ATLAS center reopen for veterans in rural areas
The U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs recently announced the reopening of the Accessing Telehealth through Local Area Stations (ATLAS) site at Veterans of Foreign Wars Post 6786.
Courtesy photo
EUREKA, Mont. — In a press release, the U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs announced the reopening of Accessing Telehealth through Local Area Stations (ATLAS) site at Veterans of Foreign Wars Post 6786.
ATLAS provides veterans with a private appointment space where they can speak with their VA providers through a secure video conferencing program, which allows them to receive mental health counseling and primary care services
Atlas aims to provide points of care services closer to veterans who live in rural areas.
“ATLAS eliminates another healthcare hurdle for veterans living in rural areas or with limited internet access,” VA Secretary Robert Wilkie said.
In April, clinical services temporarily closed at all ATLAS sites to develop and implement new safety measures to prevent the spread of COVID-19.
The new measures follow guidelines set by the Center for Disease Control and the environmental protection agency; the Eureka ATLAS site will support state and local distancing guidelines.
ATLAS is part of Veteran Affairs “Anywhere to Anywhere” initiative to better service the 9 million veterans who receive their care through VA — no matter where the location.
The Eureka ATLAS site is affiliated with the VA Medical Centers in Spokane, Wash., and Fort Harrison, Mont.
The ATLAS initiative was initially launched on October 16, 2019, featuring state-of-the-art technology to serve veterans in the rural Inland Northwest better.
According to a press release of the VA Spokane, Washington location, there is about 19 percent of veterans living in rural areas; the percent is equal to approximately 5,200,000 Veterans.
The ATLAS pod has adjustable mood lighting, ergonomic chairs, insulated sound, and high-speed fiber optic cable.