Veterans have recently been receiving text message communication from the VA regarding their VA care and benefits. In the age of phishing scams and internet fraud, many Veterans understandably have concerns that these text messages are some form of trojan horse designed to steal your information.
However, please be aware that the text messages have actually been coming from the VA. This is because these Veterans have signed up for the VA Vetext program to receive updates on their care.
The VA Vetext program is a communications platform used by the U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs (VA) to improve engagement with veterans. It primarily utilizes text messaging (SMS) to send reminders, notifications, and other health-related information to veterans who are enrolled in VA healthcare services.
Key features of the VA Vetext program include:
- Appointment Reminders: Veterans receive automated messages about upcoming medical appointments, which can reduce no-shows.
- Health and Wellness Alerts: Veterans can receive reminders for health screenings, vaccinations, and other preventive care services.
- Care Coordination: Provides updates on prescriptions, upcoming tests, and post-discharge instructions.
- Opt-in/Opt-out Flexibility: Veterans can choose whether to participate in the service and have control over their communication preferences.
This program aims to improve convenience, reduce missed appointments, and ensure veterans stay informed about their healthcare.
While the VA is currently using VA Vetext to send reminders of upcoming appoints, the VA is replacing Vetext with VANotify. Veterans do not need to take any action to receive the new text messages. If they are currently receiving texts from the VA, they will be enrolled automatically in the new system.
Receiving medical treatment from the VA can be burdensome, time consuming, and frustrating. Programs such as the VA Vetext and VANotify try to provide some support to these Veterans who are over-burdened with their medical treatment. If you have not done so already, I would encourage you to sign up for the Veteran’s VA Vetext program if you are currently receiving medical treatment through a VA medical facility.
More information regarding the program is available here.