VA: Health And Benefits Customer Service

I have been using the app since the beginning of 2021. They have continually improved and updated since then and the updates have been helpful and the additional resources included in the app, such as messaging your actual, personal, local, medical providers and getting real-time responses in my experience on average 10 minutes or less. This is huge in helping veterans with social isolation or suicidal ideations and PTSD and other disabilities schedule appointments and reach out for care without physically talking to someone on the phone, but still being able to reach a VA employee who can schedule all the care needed on a case by case basis and tailor it to your personal needs. Since the amount of time a claim requires for processing from beginning to end is average 3-6 months they should consider upgrading to an even more in-depth system to show the veteran where they are in the process exactly without any assuming involved, the veterans next actions/steps to be done exactly, and a ballpark/estimated completion date would go a long way in improving the attitude of veterans towards the VA claims process. I believe it would eliminate some if not all of the uncertainty around the length of time the claim will be, and the feeling that the claim is not being handled or being given the attention it deserves, both would considerably reduce the amount of phone calls received daily pertaining to claims and status. 🇺🇸FYea

I was so pleasantly surprised by Dr. Blotchy and Nurse Mari Lopez (Torres). I have not gone to Women’s Health since Dr. Vu was brought back from her pregnancy leave. Dr. Vi is one of the most unsystematic, lacks empathy, straight up did not care for her patients, would not look you during your appointment and would hush you when you tried to express your concerns. Then after finishing on the computer screen she get up and walk you to the door, she seemed to be trying to treat her patients as a number. I was told my lasted VA WH NP as Hernandez, amazing Dr and person but she told me that Vu never even said hello to her or welcome, she would not say a word to her and that more than likely she would not stay. Now I was told Dr. Blotchy after going around in circles trying to get a Doctor to read my TX Tech Lab Results because I did not get to go back to TX Tech to get my results because my VA authorization only covers until the day of my labs but no following, that was a total torture being sent all over the VA, all I needed to make sure my Labs were ok and I was not dying, but VA did not seem to care until I received a call from WH Dr, Blotchy-Q clinic, Nurse Mari Lopez, she blew my mind by her care of me, she got ahold of my Labs and went over with me, she listened to me and even taught me a few things about reading labs, thank you so much Nurse Mari you are simply exceptional. A day later I received a call from the Dr. herself, wow, I almost cried it was the first time I was treated like I mattered since Dr. Rodgers sometime ago. Dr. B-Q also took her time to listen and understand hat I needed. These are the 2 Angels God has sent us to Women’s Health, thank you. Veronica Gallego

I’ve been trying, repeatedly calling about my referral for a Dentist closer to me outside of the VA. It had been approved by the dentist I saw at the VA. This has been going on since October last year and I’m at the point now, where I just can’t handle anymore stress. When I called the number I was given by the VA Dentist, I was told that if I don’t hear back on anything within a week or two about my referral, to call that number. I did so on numerous occasions and every time I was told that they should have received it by now from the dentist to call back in another week or two and then someone else answers the phone and it repeats itself and my last phone call to that number, I was told to just call the dentist office directly and talk to them. When I called directly, I was told that they could see in their system that I had been approved for the work I need done and they didn’t know why they had not received it yet to forward it to the office I called before. I was then told to call back in a week. When I called back, I was told they have no idea what happened and to just talk to my PCP about it. I’m done with this! I was already approved and apparently it shows this in their system, so how is my PCP going to do anything for me other than a referral to the dental clinic at the VA so I can start this whole nightmare again. A lot of things have improved some during the time I was absent from using the VA Health care, but one thing hasn’t changed and that’s the “paper shuffling” and everyone pointing the finger at someone else for being at fault. I don’t care who is at fault, I just want the dental care promised to me before my teeth are getting worse.

