Murphy administration, VA launch campaign to connect veterans with telehealth resources
NEW JERSEY — The Murphy administration announced Monday a new partnership between New Jersey’s transportation agencies and the U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs (VA) aimed at connecting veterans with telehealth and mental health services.
Throughout July, the New Jersey Turnpike Authority (NJTA), South Jersey Transportation Authority (SJTA), and NJ TRANSIT will display informational posters designed to connect veterans with VA resources. The materials provide details about telehealth services, the nearest VA location, and the Veterans Crisis Line — offering 24/7, year-round access to trained responders for veterans in crisis or those concerned about them.
“This campaign will connect veterans with VA resources and maintain continuity of care within the VA health care system,” Murphy said, noting the effort is built upon the VA’s “Anywhere-to-Anywhere” Telehealth Practice Authority using VA Video Connect.
New Jersey is the latest state to adopt the initiative, which has already launched in Pennsylvania and Nevada.
The VA worked with NJTA to distribute the posters across 21 service areas along the New Jersey Turnpike and Garden State Parkway. The effort also includes the Farley Service Plaza on the Atlantic City Expressway, in partnership with SJTA, and NJ TRANSIT facilities.
“Helping veterans access health care services and benefits is a simple, yet effective way that we can make it easier to find support, whether a veteran is local to New Jersey or traveling through our state,” said Murphy. “We bear a responsibility to make sure that each and every veteran knows that help is never far away.”
RADM Karen Flaherty-Oxler (ret.), medical center director of the Philadelphia Veterans Affairs Healthcare System, praised the collaboration. “This roadside initiative provides us with another touchpoint to connect VA with veterans, and we are grateful to the Murphy administration for their support,” she said.
Fran O’Connor, New Jersey Department of Transportation commissioner and chair of NJTA, SJTA, and NJ TRANSIT, emphasized the impact of the campaign. “By partnering with the VA on this campaign to help veterans access healthcare services, we are giving back to the men and women who have given so much to us.”
Transportation agencies interested in participating in the multi-state initiative can contact the VA Rocky Mountain Network’s Connected Care/Telehealth Office at VISN19CCT@va.gov.
