy to distraught Marines returning from war, saying that without action, the base is at risk for its own “blowup” like the Nov. 5 massacre at Fort Hood, Texas.

Dr. Kernan Manion says he was fired from his job in September for complaining about the base’s allegedly shoddy treatment facilities and the absence of intensive-care options for those exhibiting violent behavior. Worse, he claims that some of his patients were made to feel weak for seeking mental health services. Among his accusations:

• Renovations to the base’s Deployment Health Center required Marines suffering from post-traumatic stress disorder to be treated inside thin-walled trailers that were located within earshot of explosions and gunfire at nearby training ranges.

• The clinic had no protocols for committing potentially violent patients or for protecting therapists from violence.

• Those seeking help were taunted by their superiors and in some cases punished.

The Navy has been less than convincing in its response, calling the level of care provided at Lejeune “more than adequate” but saying little else.

to so tersely brush off such serious allegations is itself an inadequate response. Troops and those who care for them need to know that such allegations are taken seriously. The better response to Manion’s claims would be a stated commitment to investigate not only his allegations but all suggestions for improving the quality of mental health services for every Marine and sailor in the Navy’s care.

The Navy owes them the promise of seriously and transparently evaluating all ideas for enhancing these vital services. In this arena, it should always look to do more.