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Lasting lifestyle changes through TeleMOVE!

By Nikki Verbeck· VA News ·Monday, January 26, 2026 ·1 min read

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Lasting lifestyle changes through TeleMOVE!

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How one Veteran turned his life around Air Force Veteran John Bates says he’s “half the man” he used to be. Through VA’s TeleMOVE!

Our analysis

The success of Air Force Veteran John Bates in achieving significant weight loss and improving his health through the VA's TeleMOVE! program highlights the potential of telehealth services to increase access to care for rural veterans. Living in rural Woodlake, California, Bates is about an hour away from the nearest VA medical center, making regular in-person visits a challenge. The TeleMOVE! program's virtual coaching, daily support, and at-home tools have enabled him to stay connected with his care team and track his progress without the need for lengthy commutes. This model of care can be particularly beneficial for veterans in rural areas who may face barriers in accessing traditional healthcare services. As the VA continues to expand its telehealth offerings, it will be important to monitor the impact on health outcomes and access to care for veterans in rural and underserved areas, and to identify opportunities to further tailor these services to meet the unique needs of this population.

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