On Thursday, witnesses at a House panel testified that certain health IT tools could help improve transitions between health care systems at the departments of Defense and Veterans Affairs, NextGov reports.
One witness called for the agency to reinstate a telehealth-based counseling service for veterans with post-traumatic stress disorder.
Another participant said VA should develop an online database of resources to assist veterans with PTSD, substance abuse problems and traumatic brain injuries.
Noel Koch -- undersecretary of defense for wounded warrior care and transition policy -- said VA and DOD are working on a joint virtual lifetime electronic health record project that could help resolve some of the agencies' communication issues. The virtual lifetime EHR would remain with troops during and after their military service (Brewin, NextGov, 1/21).