App is certainly quite alright, there are at times the that the system will be down due to errors and but I’m sure a little patient from the community would be greatly appreciated; just a unbiased opinion because truly the VA lack resources and employees to manage the app. That being said, it should truly be great if the app and the website could be synced within 24-48 hours apart or have a automated message that will direct us to use the website in case the app is down. It could also be implemented a option for users to make reports letting the IT team know and have an idea of what the issue might be and how it could be fixed, so that it could be taken care of immediately. Updates should be rolled out whenever possible and maintenance could be done weekly or biweekly depending on the available work force. I love the new veteran proof card, it would be amazing if we could get one on the app like the one on the main website. This should prove useful for the older veterans not great with technology, allowing them better access to using the most of their earned benefits!

I have only recently began using the VA app on my iPhone app literally today is my first experience utilizing it. I have installed it on my iPad device as well but have not used it on that device just yet. I plan to test it out on it and I anticipate that it should work nearly identically but simply larger layout with the obviously larger screen. So far I’ve only reviewed benefit information, checked on current prescriptions, ordered some refills and simply observed the UI and UX (User Interface & Experience) experience so far. To this point it appears quite well done with very crisp and responsive interaction especially compared with the current my health eVet website. Also very clean and clear design that seems to be quite intuitive which is delightful and assuring to see and experience thus far. Thank you to the designer, coders, and those responsible for funding this mobile application and it’s quite nice functionality!! I send that thanks with complete sincerely :)

I have been using the VA App since I became disabled in 2015. My Parkinson’s Disease caused me to forget many important details of my MRI Profession. My long term memory suffered mostly in my ability to do difficult mathematical calculations in my head very quickly. An ability critical for my profession. In 2015 I was unable to do 5th grade math. My short term memory was even worse. For the last 10 years my disease has progressed and I have watched the VA slowly change in every imaginable way. Every system and process slowly morphed into what I witness today as a monumental shift toward simplicity. Even my ability to write this Review is a testament to this fact. Best of all, I once felt like a number in every department I interacted with. It was a cold place to go. Today every process is simplified and my interaction with Healthcare Providers, and all teams who support them, love what they do. When people love what they do they also love those they care for. And I now visit a place of warmth, kindness, and charity I never thought I would experience. Magnificent changes by magnificent leaders.

Hey there, I just had to share something with you because it’s been such a game-changer for me. The Veterans Administration—yeah, the VA—has been absolutely incredible. I know they get a bad rap sometimes, but my experience has been nothing short of amazing. First off, they actually listened to me. I mean really listened. I came in with a bunch of problems I’d been dealing with, and they didn’t rush me or make me feel like just another number. They connected me with the right doctors—specialists who knew exactly what to look for and took the time to figure things out properly. And the tests they ran? I’ll be honest, some of them I didn’t even think were necessary . They sounded like something out of a sci-fi movie. But they were not only legit, they were fantastic—and so thorough. I’ve never felt so confident that someone was actually getting to the bottom of things. Here’s the thing, though: it’s not just the doctors. It’s every single person there. The clerk at the window? Unbelievable. The staff walking down the hallway? Unbelievable. Everyone—from the person who checks you in to the one who points you in the right direction—treats you like you matter. No matter who you are, you get the same respect and care. Honestly, it feels like some kind of luxury hotel experience. I’m talking Ritz-Carlton meets Hilton, but with concierge-level service. That’s how well they treat us. Equal care, highest regard, every single time. I’m just so grateful and had to tell someone. It’s rare to feel this taken care of, and they’ve really nailed it. Take care, and I hope you’re doing well! Warmly, Kent norton

It’s hard to remember what the appointment is for and the abbreviated Doctors title and department are hard to keep in mind. There should be some basic information listed like, ear, nose, knee, foot, or whichever area is concerned for an appointment. Not everybody has the Doctor title memorized. So if it’s a doctors appointment for hearing aides the reason for the appointment should be listed for an example, Audiologist(ear). I know some could be more complicated to list but when you don’t have all the doctor titles memorized and you have appointments for ear, knee, brain, or skin cancer it doesn’t make list the reason for the appointment and 98% of the time all I remember is that I have appointment of some type. Don’t get me wrong I know it might need an adjustment to the system for this automatically be listed like this but after having a brain tumor removed I have a hard time remembering a lot of things and remembering all the medical listings are harder than before. I know as I get older it’s going to get even harder. Thank you.

