Leveraging Technology and Why Connectedness is Essential for Veterans
As a retired Air Force colonel who served in Afghanistan, I've witnessed the incredible strength and resilience of veterans. However, I've also seen how returning home can present challenges that often go unnoticed. While the battlefield may be left behind, the battle for good health and well-being continues for many veterans. That’s why leveraging technology to stay connected with healthcare providers, support networks, and loved ones is so important—especially for those dealing with the long-term effects of service.
In today’s world, technology is reshaping healthcare, and veterans stand to benefit immensely from these advancements. Remote Patient Monitoring (RPM), telehealth platforms, and mobile apps are making it easier for veterans to manage their health and stay connected to those who can support them. But the benefits of connectedness go beyond just physical health—they extend to mental and emotional well-being, too.
Technology as a Tool for Continuity of Care
Throughout my military career, I saw how difficult it could be for veterans to receive continuous care once they were no longer on active duty. Many veterans live far from VA hospitals or other healthcare facilities, making regular doctor visits challenging. Technology, particularly RPM, helps bridge this gap by ensuring veterans have consistent access to healthcare, regardless of where they live.
For veterans managing chronic conditions, such as PTSD, diabetes, or high blood pressure, technology offers a lifeline. RPM devices, for example, allow veterans to track their vital signs, medications, and overall health in real-time, which can be transmitted to healthcare providers for timely interventions. This kind of connected care not only improves health outcomes but also reduces the need for emergency visits and hospital stays. By staying connected through technology, veterans can receive ongoing support and care without the barriers of distance or limited healthcare access.
Emotional and Mental Health: Staying Connected to Support Systems
Beyond physical health, connectedness plays a crucial role in mental and emotional well-being. Veterans often experience feelings of isolation after leaving the service, especially if they live in rural or remote areas. Technology offers veterans an opportunity to stay connected with support networks—whether through online veteran groups, teletherapy, or simply maintaining regular contact with family and friends.
One of the greatest challenges veterans face is transitioning back into civilian life, which can sometimes lead to depression, anxiety, or even substance abuse. Staying connected to people who understand these struggles, such as fellow veterans or mental health professionals, can provide emotional support that is vital for healing. Telehealth platforms and mental health apps are excellent tools for veterans to access therapy and counseling from the comfort of their homes, ensuring that they are never truly alone, even when they feel isolated.
The Power of Real-Time Data and Communication
For veterans, having access to real-time health data isn’t just convenient—it’s empowering. When veterans can monitor their own health and receive feedback from healthcare professionals in real-time, they gain control over their well-being. This is particularly important for those managing complex conditions like chronic pain, traumatic brain injuries, or post-combat injuries. By staying connected to their healthcare teams, veterans can make more informed decisions about their treatment and recovery.
Communication is also key. With tools like RPM and telehealth, veterans can communicate regularly with their healthcare providers, ensuring that even minor issues are addressed before they escalate. Real-time feedback helps veterans stay proactive about their health, while also giving healthcare providers the information they need to provide personalized, effective care.
Why Connectedness Matters
In my experience as a veteran and nurse, the importance of connectedness cannot be overstated. Technology, when leveraged correctly, allows veterans to maintain relationships—both with healthcare providers and personal support systems—that are essential for living healthy, fulfilled lives. It ensures that veterans have the resources, care, and support they need to navigate the unique challenges they face after service.
At Valor RPM, we believe that connectedness is at the core of our mission. By leveraging the latest healthcare technology, we are committed to making sure veterans stay connected—to their health, to their providers, and to the people who care about them. In doing so, we can help them build a future filled with health, well-being, and opportunity.
Christine Collins. MA, BS, BSN, RN | Director, Clinical Operations | Christine Collins, MA, BS, BSN, RN, is the Director of Clinical Operations at Valor Healthcare, where she leads critical care and nursing operations with a focus on excellence in patient outcomes. A retired U.S. Air Force colonel, she served as an RN in Afghanistan, gaining invaluable experience in trauma and critical care settings. Her distinguished military career includes leadership roles such as Chief of National Federal Patient Movement and Critical Care Air Transport and Senior Executive Assistant to the U.S. Surgeon General. Christine has also contributed to the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services, where she was responsible for overseeing clinical health services. In addition to her military and government service, Christine has worked in prominent healthcare organizations, including Mayo Clinic, specializing in intensive care and step-down units. Her expertise spans critical care nursing, healthcare operations, and strategic leadership in both military and civilian environments. With a passion for improving healthcare systems, Christine has successfully navigated complex healthcare challenges, ensuring efficient and high-quality care for patients. Her strong leadership, combined with her clinical acumen, continues to impact the field of healthcare significantly.