Navy Veteran Kevin Lane lives with ankylosing spondylitis, a form of arthritis that affects the spine and limits movement.
Fortunately, Lane is able to connect with his VA rheumatologist (a doctor who specializes in inflammatory diseases) through video telehealth visits. The technology saves him a painful and inconvenient two-hour trip from his home in Tamworth, New Hampshire, to the VA facility in Manchester.
“It’s especially helpful in the winter when traveling becomes more difficult because of the weather,” said Lane.
Rather than making frequent trips to the clinic, he can now have follow-up appointments virtually.
“It saves me both time and money,” he shared. “It’s convenient. And with my condition, it’s become more difficult to move around.”
One in three Veterans has arthritis, which can be especially challenging to manage. But through VA’s TeleRheumatology program, which is available to Veterans in certain areas, Veterans such as Lane now have a more convenient and comfortable way to receive world-class care.
How TeleRheumatology works for Veterans
TeleRheumatology allows Veterans to meet with their rheumatologist through VA Video Connect, VA’s secure videoconferencing app. During these virtual visits, the specialist will discuss symptoms with the Veteran, talk through medications and adjust their treatment plan if needed.
Along with VA Video Connect, Lane uses My HealtheVet. The online patient portal enables him to manage his VA prescriptions and schedule appointments.
For Veterans who might be hesitant about technology, Lane encourages them to give it a try. “I would recommend it! It’s easy, convenient and, most importantly, it’s private.”
If you think you may benefit from TeleRheumatology, talk with your VA care team to see if it is available in your area. To learn more about telehealth, visit the VA Telehealth Services website.
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You know what? The information is very helpful and appreciated. Continue to keep us informed,educated and assist us.
Tellehealth sounds great but unsaid is the requirement that one must have a computer with a camera and a microphone. I recently tried telehealth for a session on tinnitus. I was unable to sign on, unable to participate in the session and after four separate discussions with the Va telehealth assistance operator and other VA organizations I gave up.
i live in the Dominican republic. And get no help from the v.a. in Porto Rico.
I have reported this many times. But the va has done nothing and it appears they will do nothing for veterans who have the Porto Rico V.A. as their only hope.
I will die never getting to see a doctor or even get a free exam. i spent 2 days and over 1,000 dollars that is not the b.s the military gives you about free health care. And they do not pay TRAVEL . I sent in a request it was returned with a yellow sticker on the unopened envelope . Reading No known address. Return to sender!!
My time in Viet Nam was being returned with a fuck you !!!
Thx for the info to get care for veterans who can use care that makes it convenient! It is imporant for veterans to receive any information tha t can make their lives better!
For my Arthritis, I have been very fortunate to have my VA Provider refer me to my TFL civilian provider; he can prescribe Duexis , which can only be affordably ordered on the Mark Cuban online CostPlus drugs. It’s been a life saver! Some visits are effective in person or thru telehealth. Love my McClellan VA
Wow! That outstanding it is what I needed.
Well from 1980 I was diagnosed with rheumatoid Arthritis. I was a Seargeant at Danang Air Force base as a Fuel specialist inhaling toxic chemicals every day. Which it attacks your autoimmune system. In 1980 my Rheumatologist started me with Methrotrexate, which Is chemo in a pill form, and Remicade infusion every 7 weeks . It has kept my disease under control. If I try to stretch infusions to 9 to 10 weeks I start hurting all over. Danang was where Agent Orange was stored. We had body bags constantly coming off flights, etc.
I don’t think I can benefit from a telehealth call. I go to visit my RA Dr. in order for her to give the prescription for Remicade, etc. Telehealth may be a good idea for anyone not needing infusions .
Help is on its way
Airborne Infantry
Infantry Mechanized
Our experience was profoundly different. And it still is.
I see articles all of the time for arthritis care and it lifts my spirits. Then I read the article and it’s for a rheumatologist which is misleading to me. I have advanced degenerative ” Arthritis” and I keep getting told nothing can be done, you will just have to deal with it. This was from a rheumatologist.