Improving virtual access to mental health care for veterans
Virtual Care Coordination in VA Primary Care-Mental Health Integration
This study is looking at how to make it easier for veterans to get mental health support right after their medical appointments using online services, especially during the COVID-19 pandemic, so they can get the help they need when they need it.
Quick facts
| Grant type | NIH-funded research |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | VA Greater Los Angeles Healthcare System NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Los Angeles, United States) |
| Project ID | NIH-10906666 on NIH RePORTER |
What this research studies
This research investigates how to enhance same-day access to mental health services for veterans using virtual care after medical visits. It aims to identify the factors that affect the ability of patients to receive timely mental health care through virtual platforms, especially in the context of the COVID-19 pandemic. By analyzing existing data and patient experiences, the study seeks to improve follow-up rates and overall mental health outcomes for veterans who initiate care online. The findings could lead to better strategies for virtual care coordination in the Veterans Health Administration.
Who could benefit from this research
Good fit: Ideal candidates for this research are veterans who have recently initiated primary care and are seeking mental health services through virtual platforms.
Not a fit: Patients who do not use virtual care or who are not veterans may not benefit from this research.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could significantly improve access to mental health services for veterans, leading to better health outcomes.
How similar studies have performed: Preliminary studies have indicated that in-person visits yield better access rates compared to virtual visits, highlighting a gap that this research aims to address.
Where this research is happening
Los Angeles, United States
- VA Greater Los Angeles Healthcare System — Los Angeles, United States (Active)
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Leung, Lucinda B — VA Greater Los Angeles Healthcare System
- Study coordinator: Leung, Lucinda B
About this research
- This is an active NIH-funded research project — typically early-stage science, not a clinical trial accepting patient enrollment.
- Some NIH-funded labs run parallel clinical studies or seek volunteers for related work. To check, contact the principal investigator or institution listed above.
- For full project details, budget, and progress reports, visit the official NIH RePORTER page below.