I cannot give this app 5 stars because it still isn’t what it can be. For instance, if someone served in multiple branches of service (i.e. Marines, Air Force), they don’t have the option of which branch logo would be represented on their profile. I have emailed around to find out how one changes this and was told that they didn’t know what I was talking about. Then there is the fact that they don’t accept foreign numbers. What about those of us that reside and/or work overseas? We cannot enter a true number. This becomes a problem when you need to have 2 factor verification. Then you have to download another app in order to do this. Finally, you should be able to download a copy of your records from here as well. Not only your VA records, but you should be able to get a complete copy of your Military Medical Records, as well, without having to send something through snail mail. This is very inconvenient, especially if you reside overseas.

I use the app almost daily to check the status of disability claims and messages from my doctor… Things of that nature. Often times Veterans may have more than one entry on their claims dashboard which the VA titles exactly the same. It would be a user-friendly option to give us, the Veterans the ability to “title” or rename the claims on our dashboards within the app so that we can more easily identify the claims we are looking at at a glance. For instance, I have two claims on my dashboard right now, and both of them are titled the exact same thing… Even though they are for two completely separate issues it would be nice if, for my own reference, if I could go in and name the claims two different things so that they would be more easily recognizable when I open the app. I appreciate taking the time to listen, hopefully this is something that can be done… I think it would be a nice user feature.

(Please read and upvote this review to help!) I don’t want to down-rate this program from 5-stars because the benefits and convenience in this app are outstanding! VA benefit verification letters, thank you, I use this more than you might think… Many benefits are available for veterans, if you can provide Benefit Letters, etc… Sometimes it can be, ”not worth it” , to setup benefits with the way Vets need to (for good reasons) prove their service or rating etc.!… Not anymore, this app lets you produce a benefit letter on the fly, 1-2-3 easy, almost perfect execution of this feature..!!! However, my ability to communicate with my, highest need to communicate to, medical (VA) service providers (doctors prescribing medications), is: Exceptionally, if not dangerously, difficult to execute as the user of this application… Perhaps I’m doing something wrong, but other than this review at the Apple App Store, I have found no way to seek assistance anywhere in the greater VA support phone numbers… (No, the 1-800 VA support line for online things does not have solutions) Please developer, help me inform you on the difficulties of communicating to my providers and some opportunities for improvement! Or tell me what I’m doing wrong! & Thank You!!

I truly believe the VA and its associated team of doctors are committed to helping and treating veterans that are in need of professional assistance. Doctors and staff members form a connection that eases the tensions normally associated with visiting a clinic or hospital. Especially for us veterans who are apprehensive of seeking assistance. Thank you for your service and support by providing a safe environment and a healthy cultural experience. In this case, I want to recognize Dr. Melissa Gonzalez at the Murrieta, CA branch for her excellent and exceptional expertise in providing optimal treatment in her field of expertise. I am truly grateful and honored to have her as my doctor. She is thorough, thoughtful, patient and caring. In addition, she’s a proud professional in her field and I am thankful that she committed herself of becoming the doctor she is today. Than you!

⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️ Outstanding Care and Teamwork at the VA! I would like to express my deepest appreciation to Dr. Shelia Kennedy and her entire PACT team for the exceptional care and dedication they consistently provide. Dr. Kennedy goes above and beyond with her compassion, professionalism, and thoroughness. She truly listens and ensures every concern is addressed with care and understanding. A huge thank you to Felicia Lewis with Care in the Community for her incredible commitment and dedication. She consistently goes the extra mile to ensure veterans receive the services they need with excellence and compassion. Her heart for veterans truly shines through in everything she does. Rhonda Fears deserves special recognition for her constant support with administrative needs. She keeps everything running smoothly and efficiently, making sure nothing falls through the cracks. And thank you to Bianca Hernandez for always responding quickly and kindly to secure messages. Her responsiveness makes a real difference. This entire team exemplifies what quality care looks like at the VA. They work together seamlessly, treat veterans with dignity and respect, and demonstrate a true spirit of service. I am beyond grateful for each of them!

