A new scheduling system for veterans enrolled in VA health care in and around Upper Michigan can expect improved service.
The Oscar G. Johnson VA Medical Center in Iron Mountain is implementing direct scheduling for audiology and optometry appointments starting September 1.
Under the former system, vets needed a referral from their primary care physician, but Public Affairs Officer Brad Nelson says the new arrangement eliminates unnecessary steps and saves time and money….
“…being the only VA facility the provides audiology and optometry services in this large area many times the veterans have to travel to the Iron Mountain area, but they could get a consult from their community based provider, but now they can directly schedule and make the one trip up.”
Nelson says the direct scheduling is part of the VA’s transformation efforts to improve health care access. He says the goal is to have all VA medical centers around the country to follow their lead by the end of the year.
Veterans can directly schedule audiology and optometry appointments by calling a primary clerk at the medical center or its community based outpatient clinics.
Other efforts that were recently put in place at the Oscar G. Johnson VA Medical center include telehealth capabilities and holding two access stand-downs to make sure no patients are waiting an undue amount of time for urgent care.
