The Department of Veterans Affairs (VA) announced on Sept. 26 the nationwide availability of tele-emergency care (tele-EC), an initiative aimed at improving timely access to virtual emergency care for veterans enrolled in the VA health care system.
Since its pilot phase, tele-emergency care has assisted more than 61,000 callers, with a 59.4 percent case resolution rate—meaning that the majority of veterans who used the service were able to resolve their medical concerns without needing to visit an emergency room or urgent care facility in person, according to the statement.
“Veterans can now be evaluated for possible emergencies from the comfort of their home,” VA Under Secretary for Health Dr. Shereef Elnahal said in the statement.
He emphasized the importance of virtual triage in helping veterans determine whether their symptoms warrant an in-person emergency room visit or can be resolved via remote care.
The tele-EC program is particularly beneficial for veterans in rural areas or those who face transportation or mobility challenges, according to the agency.
While it does not replace in-person emergency care for life-threatening conditions, the service provides a convenient and safe alternative for veterans needing quick medical evaluation.
In cases of life-threatening emergencies, VA Health Connect’s clinical triage nurses will call 911 and remain on the line until emergency personnel arrive, ensuring the safety of veterans, according to the statement.
Veterans can access tele-emergency care through various channels, including VA Health Connect and the VA Health Chat app.
By contacting their local VA medical center or using the VA Health Chat app, veterans are connected to a clinical triage nurse, who can refer them to a tele-emergency care provider if necessary.
Depending on the veteran’s condition, the provider can offer medical advice and recommend further treatment or an in-person visit if required.
The launch of nationwide tele-emergency care is part of the agency’s push to expand virtual care options, which has been a key focus in recent years.
The agency stated that since the signing of the PACT Act in 2022, nearly 740,000 veterans have enrolled in VA health care, with many taking advantage of these expanded services.
Veterans’ trust in the VA health care system is at an all-time high, with a reported 91.8 percent outpatient care trust rating, according to the statement.
In addition to tele-emergency care, VA Health Connect offers a range of virtual services, including pharmacy assistance, scheduling, and general medical consultations.
Veterans can access these services by calling their local VA medical center and selecting the appropriate option or by downloading the VA Health Chat app for more convenient communication.
Tele-emergency care provides an effective solution for veterans who may face barriers to in-person care, such as living in remote locations, having transportation difficulties, or wishing to avoid potential exposure to illnesses in medical facilities.
