Get Started With the Digital Divide Consult
If you’re experiencing challenges accessing telehealth services, your VA care team can help.
The Digital Divide Consult is a process that connects you with programs and resources that provide the internet service or technology needed for VA telehealth. Through the consult, you will be referred to a VA social worker who can help review your options.
Talk with your VA provider to learn more.
VA-Loaned Devices for Telehealth
If you don’t have a device with internet access to reach your VA care team online, VA can lend you an internet-connected tablet at no cost to you.
For more information on the Digital Divide Consult and to find out if you qualify for a VA-loaned device, talk with your VA provider.
See how VA helped a Veteran stay connected to care with a new tablet.
Use VA Video Connect Without Data Charges
VA has partnered with AT&T, T-Mobile, and Verizon to help Veteran subscribers avoid data charges when they use VA Video Connect, VA’s secure videoconferencing app, on a mobile device on their networks.
Visit the VA Mobile website to learn more about the mobile carrier programs and VA Video Connect.
Local Telehealth Appointment Spaces
Together with public and private organizations, VA offers Veterans comfortable, private appointment spaces equipped with internet access and telehealth technology through the ATLAS (Accessing Telehealth through Local Area Stations) initiative.
ATLAS sites are in Veterans’ communities at convenient locations like a VFW or American Legion post. This telehealth option makes it easier for Veterans to access VA care. It reduces obstacles such as long travel times to appointments or unreliable internet connectivity at home.
To learn more about ATLAS and find a site near you, visit the ATLAS webpage.
Internet and Phone Service Discounts
You may be eligible to receive a discount on your home internet or phone service through the Federal Communications Commission’s Lifeline program.
There are different ways to qualify, including if you have a low household income or if you or a member of your household receives assistance from certain federal programs.
To learn more about the Lifeline program, including whether you qualify, visit the Lifeline website or call 800-234-9473 any day of the week, including weekends, from 9 a.m. to 9 p.m. Eastern time. If you’re interested in participating in video-to-home visits, but don’t have the tools you need to get connected, talk with your VA provider about the Digital Divide Consult.
Technical Support
Unsure about how to use telehealth technologies? VA’s Virtual Health Resource Centers (VHRCs) are here to help. They offer phone, video, and in-person consultations with health technology experts who can guide you through setting up and using virtual care tools. Veterans, their family members, caregivers, and VA staff can reach out to VHRCs for hands-on support with health apps, devices, and other telehealth technologies.
To find the center nearest you, visit the Virtual Health Resource Centers webpage.