Utilization of mental health services by minority veterans of the Vietnam era.

This study sought to identify differences in utilization of mental health services among members of five minority groups who served in the military during the Vietnam era. Data on utilization of mental health services from five different types of provider (Veterans Affairs [VA] and non-VA mental health providers, nonpsychiatrist physicians, clergy, and self-help groups) were obtained from a national survey of Vietnam era veterans (the National Vietnam Veterans Readjustment Study) along with information on sociodemographic characteristics, health status, income, and health insurance coverage. Chi-square tests and multivariate logistic regression analyses were used to compare use of various services among whites, blacks, Puerto Rican Hispanics, Mexican Hispanics, and others. Black veterans and Mexican Hispanic veterans were significantly less likely than white veterans to have used non-VA mental health services or self-help groups, after adjusting for health status and other factors. There were no differences between ethnocultural groups in use of VA mental health services, or services provided by nonpsychiatrist physicians or clergy, even after adjustment was made for health and economic factors. Although military service during the Vietnam conflict may have alienated many minority veterans from the federal government, the reluctance of minorities to use non-VA mental health services does not extend to the VA system. Further studies are needed to clarify the reasons for less non-VA service use among some minority groups.