Need a video-capable device or internet connection for VA Telehealth?

VA’s telehealth services enable you to meet with your trusted VA provider anywhere in the country without sacrificing the personalized care you expect from VA.

More and more Veterans have turned to telehealth to save time while still benefiting from face-to-face interaction with their providers.

Programs are available to help Veterans get internet access.

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 determine if you are eligible for the following programs:

VA’s Connected Devices Program – Loans qualifying Veterans with internet-connected tablets for telehealth. The Digital Divide Consult can help determine if a Veteran is eligible.

Federal Communications Commission’s (FCC’s) Lifeline program – Subsidizes the cost of broadband and phone services. Many Veterans are eligible for FCC Lifeline benefits, including Veterans with low incomes and Veterans who participate in Medicaid, VA pension, VA Survivors Pension and other federal programs.

Emergency Broadband Benefit (EBB) program – Expands broadband discounts as part of the government’s response to the COVID-19 pandemic. Veterans who qualify for FCC’s Lifeline program are also eligible for its EBB program. The program helps households afford internet service by providing a discount of up to $50 per month toward broadband services for eligible households and up to $75 per month for households on qualifying tribal lands.

Limited time program

The EBB program is an emergency program. It will end once the program funds are exhausted, or six months after the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services declares an end to the COVID-19 pandemic, whichever comes first.

To get started with the Digital Divide Consult, talk with your VA provider today. For more information, visit the Bridging the Digital Divide Consult page.

To learn about VA telehealth, visit the VA Telehealth Services website.

Treva Lutes is the communications lead for the Office of Connected Care, Veterans Health Administration.