VA saw increases of more than 200 percent for telemental health care in March.
The Department of Veterans Affairs (VA) announced dramatic increases in telemental health care use during the ongoing COVID-19 pandemic.
“VA is open for business and we continue to provide same-day mental health services and mental health screening for veterans at-risk who require attention at any of our facilities,” VA Secretary Robert Wilkie said. “There is no doubt VA’s early embrace of new technology is aiding veterans, and I applaud VA health-care workers and veteran patients for embracing it.”
Mental health-care providers during March completed more than 34,000 appointments using VA Video Connect, a dramatic increase from the 20,000 appointments made before the pandemic began in February. VA officials expect these numbers to continue to grow in April as more states implement stay-at-home orders.
• Telehealth group therapy conducted more than 2,700 visits in March, a jump of more than 200 percent from the prior month.
• Mental health care and consultation delivered by phone rose to more than 154,000 appointments in March, up 280 percent from the 40,000 appointments in February.
• Vet Centers across the nation held more than 47,000 virtual appointments in March, a 200 percent increase from February. These counseling sessions dealt with mental health issues.
Veterans and their families are urged to take precautions to protect themselves and others against 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.
Veterans interested in learning more about scheduling a telehealth appointment can read the latest VA information about the Coronavirus and mental health.
For veterans in crisis, help is available at the Veterans Crisis Line: 1-800-273-8255, and press 1, or text 838255, or chat www.VeteransCrisisLine.net.
For the latest VA updates on coronavirus and common-sense tips on preventing the spread of disease, visit www.publichealth.va.gov/n-coronavirus/.
Stay informed on message from American Legion National Commander James W. "Bill" Oxford and other news stories regarding the coronavirus at www.legion.org/coronavirus.
- Veterans Healthcare