Your Safe Care is Our Mission

What to expect at your next in-person VA health appointment

Are you nervous about coming to an in-person appointment at your VA facility? Do you wonder what we're doing to keep you safe from COVID-19? You may notice some changes the next time you visit. To help you prepare, we want you to know what to expect at your next appointment.

Here are a few safety features you’ll find at VA health facilities:

  • Limits on visitors: To make sure everyone can always maintain a 6-foot distance, we’re limiting visitors to certain areas. At many facilities, we have special drop-off locations for people who are driving a Veteran to an appointment.

  • Masks and screenings: Everyone who enters a VA location must wear a mask that covers their mouth and nose. If you don't have a mask, we’ll provide one. You’ll also need to complete our COVID-19 symptom screening. We'll check your temperature, and ask you to share the results of your digital COVID-19 screening or answer some questions about your symptoms and exposure risk.

  • Hand sanitizer stations: There are plenty of hand sanitizer stations at each facility for your convenience. If you're unsure where to find one, just ask a VA staff member.

If you have questions about any of our safety features or need extra help, please ask the staff at the front desk.

Get care when you need it

If you're experiencing any new or concerning symptoms, call or send a Secure Message (sign in required) to your health care team as soon as possible. Don't wait until it's so late that your symptoms are harder to treat. Your doctor may suggest a phone, video, or in-person appointment.

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