The Department of Veterans Affairs and Verizon form a partnership to give a great opportunity to expand the access of telehealth for veterans
We recently came across Nathan Eddy’s article announcing the exciting news of Verizon’s and the Department of Veterans Affairs’ new plan. This plan allows veterans who are customers of Verizon (one of the biggest telecommunication companies nationwide) to gain unlimited access to the Department of Veterans Affairs’ Video Connect. Video Connect is a telehealth app.
“VA’s telehealth app for streaming live video sessions between patients and health care providers is another testament to our shared journey to fully integrated, seamless access to health care for our Veterans, no matter where they live,” stated VA Secretary Robert Wilkie.
This app allows veterans to communicate with their health care team by using encryption. Encryption establishes a secure and private session. Veterans can use Video Connect to have video appointments with their healthcare team or talk to their medical professionals through the built-in chat feature.
One of the most notable aspects of this partnership is that veterans can use Verizon’s 4G LTE network without acquiring data charges. (We all know those can be a nightmare.)
Gaining access to Video Connect is relatively easy. Veterans can go to the Video Connect test site to see if their mobile device is compatible with the app. Customers with Apple devices can simply download Video Connect through the App store. For non-Apple users, a telehealth session starts automatically after they choose an emailed session.
Video Connect is not the only telehealth app from the Department of the Veteran of Affairs. They have released an online scheduling app and an “Ask a Pharmacist” app. These are just a few among many telehealth apps that relate to health and wellness. Perhaps Video Connect will not be the only app used in this partnership soon.
It is also important to note that veterans not only use this telehealth app for physical health and wellness but for their mental health and wellness as well.
We would like to congratulate Verizon for their part in this deal. This serves as a great example to other powerful companies, especially telecommunication companies, what they can do to serve those who have fought for our country.