Build your emergency care plan with VA virtual tools

As hurricane season approaches, preparation is essential. If you live in an area that could be impacted, do you have a plan? VA virtual tools can be a crucial part of your response to emergencies and natural disasters.

Here are five tools and resources to incorporate into your emergency planning to ensure that your health needs are met.

1. Video telehealth

If traveling to your in-person appointment isn’t possible, talk to your VA care team about switching to VA Video Connect, VA’s secure videoconferencing app. Video telehealth visits help maintain continuity of care when traveling to a VA facility could be dangerous or you’ve evacuated your area.

Learn more about video visits on the VA Video Connect webpage.

2. My HealtheVet

My HealtheVet, VA’s online patient portal, helps you manage your health care from home. The portal enables you to securely contact your VA care teams, request VA prescription refills, download your VA health records and access your VA appointment information online.

To prepare for hurricane season, regularly check that you have enough of your prescription medications and request more online if you are running low. Having your medication and up-to-date medical records can be crucial during a crisis.

Find more information, access your account on the My HealtheVet website.

3. Remote Patient Monitoring – Home Telehealth

If you’re enrolled in the Remote Patient Monitoring – Home Telehealth (RPM-HT) program, you’ll need a plan to stay connected with your care coordinator during a natural disaster or emergency. The plan will ensure that your care coordinator can continue to help you manage your medical or mental health conditions and ensure you continue to have access to care. For assistance in creating your emergency plan, contact your RPM – HT care coordinator.

4. Veterans Crisis Line

The Veterans Crisis Line provides 24/7, confidential support for Veterans and their family members experiencing a mental health crisis. You can chat live, dial 988 then press 1, or text 838255 for support.

5. Other resources

You can use these trustworthy sources to help plan for disasters and emergencies and assist in emergency response:

• The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention’s Emergency Preparedness and Response webpage shares guidance on keeping yourself and your loved ones safe and healthy in a disaster.
• The FEMA app provides alerts and information to help you stay safe before, during, and after disasters.
• Ready.gov shares resources to help you prepare for and respond to a wide variety of emergencies and disasters.
• The American Red Cross’ emergency resource library includes expert advice and information on a variety of emergency situations.

To learn more about telehealth, visit the VA Telehealth Services page.