A new brain mapping tool has arrived in Guam, aiming to help veterans facing mental health issues. This technology can diagnose conditions like PTSD and dementia, but right now, it’s only available for Medicare recipients, leaving some veterans without access.
This advanced system, from Nufaze Health Solutions, has been in use for about three weeks at the Hepzibah Family Medicine Clinic. It works by placing electrodes on a patient’s head to monitor brain activity as they complete cognitive tasks. Dr. Ugochukwu Akoma, who runs the clinic, explained how it functions.
“It’s similar to an EEG,” Dr. Akoma said. “But it focuses on how different brain areas react while you look at images and respond to questions.” This process can uncover signs of depression, PTSD, and varying degrees of dementia. So far, around 30 veterans have tried this brain mapping procedure, which is significant since about 60% of the clinic’s patients are veterans.
The brain mapping initiative is a collaboration with HMI, a nonprofit dedicated to supporting veterans. Corina Ballesta, HMI’s vice president, highlighted the importance of this technology. “Many veterans struggle with anxiety, depression, and PTSD. This tool can make a real difference,” she said.
This new tool comes at a crucial moment. Many veterans are leaving Guam due to limited healthcare options, and obtaining specialized care can be tough. Ballesta pointed out that many veterans are unaware they can access free healthcare through the Veterans Administration. Once they do, navigating appointments and referrals can be a challenge.
Currently, Guam has very few specialists available—just one ear, nose, and throat doctor and one hearing specialist, both of whom see veteran patients only twice a year. This shortage complicates access to necessary care.
Dr. Akoma, also a veteran, sees potential in using brain mapping data for VA disability claims. “If we can show clear evidence of conditions like dementia, it could support their claims,” he noted. However, the current limitation to Medicare coverage restricts many veterans from benefiting, and Dr. Akoma hopes to widen access after the trial period ends.
He aims to provide solid data to Medicaid in the future. “We plan to show them how effective the test has been through our trials,” he explained.
The brain mapping tool might even enhance existing treatment options on Guam. Patients diagnosed through this technology can be referred to the Todu Guam Foundation clinic, which specializes in magnetic treatments aimed at specific brain areas.
Other healthcare providers on Guam are observing this technology as well. Dr. Akoma mentioned discussions have taken place with various doctors in the community, indicating a growing interest in this innovative diagnostic tool.
As the Hepzibah clinic gathers more data, they remain hopeful about expanding access so more veterans and others can benefit. “I can’t promise any specific outcomes yet,” Akoma said. “But I’m eager for veterans to try it and see how it helps. The more data we gather, the better we’ll understand its impact.”
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