Marion Veterans Affairs Medical Center recently issued the following announcement.
This past Veterans Day weekend, Verizon highlighted its partnership with VA in a commercial featuring VA’s telehealth services.
In the commercial, Navy Veteran Jim Doray uses VA Video Connect, an app that enables Veterans to conduct secure and confidential video appointments with their health care provider.
As part of its VA partnership, Verizon offers Veterans access to VA Video Connect on its 4G LTE network. Veterans can access this service free of charge.
“[VA Video Connect] is one of the best tools in my toolbox for health care,” said Jim.
Jim and his wife, Paulina, live in Julian, California — more than 50 miles from the nearest VA medical center. Jim suffered a spinal cord injury in 2013. His recovery required frequent all-day trips to medical appointments, putting significant strain on the Dorays.
In 2015, Jim’s doctor suggested that he use VA Video Connect and other telehealth tools. Skeptical at first, he said the switch transformed his life.
“Telehealth allows me to live out in a rural environment without having to make the journey for routine care,” he said. “I am so glad that I made the change.”
Increased use
In fiscal 2019, VA Video Connect use increased 235%. Over 99,000 Veterans used the app in their homes rather than visiting a VA facility.
In addition to VA Video Connect, VA offers a suite of telehealth technologies that change the way Veterans receive treatment. These tools enable Veterans to communicate with their health care teams, order prescriptions, and access their health information.
“VA is committed to offering Veterans the health care they deserve, whenever and wherever they need,” said VA Secretary Robert Wilkie. “We want every Veteran to have a choice to schedule an in-person, telephone, or video visit with their providers, depending on their preferences for health care delivery.”
Mike Maiorana, senior vice president of Verizon’s public sector services, said, “Regardless of whether they live in city centers or rural areas, Veterans should be able to access the VA’s telehealth resources.”
The Verizon commercial aired on CNBC, NBC Sports, and the American Forces Network Nov. 10 and 11.
Original source can be found here.
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