VA launches technological upgrades to mobile health care system for veterans
September 09, 2017
President Trump announced a new initiative to improve veterans’ access to health care using technology. Several tools will serve to expand the Department of Veterans Affairs’ (VA) existing telehealth services, including a new application that allows patients to schedule appointments from their mobile devices.
Veterans can use their smartphones or computers to connect with their VA doctors. Trump said the program aims to boost access to care, especially for veterans who require mental health care and suicide prevention services. The mobile system makes it easier for patients to receive health care remotely, especially those who reside in rural areas where there are fewer mental health specialists.
Trump was accompanied by VA Secretary David Shulkin during an event at the White House. “What we’re announcing today is a big deal for veterans,” said Shulkin. He demonstrated the technologies for Trump and described the benefits of telehealth options such as video technology for performing medical exams.
Shulkin, who is a practicing doctor himself, uses telehealth appointments to see patients virtually. The VA secretary also spoke about a regulation that would allow VA health care professionals to provide telehealth services to veterans nationwide, no matter where they are. “We call it ‘anywhere to anywhere’ VA health care,” said Shulkin.
The VA secretary pointed out to reporters that broadband access needed to be improved as it was a key concern in some of the country’s rural areas. According to VA data, over 700,000 veterans received care through existing telehealth programs last year. Cumulatively, they made around two million appointments using mobile devices.