Projects

The Ketamine Taskforce is driving change on multiple fronts, including research, insurance advocacy, regulatory approval, and public awareness, all aimed at one goal: ensuring that anyone who needs ketamine treatment can access it.

Ketamine, which has been used safely as an anesthetic since the 1970s, has been shown to stop suicidal ideation faster than any other drug currently available. It has also demonstrated significant promise in treating chronic pain, PTSD, and treatment-resistant depression. Yet because ketamine is only FDA-approved for use as an anesthetic, patients in crisis, including veterans, first responders, and others living with chronic pain and mental illness, are routinely denied access to this potentially life-saving treatment.

Below, you'll find an overview of the initiatives we're pursuing to close that gap: from clinical research and regulatory approval to insurance advocacy and public storytelling.

  • The majority of insurance companies and Medicare still refuse to reimburse for ketamine treatments.

    Visit our News page for the latest progress and updates on the Taskforce's efforts to change that.

  • A nationwide network of clinics working together to generate real-world evidence on how ketamine improves activities of daily living for chronic pain patients. This data strengthens the case for insurance coverage and broader access.

  • The Ketamine Taskforce is raising funds to produce a documentary telling the stories of veterans whose lives have been changed by an old medication with a new purpose. Ketamine, used safely as an anesthetic since the 1970s, has been shown to stop suicidal ideation faster than any other drug currently available.

    Because ketamine is only FDA-approved for use as an anesthetic, however, veterans and others in crisis are routinely denied access to this potentially life-saving treatment.

    Veterans, and female veterans in particular, remain among the most overlooked populations in the country. Despite their sacrifice and service, many return home to face suicidal ideation and PTSD at higher rates than the general population — a stark contrast to the promise that no soldier is left behind.

    This documentary will follow veterans who are fighting for access to ketamine treatment for suicidal ideation, PTSD, chronic pain, and other diagnoses. Their stories illustrate both the urgent need for expanded access and the transformative impact this treatment can have when veterans are able to receive it.

    We are seeking funding partners and donors to help bring this project to life. Donate today to help ensure these stories are told — and help build the case for the access these veterans deserve.

  • In early 2022, our technology partner Osmind published the largest real-world analysis of ketamine infusion therapy for depression, providing peer-reviewed evidence that the treatment is rapid, effective, and produces durable outcomes across US clinics. This research can be used to support insurance appeals and coverage requests — patients and providers are encouraged to cite this study when seeking reimbursement or appealing denials.