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A 30-year progress report on a VA satellite psychiatric clinic program
E A Workman1, D Short, R Turner
1Salem Veterans Affairs Medical Center, Psychiatry Service, VA 24153, USA.
Psychiatric Services (Washington, D.C.)
|December 24, 1997
Summary
Rural satellite psychiatric clinics provide essential mental healthcare to veterans facing access challenges. This program ensures veterans in remote areas receive timely diagnosis and treatment, overcoming distance barriers.
Area of Science:
- Psychiatry
- Rural Health
- Veterans Affairs Healthcare
Background:
- Veterans Affairs medical center developed a rural satellite psychiatric clinic program over 30 years.
- The program aims to address mental healthcare access issues for veterans in remote locations.
Observation:
- Eight satellite clinics are served by a single, multidisciplinary team (psychiatrist, psychiatric nurse, two mental health technicians).
- The team provides monthly services to each of the eight rural sites.
Findings:
- The program successfully delivers outpatient screening, diagnosis, and treatment.
- Veterans gain access to specialty psychiatric care previously unavailable due to geographic isolation and transportation difficulties.
Implications:
- This model demonstrates a viable solution for extending mental health services to underserved rural veteran populations.
- The program highlights the effectiveness of mobile psychiatric teams in overcoming logistical barriers to care.