Veterans Affairs Knowledge Network Satellite Downlink Maintenance

The Veterans Affairs Knowledge Network (VAKN) is an e-learning program that effectively distributes educational programs to VA employees via digital satellite technology. The network consists of approximately 200 VAKN downlink satellite antennas installed at VA facilities nationwide, including Alaska, Hawaii, and Puerto Rico. VAKN sends two channels of programming to these facilities, VA1 and Veteran News Network (VNN). VA1 is an employee facing program that is designed to advance the knowledge, skills, and abilities of VA staff. VNN is a patient facing program that is designed to present education and information to Veterans, Veterans family members and caregivers in an entertaining and informative way. Use of VNN as a primary waiting room TV channel, enhances the patient experience while also providing essential information that can improve a Veterans quality of life and well-being. VNN and VA1 are distributed to VA Medical Centers (VAMCs) and Community-Based Outpatient Clinics (CBOCs) through inhouse analog or digital video distribution systems to patient waiting areas.