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June 18, 2010 - Despite being far away, help has never been closer for soldiers and veterans. Technology such as video conferencing allows soldiers in need of aid to access mental health workers thousands of miles away.
Western Regional Medical Command launched a pilot program two years ago, which included the Virtual Behavioral Health Program (VBHP). The VBHP included the development and implementation of tele-health video conferencing. Both the Department of Veterans Affairs (VA) and the Department of Defense (DoD) are pushing the expansion of technology in veteran's health care and are very interested in how tele-health will perform and how it can best be utilized.
Proponents of the tele-health system see its main role being that of playing a critical function in remotely treating soldiers and veterans suffering from Post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD). At the same time, being able to video conference with a doctor from smaller, less populated VA medical clinics will most likely ease some of the shame that unfortunately has become associated with seeking treatment for mental trauma. The Army understands this concept and makes 50 providers available to supply care over the tele-health video conference to service members utilizing clinics in the northeast parts of the states.
Most of the personnel who took place in the pilot program praised the tele-health video conferencing. They said they felt safer and more open being on the computer as opposed to meeting in person. There are real limitations to video conferencing such as when a soldier needs medicine or hospitalization. The remote counselor on the other side of the video cannot prescribe meds nor can they hospitalize those needing that service. Additionally, the safety of video conferencing in handling a suicidal or homicidal patient has not been determined.
Despite the limitations of the programs, video conferencing as proven to be just as effective as in-person group therapy. The only difference observed between the two was a slightly lesser bond with the video counselor. Currently, there is a multi-year study being performed to hopefully determine once and for all if tele-mental health care is effective in treating PTSD.
Soldiers can return home with a number of conditions, injuries, and aggravated preexisting conditions. If you believe you have a service-connected physical or psychological injury you may be entitled to Veterans’ Disability Compensation.
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