WASHINGTON – Congresswoman Yvette Herrell (R-NM) has sent a formal request to the Executive Directors of the Albuquerque and El Paso Veterans Affairs healthcare systems to expand the Accessing Telehealth through Local Area Stations (ATLAS) program, which would help New Mexico veterans without broadband internet gain access to reliable telehealth services.
“I’m proud to fight for expanding telehealth services to New Mexico’s veterans," said Rep. Herrell. "I look forward to working with the VA, veterans groups, and local businesses to bring these services to rural areas that lack broadband access."
"As you are aware, ATLAS is a strategic collaboration between the VA, Veterans of Foreign Wars, The American Legion, Walmart, Philips, and healthcare companies such as CareLink, Caregility, and Steelcase," wrote Rep. Herrell in her letter. "This program is essential in integrating public-private partnerships to implement telehealth technologies and infrastructure at select Walmarts, American Legion posts, and Veterans of Foreign Wars posts across the country. I am aware of thirteen locations total that exist across the United States to date."
"Given broadband connectivity challenges in New Mexico, the ATLAS program would be instrumental to fill some voids in coverage across our state. By bringing these technologies into rural areas, more Veterans could access much-needed services and care without having to rely on unstable or nonexistent internet connections for telehealth appointments or drive long distances for an appointment."
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