What is the VA Telehealth Tablet Program?

The VA Telehealth Tablet Program is a specialized initiative by the U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs (VA) that provides eligible veterans with free tablets specifically designed for accessing VA healthcare services remotely. These tablets come pre-configured with VA healthcare apps and security features to ensure veterans can safely and easily connect with their healthcare providers from the comfort of their homes.

This program is part of the VA's broader commitment to expanding telehealth services and ensuring that all veterans, regardless of their location or mobility limitations, have access to quality healthcare. The tablets are provided at no cost to eligible veterans and include technical support.

Program Benefit: VA Telehealth tablets are provided free of charge to eligible veterans and come pre-loaded with VA healthcare apps, making it easy to connect with your care team.

Who Qualifies for the VA Telehealth Tablet Program?

Veterans may qualify for a VA Telehealth tablet if they:

Receive VA Healthcare

Are enrolled in the VA healthcare system and have a designated VA primary care provider or specialist.

Live in Rural Areas

Reside in rural or underserved areas with limited access to VA medical facilities.

Have Mobility Challenges

Have disabilities or health conditions that make traveling to VA facilities difficult.

Transportation Barriers

Face transportation challenges that prevent regular in-person visits to VA facilities.

What Can You Do with a VA Telehealth Tablet?

Video Appointments

Attend virtual appointments with VA doctors, nurses, and mental health professionals

Access Health Records

View your VA health records, lab results, and medication lists

Prescription Management

Request prescription refills and track medication deliveries

Secure Messaging

Send and receive secure messages with your healthcare team

Remote Monitoring

Share health data like blood pressure and glucose levels with your care team

Mental Health Services

Access counseling, therapy, and mental health support services

VA Telehealth Tablet Features

Feature Description
Pre-Configured Comes with VA apps already installed and configured
Security VA-approved security settings to protect health information
Data Connection Cellular data plan included for internet access
Technical Support VA technical help available for device issues
Accessibility Compatible with assistive technologies
No Cost Provided free to eligible veterans

How to Apply for a VA Telehealth Tablet

Step 1

Talk to Your VA Provider

Step 2

Complete Assessment

Step 3

Get Approved

Step 4

Receive Tablet

Application Steps

  1. Contact Your VA Care Team: Speak with your primary care provider or case manager about your interest in telehealth services
  2. Complete Telehealth Assessment: Your provider will assess whether telehealth is appropriate for your healthcare needs
  3. Submit Request: If approved, your care team will submit a request for a telehealth tablet
  4. Receive and Setup: Once approved, you'll receive the tablet with instructions for setup and use
  5. Training: VA staff will provide training on how to use the tablet and access telehealth services

VA Telehealth vs. Lifeline

Veterans can benefit from both programs:

Feature VA Telehealth Tablet Lifeline Program
Purpose Healthcare access only General communication
Device VA-configured tablet Various smartphones/tablets
Service Healthcare apps only Talk, text, data
Cost Free Free or discounted
Can Have Both Yes, veterans can participate in both programs

Additional VA Technology Resources

Visit VA Telehealth Veterans Resources