It would be nice to be able to download my vaccination information to a .CSV , .PDF , file format for my personal records. The information is mine, about me, and therefore I should have access. Same goes for letters, Rx, messages. I think it’s my data and I should have the right to use it as I see fit. Other apps allow you to download your information. For instance, MyHealthyVet or whatever the name is called. Then the pharmacy refill section. It would be nice to sort active or inactive prescriptions. Usually I am looking to refill active prescriptions and not see an entire list of inactive prescriptions with my active prescriptions. It becomes cumbersome to sort through and find the active prescriptions you want to refill. Also, with your announcement that the Rx Refill App is going away, provide a link to the app you wish me to use. Or short instructions on how to get the app. For example, In the Apple App Store, you have to search by the Department of Veterans Affairs to find the plethora of apps available. Maybe check and make sure out of date apps are not being listed. This app needs improvement to make it useful and easy to find the correct information. Being able to save my info to my cloud drive or print is essential. As when at the Charles George VA Medical Center there are way to many dead zones to pull up the app. Also, the WIFI Guest feature is a nightmare to login, stay connected, and over filtered to the point of being useless. Well it is useless and then the going cellular network only is full of dead zones in the building. The censorship is deplorable as we are adults and children are not allowed. To think of all the veterans that fought to protect the Constitution and Freedom in the US only to get muzzled by their own government.

I’ve been using the VA: Health & Benefits app for a while, and overall it’s a solid tool for managing appointments, prescriptions, and claims. It makes it much easier to message my care team and keep track of my benefits without having to call or visit the VA in person. The layout is clean, and most features work smoothly. That said, there are still some small glitches from time to time — like pages that take too long to load or occasional login hiccups. I’d also like to see more integration between the health and claims sections for a more seamless experience. Even with those issues, this app is a big step in the right direction for veterans. It’s convenient, functional, and genuinely helpful for staying on top of care and benefits.

My wife and I had to start going to the VA and joining them because I used to use private medical services for the last 10 years never used the VA. We found it easy to navigate through the hospital by using their guys in the burgundy colored jackets, they’re at every intersection in the hallways because the place is like a maze and they’re very very helpful to tell you to get where you need to go. After that when you start going through the process, it’s Much more complicated. If you get a doctor that doesn’t know the system, but should know it. We are finding ourselves being redundant with my PA dock she keeps sending us places that don’t make any Sense over and over I wish you would get her job. Understood. You have to be persistent. You have to understand a hurry up and wait and it’s going to be a lot of a paper trail. And I mean a lot. Don’t give up if you work through all the hurdles, you will have to jump to get your benefits and you’ll get them, but don’t get in a hurry. So it’s five stars for the maroon jacket guys. It’s maybe three stars for my PA Doctor.

The Nurse practitioner I had for years all she gave me was Ibuprofen; this allows the VA to deny claims of pain and disability. When they are dismissive of injury and pain. And do fairly nothing to resolve issues, but destroys your organs instead. My new physician is better, but the VA is still lacking in what is will do for veterans heath. I walked around with a broken clavicle and had to get rotator cuff surgery, for a while and nobody saw it. Had to see an out side Dr. , saw an out aside neurology Dr for head issues, still fighting the VA for his diagnosis. The VA is all about not paying the veteran. Trying to find ways to not give you money. Adding back dated clames and increased percentage but it went back 10 yrs where the back dated pay??

