Dear Veterans,
I hope you are continuing to enjoy a safe and healthy summer.
Did you know that you have access to a team of highly trained VA nurses 24 hours a day, 7 days a week—simply by picking up the phone or using VA Health Chat?
The VA Health Connect Clinical Contact Center (CCC) is here to provide you with convenient access to expert clinical guidance whenever you need it. Whether you have an urgent health concern, questions about your symptoms, or need advice outside of normal clinic hours, our experienced triage nurses are just a call away.
By calling 1-855-679-0214, you'll be connected with a nurse who can assess your symptoms within minutes by telephone or secure video chat. Our team is available to assist with primary care, urgent care, mental health, and specialty care concerns, offering professional guidance and recommendations based on your individual needs.
They can also help coordinate follow-up appointments with your VA Primary Care team when appropriate.
We understand that your time is valuable. That's why, for many non-life-threatening illnesses and injuries, you can receive expert advice from the comfort of your home—without waiting for regular office hours or traveling to the medical center.
The Clinical Contact Center can assist with many common health concerns, including:
• Cold and flu symptoms
• Minor cuts, scrapes, and skin irritations
• Insect bites
• Headaches
• Sprains and joint or back pain
• Pink eye
• Urinary tract infections
• Upset stomach
• Dizziness
• Medication questions and prescription refills
• And much more
After evaluating your symptoms, our nurses will help determine the most appropriate next step—whether that's home care, a same-day appointment, an urgent care visit, or additional medical evaluation.
The VA Health Connect Clinical Contact Center is another example of how the Columbia VA Health Care System is expanding access to care and ensuring you receive the right care, at the right time, in the right place. By providing timely clinical guidance, we can often help you avoid unnecessary trips while improving your overall health care experience.
As always, if you are experiencing a life-threatening emergency, please call 911 or go to the nearest emergency department immediately. If you or someone you know is experiencing a mental health crisis, contact the Veterans Crisis Line by calling 988 and pressing 1, texting 838255, or chatting online.
Thank you for your service, for placing your trust in us, and for allowing us the privilege of caring for you. It is an honor to serve those who have served our nation.
Respectfully,
Jeffrey Soots
Acting Executive Director/CEO
Columbia VA Health Care System
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