Operational Virtual Health Modalities Increased Combat Power for 1st Squadron, 2nd Cavalry Regiment During the Enhanced Forward Presence Mission.

Abstract

Virtual Health (VH) is posited to be a force multiplier for Military Medicine, delivering digital healthcare to the point of need for the warfighter. To date, there are no studies on the impact of both synchronous and asynchronous VH modalities during a deployment. VH usage by the 1st Squadron, 2nd Cavalry Regiment (1/2 CR) during a 6 month deployment to rural Poland was evaluated prospectively to identify mission days saved for Commanders. VH Europe staff trained 1/2 CR Garrison and Deployed Medical Staff on VH modalities. Workflows for communication to higher echelons of medical care were developed. Usage of VH was prospectively tracked to identify trends and outcomes. 213 Soldier Mission Days during a 6 month deployment were saved through the use of VH versus in-person travel for care. The predominance of VH was for synchronous video VH for the Warfighter (VIEW) (90%), followed by asynchronous Health Experts onLine Portal (HELP) consultations (10%). Lost Soldier productivity of $87,330 was avoided. Operational VH is a force multiplier that brings the resources of the Medical Center to the Warfighter at the point of need. The full spectrum of VH modalities offers the greatest benefit for deployed units. Expansion of these technologies throughout the Department of Defense will reduce medical evacuations, increase Active Duty Service Member time on mission, and reduce risks for Commanders.