Trump’s VA Secretary Pushes for Psychedelic Therapy Despite Regulatory Hurdles
VA Secretary Doug Collins continues his passionate advocacy for psychedelic therapy access for veterans. In a recent Newsmax TV interview, he emphasized his commitment to finding cures rather than temporary treatments for serious mental health conditions. Collins wants to move beyond surface level symptom management to achieve genuine healing for America’s veterans.
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| Key Takeaways |
|---|
| Current Research: VA conducts about a dozen clinical trials on psychedelics with promising results |
| Regulatory Challenge: Federal regulations significantly limit expansion of psychedelic therapy programs |
| Leadership Support: Collins advocates for cures over treatments, working with HHS and FDA for broader access |
| Congressional Backing: Bipartisan lawmakers support psychedelics research funding and pilot programs |
| Timeline Goal: HHS Secretary RFK Jr. aims to expand plant based medicine access within 12 months |
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Promising Clinical Results Drive Policy Push
The VA currently runs approximately twelve clinical trials investigating various psychedelic substances, including an MDMA-assisted therapy study at VA Bronx Health Care showing excellent results. Collins specifically highlighted the potential of substances like ibogaine and DMT based on compelling anecdotal evidence from veterans.
The secretary’s approach reflects a fundamental shift in treatment philosophy. Rather than managing symptoms indefinitely, Collins seeks permanent solutions. “I want to heal people,” he stated, emphasizing his desire to see veterans return to productive lives with their families.
Federal Regulations Create Implementation Barriers
Collins acknowledged that “a lot of it is still tied up with regulation in the federal government” despite promising research outcomes. The VA works closely with the Department of Health and Human Services to identify pathways for expanding clinical trials and moving treatments into broader testing phases.
The secretary expressed concern that veterans currently seek treatment “out of country to other places” due to domestic regulatory limitations. This situation forces veterans to pursue potentially life changing therapies abroad rather than receiving care within the established VA system.
Congressional Support Builds Momentum
Bipartisan congressional support strengthens the push for psychedelic therapy access. Representatives Lou Correa and Jack Bergman, founding co-chairs of the Congressional Psychedelic Advancing Therapies Caucus, recently met with Collins to discuss pathways for veteran access. Their productive conversation signals growing political alignment around this issue.
Recent legislative developments include a GOP controlled House committee approving an amendment requiring progress reports on ongoing psychedelic therapy pilot programs for active duty military personnel and veterans. This oversight mechanism ensures accountability while supporting continued research expansion.
