Understanding Your Options
Virtual visits aren’t one-size-fits-all. Some visits happen live, while others allow you to review information later. Any Veteran enrolled in VA healthcare is eligible to receive care by telehealth; however, telehealth is not suitable for every condition and situation.
Talk with your VA care team to determine which telehealth options may work best for your needs. If telehealth is right for you, you have options for requesting telehealth appointments – online, by phone, or in person.
Synchronous Telehealth
Synchronous telehealth visits happen in real time. Connect directly with your provider using video or phone technology during a scheduled appointment.
These virtual visits work similarly to in-person appointments, allowing you to ask questions, discuss symptoms, and receive guidance during your conversation.
Examples
- Video and phone appointments
- Specialist consultations
- Follow-up appointments
Benefits
- Ability to ask questions in real time.
- Helpful for appointments that require detailed discussion with your VA care team.
Things To Keep in Mind
- You’ll need to schedule an appointment.
- For a video telehealth appointment, you will need a smartphone, tablet, or computer.
- Internet access is needed for video visits.
Asynchronous Telehealth
Some telehealth services are asynchronous and don’t happen live. Instead, you send information to your VA care team, and they review it and follow up with you later.
Examples
- Secure messages sent through My HealtheVet on VA.gov or the VA: Health and Benefits app.
- Uploaded photos of symptoms or skin concerns.
- Online questionnaires or forms.
- Remote patient monitoring updates.
- Patient-generated health data such as blood pressure, glucose, or weight readings.
Benefits
- Convenient for non-urgent questions.
- Allows you to send updates without scheduling a live visit.
- May reduce the number of unnecessary appointments.
- Helpful for managing ongoing conditions.
Things To Keep in Mind
- Response or review times can vary depending on office or clinic availability.
- Your provider may recommend scheduling a live visit if more discussion is needed.