TeleRheumatology helps a Veteran get faster, easier access to care

How one Army Veteran received faster treatment through VA TeleRheumatology

After leaving the Army in 2001, James Quick relied on private health insurance for years. When he was diagnosed with rheumatoid arthritis, he managed his care the best he could, but it wasn’t easy.

Due to issues navigating private insurance, he went without the medication he needed for years.

That’s when his wife suggested something he hadn’t considered before: trying VA healthcare. He decided to give TeleRheumatology, which is available in certain areas, a shot at the Fayetteville VA Medical Center, and his expectations quickly changed.

A surprising first impression

From the moment he enrolled in VA healthcare, Quick noticed a difference.

“The experience has been exemplary,” he said. “Everyone I’ve have encountered has been thorough and pleasant.”

In fact, his experience with VA care stood out even compared to his past providers.

“It’s been better than my private healthcare — getting services, getting my meds, getting my appointments.”

That level of support helped rebuild his trust in the system.

Telehealth that delivers

Quick was referred to VA’s TeleRheumatology program to treat his RA. While his rheumatologist is based in another city, distance is no longer a barrier to his receiving care at his local VA facility, thanks to telehealth.

Even from a distance, the care felt hands-on and detailed because the nurse in the room assists him during the virtual consultation with his specialist.

“When the specialist does the physical exam, there’s a nurse there telling me to make fists, put my arms over my head, checking my joints,” Quick said.

Through this virtual and in-person setup, his care team could still track key RA symptoms like stiffness, swelling and pain. Telehealth also gave him something he didn’t expect: more options.

“You can get access to specialists that aren’t necessarily in your area,” he said.

Fast access to medication

After months without treatment, Quick finally got what he needed promptly.

“Two weeks after that appointment, here’s a three-month supply,” he said, referring to his new stockpile of medication.

That speed made a major difference in managing his condition and improving his day-to-day life.

Care that feels personal

For Quick, one of the biggest surprises wasn’t just the convenience, it was the people.

Talking about his VA pharmacist, he said, “When she calls me, it’s not transactional. It’s personal. She allows me to ask questions.”

After years of frustration, that kind of care stood out. Looking back, Quick has one clear message to share with other Veterans: “Use the benefit. We earned the benefit. Why not take advantage of it? I wish I would have taken advantage of this a long time ago.”

Talk to your VA care team to see if TeleRheumatology is available to and right for your needs. To learn more about telehealth at VA, visit the VA Telehealth Services website.