Verizon offers vets unlimited access care via VA telehealth app

Veterans who are customers of Verizon will be able to access VA Video Connect, enabling live teleconsultations with providers from a computer, tablet or smartphone.

The telehealth app will provide virtual care to veterans anywhere in the country, including in their homes, via Verizon’s nationwide 4G LTE network—without incurring data charges.

VA Video Connect, available in an iOS version and accessible for download in the Apple App Store, leverages the cameras on computers, tablets and smartphones to enable veterans to talk and interact with healthcare professionals through a live, encrypted video stream.

“VA’s telehealth app for streaming live video sessions between patients and healthcare providers is another testament to our shared journey to fully integrated, seamless access to healthcare for our veterans, no matter where they live,” said VA Secretary Robert Wilkie in a written statement.

The agency operates the nation’s largest telemedicine program. Last year, the VA conducted more than 1 million video telehealth visits—a 19 percent increase over the previous year—and the agency’s overall goal is to increase veterans receiving some care through telehealth to 20 percent from 13 percent now.

Also See: VA reports 19% increase in video telehealth visits

Rural veterans are substantially more likely to enroll for the VA’s healthcare services than urban veterans, and rural veterans are on average older than the general population, more often face health problems and live further from physical medical facilities, according to a recent report from the Federal Communications Commission.

“We’re proud to deepen our support of veterans,” said Mike Maiorana, senior vice president for the public sector at Verizon. “Regardless of whether they live in city centers or rural areas, veterans should be able to access the VA’s telehealth resources.”