US Military Confirms Over 100,000 COVID-19 Cases; Launches Virtual Care

The US Department of Defense (DOD) reported on December 28, 2020, about 104,000 active-duty personnel have been diagnosed with COVID-19 this year. The vast majority of these cases have recovered, with only 14 fatalities related to COVID-19 confirmed.

Recently, Brooke Army Medical Center (BAMC) patients in Texas enrolled in a COVID-19 Remote Monitoring Program, a joint effort with the Virtual Medical Center. The program equips COVID-19 patients needing additional monitoring with a home health care kit and 24/7 oversight from registered nurses to ensure a higher post-hospital care level.

"This is an exciting and unique new capability," said Army Maj. Daniel Yourk, deputy director for operations, Virtual Medical Center. "We can move our patients from an inpatient to a home setting with round-the-clock monitoring and reach-back care."

The pilot concept, first developed by the Virtual Medical Center and BAMC, now spans the various military services and the nation.