Defense Health Agency Introduces Advanced Telehealth for Mental Health Services
Cannon Air Force Base, Wednesday, 12 March 2025.
The new telehealth system by the Defense Health Agency significantly enhances mental health care accessibility, enabling Air Commandos increased flexibility and privacy in receiving mental health support.
Revolutionary Implementation and Early Success
On February 10, 2025, the Defense Health Agency launched its comprehensive telehealth system through the 27th Special Operations Medical Group, introducing My Military Health’s Scheduled Virtual Visits platform [1]. The system has already demonstrated remarkable success, with Cannon Air Force Base reporting a 63% increase in virtual mental health appointments from 2023 to 2024 [1]. This digital transformation comes at a crucial time, as recent data indicates that over 47% of physicians and 56% of nurses experience clinician burnout [3].
Enhanced Integration and Accessibility
The new platform seamlessly integrates with MHS Genesis, providing healthcare providers with comprehensive access to patient care histories [1]. This integration is particularly significant as current statistics show that 93% of healthcare organizations now operate telehealth services, with 97% offering virtual patient visits [3]. The system’s implementation has been strategically timed, as current telehealth flexibilities are set to expire on March 31, 2025, making this initiative even more crucial for maintaining continuous care [3].
Comprehensive Support Network
The platform extends beyond basic telehealth services, incorporating support from specialized facilities like the Steven A. Cohen Military Family Clinic network, which provides comprehensive mental health care to post-9/11 veterans and their families [2]. The Cohen Veterans Network’s telehealth program has proven equally effective as in-person therapy sessions, offering a viable alternative for service members seeking mental health support [2]. This multi-faceted approach ensures that military personnel have access to mental health care regardless of their physical location or deployment status [1].
Future Implications and Ongoing Development
Looking ahead, the Defense Health Agency’s initiative aligns with broader healthcare trends, as experts project continued growth in telehealth services [3]. The system’s success at Cannon AFB serves as a model for other military installations, demonstrating how virtual healthcare can effectively address both accessibility and stigma-related barriers to mental health care [1]. For immediate mental health support, service members can contact the national Suicide and Crisis Lifeline at 988, while those at Cannon AFB can reach the mental health clinic directly at 575-784-1108 [1].