The U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs’ Advancing Telehealth through Local Access Stations (ATLAS) program is bringing a new, innovative healthcare experience to McKenzie County. Designed to improve access for Veterans in rural areas, ATLAS provides private, high-tech telehealth pods where Veterans can connect with VA providers through secure videoconferencing.
These stations offer a comfortable and convenient alternative to long travel times or unreliable internet connections at home. Upon arrival, Veterans are greeted by an on-site attendant for check-in and basic technical assistance before their virtual appointment begins. However, attendants do not stay for the session or have access to any medical information.
Each ATLAS site is linked to a VA Medical Center (VAMC), which determines the clinical services available—ranging from primary care and mental health to specialty services. This initiative ensures that Veterans in McKenzie County can receive high-quality VA care closer to home.
Appointments can be scheduled through the VA office to use the ATLAS POD for telehealth, where Post Commander (Jesse Johnson) and an ATLAS attendant will be notified of the appointment to ensure everything is okay with the veteran. Learn more here.
Photo taken from Connected Care website
