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Virtual mental health care use on the rise amid COVID-19

Posted at 1:21 PM, Apr 15, 2020
and last updated 2020-04-17 16:30:48-04

The VA Southern Nevada Healthcare System (VASNHS) staff data shows a dramatic jump in virtual mental health care services in March, a sign Veterans are successfully accessing care despite the challenges the pandemic has presented.

VA Video Connect allows Veterans to consult with their healthcare provider via their computer, tablet or phone.

Also, during March, mental health providers completed more than 2,200 appointments with Veterans using VA Video Connect, an increase of over 500 percent from the 430 appointments made in February, before the pandemic.

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Nationwide, VA mental health providers completed more than 34,000 appointments with Veterans using VA Video Connect, an increase of 70 percent from the 20,000 appointments made in February.

To request a virtual care appointment or to convert an in-person appointment to virtual care, call 702-791-9024.

For Veterans in crisis, help is available at the Veterans Crisis Line: 1-800-273-8255, and press 1, or text 838255.

For more information about VA’s overall response to the COVID-19, please refer to http://www.va.gov/coronavirus-veteran-frequently-asked-questions/.