This app is a game changer! I would give it 5 stars but in the last few months my appointments stopped populating in the App. I was using it to add my appointments directly to my calendar and to keep me on track. With all of the different appointments, times and dates it gets very confusing very quickly. If you can please fix the Appointments functionality on the App I would sincerely appreciate it. Besides the appointments the App is outstanding. I use it to see the status of my claims, track and refill my prescriptions, message my providers, download letters, and even track my payments history. Once the appointment functionality is working again I would say that this is one of, if not the most, important App on my phone.

The VA and its staff are doing a great service for our veterans. Everyone should understand that they are doing a great work especially because there are more veterans than there is VA staff. If it wasn’t for the VA medical care, I wouldn’t even have any medical care or help. I won’t say anything negative about the VA because of that. I’ve received the best care possible and I am treated very well and I am very grateful for that. I am thankful and appreciative for all that they do. When someone says to me thank you for your service. I respond with that it was my honor, privilege and duty to have served my country and it will always be my duty to this country till the day I die. Thank you to the VA.

Not to be sarcastic or make fun of the poor individuals who were fired, I’m also not a fan of DOGE, but it’s sad that this app has been an inactive thumbnail that sat on my screen for the couple years it’s been open. But when this whole budget and personnel cut started, it’s like the app suddenly turned into a fully functional robot that sends me notifications on a daily basis along with staff that send me emails regarding everything from medication, claims, and appointments. Don’t know if it’s the personnel cuts, the budget cuts, or just fat cutting in general; but I hope these improvements continue through the next few years!

Considering that the Va touts how they are the largest healthcare system in the country, the technology resources such as this app should be at the forefront of the medical community. Other services such as MyChart which is used by nearly every healthcare system that employs the epic system has a much more in depth user experience that actually allows us to see our medical information. There is no reason that we cannot make this happen. It’s time the VAHCS gets with the times and has a robust user interface for their veterans similar to the other private and public healthcare systems that we are not allowed to use unless given permission from the VA themselves.

The Veterans Administration since the dawn of time have been the back bone 🦴 of the military services. Regardless of the Branches in Question 🙋. I know personally that for the most everything the VA receive is either second hand 🖐, or out dated. FACT!!!!!!!! I rate The Veterans Administration with a 10 Stars ⭐️. Because, even though The Employees, Contractors, Management, etc. , struggles every day trying to maintain a smile 😊 while working under poor conditions, and being under paid. These people come to work everyday knowing it’s going to be and up hill battle to provide the products, and services needed. Not just for veterans, but for everyone that’s sick 😷, ill, and needing medical assistance. Thank You 🙏🏾, everyone around the world 🌎 that’s related to The Veterans Administration. I know my Thanking You want be enough that will resolve all the negative issues going on in The VA. Maybe, this is a START, You are always welcome 🤗 in my heart ❤️. Keep up the excellent work, Recognition is coming know that You haven’t been forgotten. Frankie L Carson

Tried a number of times without sucess to use new. Now forced to Or to go through all kinds of gyrations trying to get logged into anything that would give me my healthy vet and found a little success except for the last minute was able to send a secure message to my doctor about emergency condition don’t appreciate the program as it is it it causes much confusion and makes things extremely difficult for us to keep our heads above water with the system please adjust. If I weren’t feeling so bad right now I’d have a lot more to tell you but you need to look into the difficulty of this thing particular for for us old guys.

I’ve been using the VA health system for several years and have been fortunate enough to also have been able to use the existing medical infrastructure outside of the VA. I am feeling very grateful for having the opportunity to use the VA medical system. I find it easy to navigate, and the people I have worked with have all been exceptional and their commitment to service and as far as I can see their qualifications are as good as any other health system, I’ve ever been, and worked in or had access to. In all honesty, I think our country would be well served to have this level of care available as a citizen of the United States.

Not used friendly, too many redirects to get in, secure messaging is terrible, and the web version needs a lot of work which I’m sure you know. Tell less information and needs more information accessibility rather to make it look like a game. With the budget you would think you could hire some better programmers. I’ll wait a year or so before really using, if I do, because the desktop version gives more detailed options and you need a lot of work. I suggest hiring, onboard, or contract out across the spectrum of age and gender, (veteran and non alike) to continue to implement these new changes. Short version, the app is terrible and needs a lot of work. Keep trying you’ll get it.

