Care That Fits Your Life
Having easy access to your VA care team is important for your health. But scheduling appointments and traveling to your provider's office can be difficult. Telehealth at home offers services that work with your current care plan, fit your lifestyle and help you stay healthy and independent.
Video Appointments
You will use VA Video Connect, VA’s secure video conferencing app, for your telehealth appointment. The app enables you to connect with your VA care team over live video using a computer or mobile device. Download the app to your device or launch VA Video Connect in your web browser on your computer. For informational guides, video tutorials, FAQs, and to download the app, visit the VA Video Connect page on the VA App Store.
How it works:
- Talk with your VA provider to see whether VA Video Connect could become a part of your care plan.
- When scheduling a video visit, request that VA staff invite your caregiver or another guest through the Caregiver Connect scheduling option.
- Receive an email invitation for your video visit once it’s scheduled. Your guests also receive an email with a personal link to join.
- Visit the VA Video Connect test site to test your computer’s microphone and speakers. To test on your mobile device, text ‘V’ to 83293. You can also ask your VA care team for a practice session.
- At the time of your appointment, click on the link, enter your information and launch the visit. (If you are using an Apple device, you must download VA Video Connect.)
- If you’re not comfortable using telehealth technology, ask a family member or friend to help you prepare for your appointment. You can also visit a Virtual Health Resource Center (VHRC), available at many local VA Medical Centers, for technical assistance. Find a VHRC near you.
Video visits at home may increase convenience and comfort for some Veterans, but may not be suitable for everyone. Ask your doctor if video visits at home are right for you.
Remote Patient Monitoring
Telehealth technologies can collect and send your health data, like vital signs, to your care team. Providers get the information they need to manage your care, while you are in a more comfortable environment. Health data will not be collected without your informed consent.
How it works:
- You are assessed for Home Telehealth remote monitoring services.
- If deemed appropriate, VA provides a device to fit your needs and gives you training on how to use it.
- VA assigns you a Home Telehealth remote monitoring care coordinator.
- Your care coordinator contacts VA hospitals and providers and helps you arrange treatment changes, clinic appointments and hospital admissions.
Ways To Get Connected
To use VA telehealth in your home, you will need internet access and a connected device such as a computer, tablet, or smartphone.
Don’t have reliable internet or an internet-connected device?
VA’s Digital Divide Consult and other resources can provide eligible Veterans with the internet service or technology they need for telehealth. Learn more about digital divide resources.
ATLAS (Accessing Telehealth through Local Area Stations) is also an option for Veterans without reliable internet. VA’s conveniently located ATLAS sites provide comfortable, private spaces equipped with internet service, the technology needed for telehealth, and on-site assistance. Learn more about the ATLAS program.