The U.S Department of Veterans Affairs (VA) made public, March 27, the COVID-19 Response Plan it is executing within its medical facilities to protect Veterans, their families and staff.

VA has shifted some outpatient care to telehealth and some elective and non-emergent procedures have been postponed. This enables Veterans to receive care through minimal contact with staff, saves time and reduces the need for personal protective equipment, making those resources available for critical use.

Additionally, VA will begin to implement two zones within all inpatient units: one for dedicated staff and space to care for COVID-19 patients; the second will be a zone for all other care. These overall changes are aimed at minimizing the risk of infection as VA’s medical professionals make decisions based on what’s appropriate for the given environment and situation.

To learn more on how VA is responding to COVID-19 visit our Coronavirus FAQs page or read VA’s public health response.

Veterans, their families and staff members are urged to take everyday precautions to protect against respiratory illness caused by COVID-19. Those exhibiting symptoms of fever, cough and shortness of breath should call their VA medical center before going to a clinic to limit risk of exposure.