Improving accessibility for Veterans through innovation

Michael ‘Ed’ Hogg, a biomedical technician at Western North Carolina VA, is making waves with his recent innovation to improve accessibility for Veterans. 

While he was at the cafeteria in the Charles George VA, Hogg noticed a Veteran in a wheelchair struggling to reach the food tray after placing an order. He assisted the Veteran and realized the pressing need for a more accessible solution for individuals with mobility challenges. 

Hogg contacted his supervisor who directed him to innovation specialist Dr. Nora Holmes to help refine his ideas. “Pharmacies, banks, there are so many places that use those accessible drawers,” Hogg explained, emphasizing the simplicity yet effectiveness of his concept. 

Worked with a local metal shop to create the final product

Hogg assembled a team and began measuring and designing a prototype for an accessible food drawer tailored to the cafeteria environment. Despite initial challenges in finding an existing design, he persevered, creating a cardboard prototype and discussing it with cafeteria supervisors to ensure it met the needs of both Veterans and staff. 

After several modifications, he partnered with a local metal shop to create the final product. The development process spanned approximately six months with assistance from maintenance mechanic Glenn Nye.

“Thanks to this event, I learned about the innovation efforts within the hospital. I appreciated how leadership supported my idea,” Hogg shared. 

Holmes elaborated on the initiative, highlighting the importance of small changes that can significantly improve daily experiences for Veterans: “It may seem like a little thing, but if you are having a bad day, it’s just one more avoidable frustration.”

The newly installed drawer has already garnered positive feedback from both Veterans and cafeteria employees, streamlining the food service process. 

Identifying innovations that improve health care for Veterans

Hogg (pictured above) got the attention and support of local leadership by pitching his idea as part of the Innovator’s Network Spark-Seed-Spread application process.  Spark-Seed-Spread is an employee investment program focused on identifying and accelerating front-line employee-inspired innovations that improve health care experiences for Veterans, families, caregivers and employees.

The Spark-Seed-Spread program has been the launching pad for several successful innovation projects within VA facilities, including initiatives implemented nationwide by multiple VA health care facilities.

Among these projects are white noise machines designed to facilitate sleep and reduce anxiety; VEText Prescription Enhancements; WADO, a locally supported recording studio and various applications of virtual reality to improve health care.