A new TeleDentistry pilot program, based out of the Orlando VA Medical Center (VAMC) is using asynchronous telehealth technology to streamline dental evaluations for Veterans with oral lesions.
Here’s how it works: A trained telehealth technician captures detailed images of the Veteran’s lesion at a remote site, such as the Orlando VA’s outpatient clinics in Daytona, Lake Baldwin, and Viera, Florida. The images are then stored in the system and reviewed by a dental specialist at the Orlando VAMC. The specialist can quickly determine if additional treatment is required.
Ultimately, the program aims to reduce Veterans’ appointment wait times and travel distances.
“Instead of asking Veterans to make the trip to Lake Nona for every evaluation, we can assess the images remotely and determine whether an in-person appointment or further action is needed,” said Dr. Junaid Farooqui, Chief of Dental Services at Orlando VA.
