Running Springs, CA (Photo: ChrisGoldNY)
As winter sets in, many individuals face challenges that may disrupt their regular healthcare routines. Cold weather, rainy or icy conditions, and the onset of seasonal affective disorder, SAD, can make self-care more challenging. To ensure uninterrupted healthcare during the winter months, the VA offers a range of virtual care options.
For those who find it difficult to venture out, VA Telehealth Services play an important role in providing accessible and innovative healthcare. Through regional telehealth hubs, VA specialists can reach individuals in locations lacking specialty providers, ensuring widespread access to quality care.
Telehealth programs cater to healthcare needs, such as Remote Patient Monitoring for sending health data to care teams, TelePrimary Care for convenient clinic-based consultations, TeleMental Health for mental health services, and TeleStroke for acute stroke coverage. Specialty Care through telehealth extends to over 50 specialty areas, connecting patients with experts across the country.
VA Video Connect, a secure videoconferencing app, allows individuals to meet with their VA providers from the comfort of their homes or while traveling. This telehealth service accommodates both physical health concerns and mental health consultations, addressing needs that may arise during the winter season. This extends to family members and caregivers who can participate in video calls.
VA’s online patient portal, My HealtheVet, allows Veterans to manage appointments, access health records, send messages to providers, and handle prescription refills online. The VA: Health and Benefits app extends these functionalities to mobile devices, offering a convenient way to manage healthcare, benefits, and payments. The app also provides features such as biometric sign-in, proof of Veteran status, disability claim status, and secure communication with VA care teams.
Moreover, VA provides a variety of self-guided learning and coaching apps to promote self-care. MOVE! Coach aids in exercise and overall health improvement, Annie for Veterans sends automated texts for health monitoring and adherence to health plans, Insomnia Coach helps manage disrupted sleep schedules, and Stay Quit Coach and VetChange assist in developing healthier relationships with tobacco or alcohol. Mindfulness Coach is also available for those dealing with holiday stress. These apps and others contribute to enhancing physical and mental well-being and can be found on VA Mobile Apps.
In times of emotional distress, Veterans are encouraged to reach out for support. The Veterans Crisis Line, accessible by calling 988 and pressing 1, or by texting 838255, provides assistance for those feeling overwhelmed, depressed, lonely, or isolated.
Veterans interested in using VA telehealth at home will need internet access and a connected device. The VA, in collaboration with its partners, offers programs to assist Veterans in obtaining internet access or connected devices for telehealth services. These efforts ensure that Veterans can access the care they need, regardless of their location or the challenges posed by the winter season.
Author: Rikki Almanza
Rikki is a Web Content Coordinator for the American Legion, Department of California. With a deep-rooted connection to the military, a spouse who is a Navy veteran, a father who served in the Air Force for 25 years, and a grandfather who proudly served, Rikki is committed to using her skills and knowledge to provide valuable assistance and resources to servicemembers and veterans.