Last week, we discussed upcoming changes to how Veterans access their VA accounts and benefits online, particularly through MyHealtheVet. Some topics require more than one article to cover, and VA Health is no exception. Here are a few key points from last week’s article, along with some additional thoughts.
First, you need to be enrolled in VA Health before you can use any of the online tools. But there are even more important reasons to sign up for this benefit. A common misconception is that benefits like VA healthcare are available instantly, whenever Veterans or their families need them. CVSOs often receive urgent calls from family members asking what the VA can do for an aging or seriously ill Veteran.
While benefits and services may be available, the process isn’t immediate. Applications need to be submitted, care must be established, and this can take time—sometimes days, weeks, or even months. That’s why it’s crucial to sign up for VA Health Care today. Don’t wait until you’re in a critical situation.
For those already enrolled, staying in touch with your VA clinic and primary care provider is key. I recently spoke with the manager of the Twin Ports VA Clinic in Superior, WI. She emphasized the importance of reaching out if you have any questions or concerns. Contrary to what some believe, contacting the VA isn’t impossible.
To reach the VA, call the Minneapolis medical center switchboard at 866-414-5058. You can bypass the prompts by pressing zero and asking to be connected to the Twin Ports Clinic (or the VA facility you normally visit). If no one answers, leave a message with your full name, date of birth, the last four digits of your social security number, and a good callback number.
If you’re tech-savvy and use MyHealtheVet, you can avoid the phone altogether and send a secure message through the app.
The Twin Ports clinic is also growing, with two new physicians starting in the coming months.
Once you’re enrolled in VA Health and have created a Login.gov or ID.me account, I recommend checking out the VA App Store (mobile.va.gov/Appstore). You can also search “VA Health” in your phone’s app store to explore useful apps like VA Health Chat, VA Online Scheduling, VA Video Connect, and Rx Refill.
The message is clear: stop procrastinating. Enroll in VA Health, establish care, create your accounts, and start using these tools before you need them—and before it’s too late.
Brad Anderson and Melissa Crandall are the Lake County Veterans Service Officers and can be reached at 218.834.8326 or cvso@co.lake.mn.us
Karen Christianson is the Cook County Veterans Service Officer and can be reached at 218.387.3639, or karen.christianson@co.cook.mn.us
