Veterans Navigate with Ease: Birmingham VA Introduces Innovative Wayfinding Technology
The Birmingham VA Health Care System (BVAHCS) has proudly announced the successful rollout of its innovative VA Wayfinding System, which is transforming the patient and visitor experience across its main Birmingham facility and Birmingham Annex.
This cutting-edge navigation technology, which includes both kiosk and mobile app platforms, offers real-time, turn-by-turn directions to ease the way for Veterans, their families, and staff. The Birmingham VA launched the Wayfinding mobile app earlier this year. Installation is now complete as the easy-to-read kiosks come online.
The VA Wayfinding App is a testament to the BVAHCS's commitment to enhancing patient care through technology. Available on iOS and Android, the app provides not only indoor navigation complete with voice and visual aids. To complement the app, large touch-screen kiosks with audio capabilities have been installed throughout the facilities, which enable users to quickly find their destination by inputting keywords or scanning QR codes for instant directions on their smartphones.
“There are many of us Veterans who struggle with getting to our appointments or knowing how to get there,” said Larry B. Stantley, 42-year multi service Veteran of the U.S. Marine Corps and U.S. Army. “This mobile app and large screen kiosks are a huge help with directions.”
Recognizing the importance of accessibility and ease, the BVAHCS has trained its staff and volunteers to assist in the utilization of these systems. The app extends its utility by allowing Veterans to mark their parking spots, manage and schedule appointments, and receive timely reminders, all aimed at delivering a stress-free and efficient visit.
“The Birmingham VA has had great success implementing the Wayfinding mobile application and now the Wayfinding kiosks, located on each floor of the medical center and lobby area of the clinic annex,” said Kimberly Woods, DNP, Chief Health Informatics Officer. “Patient experience is valued in Birmingham, and we’ve anxiously waited for this technology to be fully installed. We’ve received great feedback from voice of the customer including compliments on its ease of use and great audio features with turn-by-turn directions.”
The BVAHCS is actively encouraging the Veteran community to embrace this new technology by downloading the VA Wayfinding app, ensuring that each visit is as seamless and positive as possible. This system not only elevates the experience of receiving care but also reflects the larger commitment of the VA to integrate innovation into its services for the betterment of those who have served.