During the 2024 Virginia Telehealth Network Summit, Bay Rivers Telehealth Alliance (BRTA) received the inaugural VTN Innovator Award for its work to expand access to behavioral health care in the Middle Peninsula and Northern Neck regions of rural Virginia.
The VTN Innovator Award celebrates the unique and groundbreaking ways health care providers, clinics, and organizations across the Commonwealth are leveraging telehealth to expand access to care in rural and underserved areas.
Bridging Gaps in Behavioral Health Care and Substance Use Disorder Treatment
BRTA developed an innovative program that enhanced health care access for uninsured individuals exhibiting symptoms of mental health and substance use disorders without a formal diagnosis in a region where geographical isolation and a shortage of health care professionals pose significant barriers to care.
The program enabled the deployment of a case manager at a local free clinic to offer both in-person and telehealth-based care to these individuals, many of whom delayed seeking care.
Telehealth allowed regular virtual check-ins with providers, continuous assessment of symptoms, and immediate adjustments to treatment plans. Regular check-ins helped prevent the escalation of symptoms that could have led to more serious conditions.
“Virtual Care is bridging gaps in care, enhancing access to necessary interventions, and building a supportive rapport with individuals to improve their overall health outcomes,” said Mary Ochsner Krampen, BRTA Executive Director. “Telehealth is crucial to BRTA, which unites 13 member organizations and over 40 partners to improve health care access in rural Virginia.”
Case managers provided a holistic approach to treatment by coordinating care among multiple providers and connecting individuals with appropriate referrals and resources, including counseling services, community programs, and valuable educational resources and support for the individuals and their families.
Through 1,832 service hours, BRTA’s program ensured 493 individuals had access to the necessary services and support systems they needed. By bridging gaps in care and enhancing overall treatment effectiveness, it contributed to better health outcomes and improved quality of life.
BRTA’s integrated telehealth services program was made possible through an HRSA Rural Community Opioid Response Program grant.
By recognizing forward-thinking approaches in telehealth through the VTN Innovator Award, VTN aims to inspire continued creativity and highlight the critical role telehealth plays in enhancing the quality and reach of health care in the Commonwealth.