Amwell Powers Digital Change of military Healthcare: Expanding Access and Improving Outcomes for 9.6 Million Beneficiaries
the Military Health System (MHS), serving approximately 9.6 million active-duty service members,their families,and retirees,is undergoing a critically important digital evolution. At the heart of this transformation is a continued partnership between Amwell, a leading technology-enabled care platform provider, and a team led by Leidos, recently extended through a crucial contract renewal.This collaboration isn’t simply about implementing new technology; it’s about fundamentally reshaping how healthcare is delivered to those who serve, enhancing access, improving efficiency, and ultimately, bolstering the wellbeing of the military community.
From MHS Video Connect to a Fully Integrated Platform
For years, the MHS relied on MHS Video Connect for virtual care.While a valuable initial step, the system presented limitations in integration and overall functionality. Recognizing the need for a more robust and streamlined solution, the Department of Defense (DOD) partnered with Amwell to deploy a comprehensive, tech-enabled care platform. This wasn’t a replacement of video capabilities, but a strategic upgrade to a fully integrated system designed to work within the existing clinical workflows of the MHS GENESIS electronic health record (EHR).
The triumphant, on-time, and on-budget rollout has already spanned the global DOD enterprise, the U.S. Military Entrance Processing Command (MEPCOM), and the U.S. Coast Guard (USCG), demonstrating the scalability and adaptability of the Amwell platform. This widespread adoption signifies a commitment to consistent, high-quality virtual care across all branches and locations.
The Power of Integration: Enhancing Care Delivery and Efficiency
The amwell platform’s strength lies in its seamless integration with MHS GENESIS. This integration isn’t merely cosmetic; it’s a core architectural element that allows providers to deliver dynamic health solutions directly within their established workflows. This means:
Reduced Administrative Burden: Providers spend less time navigating disparate systems and more time focusing on patient care.
improved Beneficiary Experience: A unified platform simplifies access to care and provides a more cohesive experience for service members and their families.
Optimized Resource Utilization: By streamlining processes and improving efficiency, the DHA (Defense Health Agency) can make the most of its clinical resources across its global network. Cost Savings: Increased efficiency and proactive care management contribute to reduced overall healthcare costs.
Demonstrable Results: The DHA’s Digital Front Door Initiative in Action
The implementation of the Amwell platform is a cornerstone of the DHA’s Digital Front Door initiative, designed to modernize access to care and improve health outcomes. The results speak for themselves:
Tripled Virtual Visit Volume: Since replacing MHS video Connect, the number of virtual visits has nearly tripled, indicating a significant increase in utilization and access to care. this surge demonstrates a clear demand for convenient, accessible healthcare options within the military community.
Expanded Reach: The platform’s success has facilitated expansion beyond core DHA sites to include beneficiaries within the USCG and U.S. MEPCOM, extending the benefits of virtual care to a wider population.
* Care Without Boundaries: Perhaps most powerfully, the platform has enabled successful virtual visits from deployed units in active combat zones, connecting service members directly to military hospitals in the United States. This capability is critical for providing timely care to those serving in remote and challenging environments.
Hybrid Care: The Future of Military Healthcare
The Amwell platform isn’t just about replicating in-person visits virtually; it’s about enabling a hybrid care model that leverages the best of both worlds. This means offering patients the flexibility to choose the care setting that best suits their needs – weather it’s a conventional in-person appointment, a convenient virtual visit, or a combination of both.
“Our platform is in use across the global DOD enterprise, enabling high quality, efficient care for this vital population,” states Ido Schoenberg, M.D., Chairman and CEO of Amwell. “We are grateful for the service of our nation’s military, and we are proud to be supporting their wellbeing. We are honored to extend this relationship and support the Department of Defense initiatives to realize the benefits of tech-enabled care across the MHS.”
Looking ahead: Continued Innovation and Expansion
the extension of this contract signifies a long-term commitment to digital transformation within the MHS. As the platform continues to evolve, we can expect to see further integration with emerging technologies, expanded service offerings, and a continued focus on improving access, quality, and efficiency
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