The VA app, developed by the U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs, is an essential tool for veterans managing their health care and benefits. Its user-friendly design empowers veterans to take control of their well-being. Key features include easy appointment scheduling, prescription refills, and access to health records. Secure messaging enhances communication with health care providers, ensuring veterans stay informed. The app also simplifies benefit management by allowing users to check status, apply for new benefits, and manage claims. Overall, the VA app streamlines access to services, improves communication with the VA, and supports veterans in leading healthier lives, making it a vital resource for health care management.

As a veteran who has been dealing with the VA system for 26 years, I can honestly say that I am finally seeing positive changes. The new app is easy to use and makes it much simpler to access information, track claims, and submit travel reimbursement requests. The VA is not perfect, and there is still room for improvement, but I have seen a noticeable difference in how veterans are treated and how services are being delivered. For the first time in a long time, I feel like the VA is moving in the right direction. Thank you to everyone working to make things better for veterans.

I have noticed that the app is much better than before, it is stable and easy to manage. I would like it if they could clean the message section up a little, and maybe incorporate the apple health feature where lab results are explained and a meter is shown for those whom may not have access to apple health. I appreciate how well the VA app and apple health work together to make managing my health better. Hopefully, in the future, the VA can work together with fitness companies to give guided or recommended workouts or exercises to help with pain, fitness, or therapy. Maybe Apple Fitness, iFit, or one of the other fitness providers.

Logging in and out of this app is very inefficient. I have Face ID setting turned on, yet every time I log in, there are probably six or seven screens to navigate through just to get in, including “waiting to redirect” and needing to text authentication codes every time. And when you log out, there are 4 pages and prompts to get through just to leave. The messaging system needs some work too. It only shows a portion of sent messages, and when you click the down arrow to expand the window, it still won’t show you the full message. And for writing new messages, the main message box is irritating at best. Accidentally touching outside of the box makes the text go gray, and the screen jump up and down. The cursor is like a sick joke being played on me, and most of the “continue” buttons need to be pressed at least two or three times to activate. I downloaded the app because it’s supposed to be simpler than using the website, but that doesn’t seem to be the reality. And considering that a lot of us veterans are suffering from PTSD and high anxiety, I would hope that the developers could create an app that doesn’t give me a near panic attack every time I need to use it. Do better, please.

I go to check the status of my claim today and notice that the icon that directs me to my claims status page isn't there anymore. It tells me what my percentage is and how it breaks down but nothing about pending claims or appeals. Is it just me or will we not be able to access that information via this app anymore? It's a feature I used specifically because it was convenient, not to mention faster, than using a pc. How about putting our c-files online so we can access those as well? It would save an astronomical amount of time as well as material such as cd's, paper and all that logistical stuff that takes place when a Veteran requests their file. Just a thought. Hopefully this isn't a permanent thing. We need a "one stop does all" portal to use and it would be nice to have them in sync with each other. It would also be nice to remove all these third party apps that keep Veterans information on servers with poor security protocols. Lol this started as a question and turned into a rant. Hard not to do when talking about the bureaucracy that is the Veterans Benefits Administration.

