Coronavirus: West Texas VA Offering Services Amid Pandemic

BIG SPRING, TX – Even as the social distancing guidelines prevent veterans from visiting the West Texas VA Health Care System, WTVAHCS is committed to providing high-quality mental health care. May is Mental Health Awareness Month and WTVAHCS wants to remind veterans they are offering a multitude of services online.

Due to COVID-19 precautionary measures, and out of concern for our Veterans, we are honoring current physical distancing guidelines,” said Jason Cave, Interim Director WTVAHCS. “Through VA’s virtual care tools, we are able to leverage available technology to make sure that our patients and staff are as safe as possible during this time.”

The VA is observing Mental Health Month by emphasizing that “Now Is the Time.” Even during the coronavirus outbreak, Veterans can still prioritize their mental health. Veterans and their families can visit www.MakeTheConnection.net/MHM to learn more about mental health resources and hear stories of recovery.

The virtual sources include the following:

Telephone or Video Appointments 

Veterans can maintain their existing mental health appointments and may receive care at home using VA Video Connect on their computers, smartphones, or tablets. To set up telephone or video appointments, Veterans can send their health care provider a secure message on My HealtheVet by visiting myhealth.va.gov. Veterans can learn more about VA Video Connect at mobile.va.gov/app/va-video-connect.

Prescription Refills and Safety

Veterans should continue taking all medications as prescribed and talk to their mental health provider if they have any concerns. Veterans may request prescription refills and order shipments of medications to their homes using My HealtheVet or the Rx Refill mobile app, which can be downloaded at mobile.va.gov/app/rx-refill. VA’s Safe Home Environment handout provides information on safely storing medications in the home.

Mental Health Information and Resources

VA provides information on ways for Veterans and their families to maintain and enhance their mental health and well-being during the COVID-19 outbreak. Information about managing stress and anxiety, as well as mental health resources, are available at www.mentalhealth.va.gov/coronavirus/resources.

Text Message Reminders

Veterans can use Annie’s Coronavirus Precautions protocol to send automated text messages with information about COVID-19. This application helps Veterans monitor their symptoms and can assist those who need to contact their VA facility for care. Veterans may enroll in the app at mobile.va.gov/annie.

Veterans can call 24/7 to our Nurse Triage Line 1-866-862-7863 with their questions or concerns. 

For more information on ways for Veterans to maintain and enhance their mental health and well-being during the COVID-19 outbreak, visit www.mentalhealth.va.gov/coronavirus.