US VA partners with Facebook and Red Cross to provide video call devices
As part of the efforts to roll out telehealth solutions, the US Department of Veterans Affairs (VA) is partnering with Facebook and the Military Veteran Caregiver Network (MVCN) of the American Red Cross to provide Facebook’s stand-alone video-chatting device, Portal, to eligible veterans. It will help veterans to connect with their caregivers, family, and friends to reduce isolation and to maintain their mental health during COVID-19. Facebook donated over 7400 devices to this partnership. Eligible veterans include those in the VA’s Office of Caregiver Support programme, the VA’s Geriatric Services and Extended Care programme, and individuals identified to have risk of suicide by a VA provider. To receive a Portal, eligible veterans will need to make a request through the Military and Veteran Caregiver Network.
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