I have been a veteran since 94. All this time they have done just less than the bare minimum. I was taken to VA Mather ER for possible stroke. When I got there by ambulance they told EMT’s to put me in wheel chair and leave me in the wait room. I sat there for nearly two hours just for triage. After four hours of nothing I asked what’s going on. I was told I need to think about other people and wait. That I’m still alive so whatever my health issue is it’s not important. I left went to civi ER and found out I have blown vertibrea in L-spine T-spine and the fusion in my neck shows the only good vertibrea in my C-spine was shot. A week later the VA neuro and neuro surgeon said I need immediate surgical repair before perm damage. The EMT’s called the next day apologizing for being told to dump me off like the VA told them to. My VA neuro docs told me to seek treatment at a civi hospital because the VA Oakland main office is evaluting if they will pay for my needed surgery on a service connected injury. Govt health care only works if the care is cheap enough. I convinced my children to never join the military out of fear they get hurt and get stuck with VA help. Congress doesn’t care if your a non-celebrity war (war that gets a lot of news coverage). I’m a gulf war veteran that was told to my face by Ani Berra (D-California) that he can’t help because congress never declared war. If you can, avoid VA health care. You’ll live longer and more comfortable. They refuse to give pain meds to me for my multi-vertibrea severe damage. I have zero drug or alcohol history in my 50+ years alive. More than 10 surgeries and zero pain meds or follow up care. They want me dead is all I can draw from their “care” for me.

It’s nice that we can see there are steps. It’s nice that there is an explanation as to what “can happen” in each step. Problem is, we still don’t have any transparency on what is taking place on OUR claim. My current claim stayed in step 5 for 60+ days before I finally got someone that could tell me why, and that was vague at best. I did find something extremely illuminating thought; he was able to tell me that there was a dilemma with part of it, but that nobody have even looked at it in almost 7 weeks. No entries, no movement whatsoever. What that tells me is that if something gets to a point where it looks like a little extra effort is going to be needed, pigeon hole it. What’s worse, my buddy with exactly identical claims and ratings filed the exact same thing I did a week AFTER me, and did a C&P exam 20 days AFTER me, and has already received a rating, and payments. You are busy. We get it. You are overwhelmed, we get it. But… first come first served means exactly that. No matter what, a claim should never be dumped for the sake of picking the low hanging fruit. As busy as you are, there will always be low hanging fruit, and you can’t ethically pigeon hole complicated files to attain it. That being said, thank you to all the dedicated people at VA, that have worked tirelessly to selflessly serve others. You are an inspiration, and a treasure. Everyone else; Tighten up! My friends are killing themselves waiting on you! //NOTHING FOLLOWS//

Messaging between veterans and the different departments in the VA has always been difficult, seeing that veterans need an appointment before messaging can open up to a certain department, and in addition, messaging is not a highlighted feature of this app or in any place, where you have to go searching for messages first on the VA page. To enhance this for veterans, please make a separate “Messages” button on the main screen that veterans can click on to get into their message inboxes. Then you should create a way for a veteran to click on the VA system (Denver or Cheyenne) that they are messaging, the department inside the selected VA, and then the doctor or staff member you want to. If the veteran doesn’t know what person, there should be a way to send a message to a general mailbox, which could be forwarded to the person in the department, and then this contact be saved so that the veteran can connect directly to them the next time they come on. It would also be a great feature for veterans to go to sick-call using the video option, instead of driving all the way down to the VA and waiting inside. There should be a doctor designated for video sick-calls and a nurse/scheduler on call. I also hope that there can someday be a doctor on call for video appointments during after hours and on the weekends. It seems that driving to the ER for having the flu is not something the staff at the ER appreciate getting, as they always push non-urgent patients out the door to see their regular doctors a few days later. Please see that our veterans get the care that they need and deserve.

The app is very helpful in being able to quickly look at your claim status and any upcoming appointments. However, it is severely lacking in showing some of the same important information that is available on the website, such as any documents being requested from you, to be submitted by a deadline. Many Vets may not check the website on a regular basis, if they are solely using the app to check their claim status. Also, with the horrendous pace of snail mail notifications from the VA, having that info available within the app, becomes doubly important to be able see it in a timely manner. Also, it would be of great help if there were notifications, or if a badge icon would appear, to show that there is an update/change to a claim in progress, instead of the incessant checking most vets will do in the app, or web page on a daily basis.

