Dr. Salvo is being recognized for making significant strides in improving the delivery of podiatry services to Veterans through her leadership of the High-risk Eye & Limb Preservation Program (HELPP) at the Atlanta VA Healthcare System (VAHCS). Recognizing the challenges in accessing basic foot care, especially during the pandemic, she spearheaded the integration of telemedicine and the deployment of Intermediate Care Technicians (ICTs) to provide real-time foot care.

 

HELPP was designed to offer comprehensive health assessments, including foot and eye exams, with podiatry oversight provided via video consultations. This approach allowed for immediate initiation of therapies and management of acute foot emergencies. During the pandemic, when in-person care was limited, HELPP's use of ICTs—trained in basic foot care by VA podiatrists—ensured that Veterans received essential treatments promptly, reducing complications and improving outcomes.

 

Under Dr. Salvo's leadership, HELPP has conducted over 5,500 visits since its inception in 2020. The program has notably reduced amputation rates by 40%, improved access to podiatry services by cutting wait times from 38 days to 10 days, and decreased costs associated with community care. Furthermore, Dr. Salvo aims to expand HELPP to more VA facilities, particularly in remote areas, to enhance access to care and prevent amputations, thus significantly benefiting Veterans’ health and well-being.