1/29/2020
VA’s Telehealth improves the way VA delivers care
VA’s telehealth program uses technology to improve how VA delivers your care. Just ask Air Force Veteran Bill Nelson. The survivor of three heart attacks, he’s a big fan of the program.
A nurse provides medical information online.
VA uses telehealth to help prevent Veteran suicides at the VA in Kansas. And here’s the story of a Veteran and his wife who were saved a trip from New Jersey to Wisconsin for care.
Nationwide access
Telehealth delivers Veteran- and family-centered health care by connecting you with your VA care team, no matter the distance. The program offers:
Real-time, interactive video visits.
In-home and mobile health remote monitoring.
Technologies that transmit health data or images to VA providers.
VA technologies allow providers to collect health data. This data can guide treatment decisions and improve your care. It will only be collected with your consent.
For instance, imagine how your hypertension treatment could change if your at-home blood pressure monitor sent information to your provider on a regular basis. These technologies help your VA provider get a clearer picture of your health.
Telehealth on your terms
Any Veteran who qualifies to receive VA health care and lives in the United States or a U.S. territory is eligible to connect with their VA providers through this program. Contact your VA care team to develop a care plan that works best for you.
Using a remote device to scan an ankle is an example of an available service.
Whether you visit a community-based outpatient clinic (CBOC) or a larger medical center, your facility telehealth coordinator ensures you and your VA care teams have the tools and information you need to use the services.
Here are telehealth questions to discuss with your provider:
What is telehealth?
What types of services are available to me based on my condition and location?
How do I start the process?
What technology do I need to get started?
How secure is my health information?
How do I schedule a telehealth visit?
VA continues to develop and test new programs every day. Ask your provider to keep you updated about new services and VA-provided devices.
Article Credit: U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs
