The Office of Connected Care brings VA digital technology to veterans and health care professionals, providing care beyond the traditional office visit. Through virtual technology, VA can deliver care to patients where and when they need it.
If you would benefit from video visits but don’t have internet access or a video-capable device, VA’s Digital Divide Consult can help. Through the Digital Divide Consult, a VA social worker can help determine if you are eligible for the Affordable Connectivity program to help you get the internet service or technology needed for VA telehealth. For more information about the Digital Divide Consult, talk with your VA provider.
Connected Care Programs:
- VA internet-connected devices: If you don’t have a device with internet access, VA can lend you an internet-connected tablet so you can reach your VA care team through telehealth. The Digital Divide Consult can help determine if you are eligible.
- Mobile connectivity support for telehealth: Many mobile carriers help veteran subscribers avoid data charges when using VA Video Connect on their networks. This enables veterans to access their VA care teams through telehealth with fewer worries about data fees. Visit the VA Mobile website to learn more about the mobile carrier programs and VA Video Connect.
- Telehealth access stations in your community: Through a pilot program called, “ATLAS” (Accessing Telehealth through Local Area Stations), VA is bringing telehealth care into Veterans’ communities. ATLAS sites are comfortable, private spaces equipped with internet access and the technology needed for veterans to have video appointments with their VA providers. VA has teamed up with public and private organizations – including The American Legion, Philips North America, Veterans of Foreign Wars, and Walmart – to create ATLAS sites in select areas of the country. To see if there is an ATLAS 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 two Federal Communications Commission (FCC) programs: Lifeline and the Affordable Connectivity Program (ACP). The Digital Divide Consult can help determine your eligibility for both FCC programs.
- How VA telehealth works: VA Telehealth Services gives you access to the care you need, when and where you need it. To learn about VA telehealth, visit the VA Telehealth Services website.