VA TelePulmonology helps Veteran receive lung care from home
VA provides respiratory therapy through telehealth
When Air Force Veteran Robert Ordoyne was hospitalized earlier this year with coronary hypertension—a condition that puts added strain on both the heart and lungs—he wasn’t sure what his recovery would look like. Ordoyne, who served from 1983 to 1987, knew he was facing a health challenge that would require ongoing care.
After several days of inpatient care, his VA care team began planning for his long‑term recovery. They wanted to make sure he could continue his treatment while avoiding the stress and fatigue of frequent trips for rehab sessions.
That’s when his respiratory therapist suggested VA TelePulmonology, a specialized respiratory care available through VA Telehealth Services. Using VA Video Connect, VA’s secure videoconferencing app, Ordoyne now meets twice a week with his respiratory therapist from the comfort of his own home.
“It makes it a lot easier for me,” Ordoyne said. “Not having to drive across town twice a week has been a big help.”
Providing virtual lung care
Pulmonology focuses on diagnosing and treating diseases associated with the entire respiratory system, including the lungs and throat. VA’s TelePulmonology services, which are available in certain VA health care systems, virtually connect Veterans to pulmonologists, respiratory therapists, and other lung health professionals.
This saves Veterans from having to travel to in-person appointments and enables Veterans who live far from the nearest specialist to get the care they need.
During Ordoyne’s biweekly sessions, he and his therapist review his progress, adjust his treatment plan as needed, and work through guided breathing and movement exercises that strengthen his lungs and support his heart health.
Pulmonary rehab exercises, from breathing techniques to light physical activity, have helped strengthen his lungs and cardiovascular health. Doing them from home means he can maintain a consistent routine and recover at his own pace.
Staying connected to care
TelePulmonology enables Ordoyne to stay connected to his care team. His respiratory therapist collaborates with other VA specialists to coordinate test results, recommendations and follow‑up appointments. Ordoyne reviews his results and manages appointments through My HealtheVet on VA.gov, VA’s online portal.
Ordoyne’s therapy schedule is revised as needed, based on his weekly progress. He encourages other Veterans to ask about VA telehealth.
“If it’s available, give it a try. It saves you time and keeps your care on track,” he added.
Talk to your VA care team to see if TelePulmonology is available and right for you. For more information about telehealth resources for Veterans, visit VA Telehealth Services.