Recently, I called my local VA Medical Center to see about getting in to see my primary care doctor. Imagine my surprise when a real person not only answered the phone but was ready to help.
As I spoke with Cindy, the nurse that answered my call, it became evident that the VA had launched a new service call “ Clinical Contact Centers”. Cindy was able to ask me some questions, triage the condition I had called regarding and determined the best course of action for me to take.
What a great idea. With this service you can receive care from VA without stepping foot into a VA facility. This service isn’t yet available everywhere, but it is in The Active Age distribution area.
To use it, call 1-800-574-8387. The call will probably route to the VA medical Center in Topeka. Don’t be thrown off by that. Listen to the prompts and simply dial 3 to speak with a nurse. You will be connected with a nurse practitioner who is there to assist you. The service is available 24 hours a day 7 days a week except federal holidays.
Use the service for immediate answers when:
• You feel ill and unsure about going to an emergency room or clinic.
• You have a reaction to a medication.
• You have questions about your prescriptions.
Of course, if you are having a medical emergency, call 911.
James Bower is the operator of VeteransBargains.com.
