The Department of Veterans Affairs has put an end to copayments for veterans receiving care via video conferencing, according to a VA news release.

“Clinical Video Telehealth,” as it is called, can be used to make diagnoses, perform check-ups, as well as manage and provide care, potentially connecting veterans with a VA specialist or practitioner thousands of miles away, according to the VA’s Office of Telehealth website.

The technology, being used to provide immediate access to care for veterans who may not have services in their community or whose travel is limited by their ailments, can also be used to make arrangements for face-to-face services or to discuss postsurgery recovery.

“Eliminating the copayment for this service will remove an unnecessary financial burden for veterans,” Secretary of Veterans Affairs Eric Shinseki said in the release. “We will continue to do everything we can to ensure that veterans have access to the first-class care they have earned with their service to our Nation.”

Those who use the technology most include those with traumatic brain injuries, spinal cord injuries, mental health issues, diabetes and heart issues, the release stated.

For more information, see telehealth.va.gov/.

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