The healthcare delivery model in the United States is undergoing a significant transformation – one accelerated by the global pandemic and sustained by technological advancements and shifting workforce expectations. At the heart of this transformation is the rise of telehealth, particularly in medical specialties where remote care can be delivered without compromising quality. For agencies like the Department of Veterans Affairs (VA), this shift is not just a matter of modernizing care – it’s increasingly becoming a strategic consideration in attracting and retaining critical healthcare talent.
At Millbrook, we’ve recently observed this trend while supporting federal procurement efforts for psychiatric and radiologic services. These two specialties are at the forefront of the telehealth movement, with physicians actively seeking opportunities that offer remote or hybrid flexibility. In fact, many providers we’ve engaged have already been granted such flexibility under existing VA contracts, creating a new baseline of expectations for future roles.
Why Telehealth Works for Psychiatry and Radiology
Both psychiatry and radiology are inherently well-suited for telehealth. In psychiatry, video conferencing platforms allow for effective mental health evaluations and ongoing therapy sessions without the need for in-person visits. This model not only preserves continuity of care but also improves access for veterans in underserved or rural areas.
Radiology, on the other hand, has long been digitized. Radiologists can interpret diagnostic images from virtually anywhere, provided they have secure access to Picture Archiving and Communication Systems (PACS) and other health IT infrastructure. This makes remote work not only feasible but often more efficient.
The Workforce is Changing – and Procurement Can Play a Key Role
As more physicians embrace the flexibility that telehealth offers, federal agencies have an opportunity to align their procurement strategies with these evolving expectations. We’ve encountered several instances where highly qualified candidates were hesitant to engage with VA opportunities unless remote work was an option. For many of these professionals, telework is not a perk – it’s a standard part of how they practice today.
Additionally, candidates with prior VA experience who have been granted telehealth flexibility are understandably reluctant to accept roles that would require a return to full-time, on-site duty. This dynamic underscores the importance of thoughtful consideration when designing future solicitations, to ensure that the VA remains competitive and appealing to top-tier talent.
The Value Proposition: Flexibility + Fiscal Responsibility
Incorporating telehealth options into VA procurement offers more than just provider satisfaction – it presents an opportunity for cost savings and improved efficiency. Remote roles can reduce the need for expensive relocation packages, cut down on space and overhead costs at VA facilities, and help fill vacancies in high-need areas by broadening the candidate pool beyond geographic constraints.
Additionally, flexible work options can lead to faster fill times and improved retention – two critical challenges in the government healthcare hiring process.
Looking Ahead: A More Agile Model for Veteran Care
As the VA continues to modernize its healthcare delivery model, it would be both helpful and imperative to factor in the long-term role of telehealth – not only for improving access to care for veterans, but for shaping an agile, competitive, and sustainable healthcare workforce. Specialties like psychiatry and radiology offer prime opportunities to lead in this space.
At Millbrook, we remain committed to supporting this evolution. We recognize the balance between operational oversight and provider autonomy, and we are focused on helping agencies build solutions that are both forward-thinking and grounded in the realities of today’s workforce.
About the Author
James L. Paterek, a dynamic human capital & technology industry leader, is the Chief Executive Officer of Millbrook Support Services, a nationwide healthcare staffing & workforce solutions company with offices throughout the country. Millbrook, Joint Commission certified and Service-Disabled Veteran-Owned Small Business (SDVOSB), supplies Physicians, Nurses, Advanced Practice Providers and Allied Health staffing services to government, education, corrections, and commercial clients across North America. Moreover, Millbrook is a GSA-Federal Supply Schedule (FSS) contract holder of the 621 I for Professional & Allied Healthcare Staffing Services with a geographical coverage area encompassing all 50 States including Washington, DC, and Puerto Rico.
