Implementation Considerations for Telehealth Programs Serving Veterans

The Department of Veterans Affairs (VA) operates the Veterans Health Administration (VHA), a healthcare system with a robust telehealth program and a long history of providing innovative telehealth programs to meet the needs of rural veterans. A specific focus of telehealth programs that serve veterans is behavioral and mental healthcare.

Rural communities that serve veterans may benefit from reviewing the Implementation Manual for a Telemental Health Outreach Clinic Between a Veteran Health Administration Facility and an Academic Health Center, which provides specific information about building partnerships between VA medical centers and medical facilities on college campuses. Suggestions include ensuring that patients can receive services in private and confidential spaces and making plans for mental health crises.