By now, you’ve heard about the coronavirus disease, known as COVID-19, that’s causing illness around the world.

Fortunately, VA is ready. We have plans in place to protect everyone who gets care, visits or works at one of our facilities.

For Veterans, families and visitors, that means your VA visit will be different for a while.

Call before visiting

If you’re a Veteran seeking medical care, call your VA health facility if you have symptoms of the virus. Or sign in to My HealtheVet and send a secure message. You may be able to get diagnosed and receive care through VA telehealth without having to come in at all.

If you visit a VA health care facility, you will be asked screening questions

VA health care facilities are adding protocols to ensure the safety of its patients and visitors. If you visit a VA hospital, clinic, community living center or other health care facility, you’ll be met at the entrance by a staff member. They will greet you and ask screening questions. Depending on your answers, a VA health care professional will assist you on the next steps of your visit. Some facilities, especially community living centers, may have visitor restrictions in place. Call before visiting so you’re aware of changes.

Leave time for screening

If you’re a Veteran coming in for an appointment, plan to leave home earlier than usual to allow time for the screening.

We’re doing all we can to make sure everyone in every VA facility — patients, families, visitors, staff and anyone else — stays as safe as possible during this situation.

For the latest VA updates on coronavirus and common-sense tips on preventing the spread of disease, visit https://www.publichealth.va.gov/n-coronavirus/.

For more information about coronavirus, please visit https://www.cdc.gov/coronavirus/2019-ncov/index.html.