The U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs (VA) has launched a new initiative with the Pennsylvania Turnpike Commission (PA Turnpike) to connect veterans in rural areas with telehealth and mental health resources.

The PA Turnpike posted flyers at rest areas across its more than 565-mile road system to help connect veterans to VA resources. The flyers share information about veterans' telehealth options, the closest VA location, and the Veterans Crisis Line to empower veterans in crisis or others concerned about a veteran to access free and confidential support from trained responders 24/7, 365 days a year.

The VA selected Pennsylvania to expand the initiative due to the state's size and rurality. The VA worked closely with the PA Turnpike to provide the information at its 17 service plazas located along the PA Turnpike that provide round-the-clock food, fuel, restrooms and other amenities.

This campaign will connect veterans with VA resources and maintain their continuity of care within the VA health care system based upon the "Anywhere-to-Anywhere" Telehealth Practice Authority using VA Video Connect.

Any transportation agency that wants to participate in this multi-state initiative may contact VA Rocky Mountain Network's Connected Care/Telehealth Office at VISN19CCT@va.gov.