It’s frustrating that taxpayer-funded development has left the VA Health and Benefits app feeling so clunky and outdated in 2026, especially for secure messaging – a feature Veterans rely on heavily. Under Health > Messages > Start a new message: • You’re forced to pick a “care system” or facility from a dropdown, and for me, Birmingham VA shows up even though it’s unrelated to my current care in Atlanta/Georgia. Irrelevant facilities shouldn’t appear. • The provider dropdown includes old providers I haven’t used in years, with no simple way to remove or hide them. This clutters the list and makes selecting the right team unnecessarily difficult. Additionally, the subject line field is limited to just 50 characters – that’s terrible for describing issues clearly (e.g., trying to summarize neck pain, referral problems, or appointment details often gets cut off). It forces overly abbreviated or vague subjects, reducing message effectiveness. The entire secure messaging interface needs a complete revamp: better personalization (auto-filter active facilities/providers), editable contact lists, longer/more flexible subject lines (at least 100–150 characters like standard email), and an overall modern, intuitive design. Veterans deserve a reliable, user-friendly tool for non-urgent communication. Please prioritize these fixes soon – thank you

The most recent update prevents you from reading an entire secure message without switching to a desktop to read/reply to more than the first paragraph of any given message. There is also no way to search secure messages or view attachments most of the time and it regularly logs out but only relays that by becoming glitchy and not opening individual messages. You cannot schedule/request appointments from the App or view/order medications. You can’t share your health data. You can’t file travel claims either, so most vets continue to miss out on those benefits that should automatically be deposited after each appt anyway. Surely weaving a one click button next to each past appointment in the app is easier than creating the existing monstrously poor quality travel website that already got its “update.” You also cannot access/download records or labs. Like the VA claim website, the VA claim section of the app is not very useful. It takes longer to log in than to read the available claim information in this app. You can see a reductive status of pending claims and nothing of particular use. The app lacks basic stuff like the ability to chat with your actual healthcare team or the actual team processing your benefit claim. Like everything at VA, there are many apps/silos for various things that should all be consolidated into one actually useful application. It is hard to give up inefficiencies and everyone wants credit for doing their thing but the VA should focus on veterans and do better with its IT budget to use apps to reduce rather than generate redundancies. There should only be one VA app.

Both apps for VA Health and Refills are useless on iPhones. First, after enduring all the redirects you come to the page where you sign in. Once you sign in, you often get an error saying no internet connection. Which is untrue as you test your signal and it’s strong. I went with the apps because the browser website failed to work 90% of the time. I sure hope they fix these issues soon, as I’d like to check my appointments, message my doctor, and refill my medications. As of today, I have to deal with long waits on the phone as well as call backs. I would think that having a good operating system would be paramount to the VA. Not having a reliable system sure waste a lot of peoples time. Mine and the VA.

Feature Request: please enable users to Reschedule their appointments in the app. Issue: if a user cannot make an appointment, they need to reschedule it. However, the app only allows users to cancel the appointment. When an appointment is cancelled, there is no follow up from the VA, the user has to spend an hour on the phone trying to reach the right person to schedule the appointment again, and sometimes requires VA staff or do more paperwork by ordering another consult (for a specialty clinic). I understand one challenge is that various clinic use different calendars and their availability is not usually available in the online scheduler. When that occurs, AT LEAST send a message to that clinic notifying them that the user needs to reschedule. This way the time slot is available for another patient and the clinic will reach out to reschedule.

I needed access to app today but couldn’t sign in. I changed my password which signed me in just to have to use another device to use the camera to activate the QR on my other device and it says i don’t have the passkey that i can physically see on both device’s password manager. Now, they say i have to delete my account and recreate it. BUT, that takes 24 hours be it lets you initiate the deletion process via email. And who knows how long it takes to recreate the account again. So not only cant i access it today which i needed its is going to be multiple days before i can potentially access again. This is by far, the dumbest 2 step verification method process ever developed. I can’t image how many older vets or spouses just give up. All other apps that have my sensitive data use 2 step authentication but none of them are this ate up. This is the soup sandwich equivalent to password security. Unbelievable.

Here is a sample review for the VA app that helps veterans access their healthcare and benefits information: As a veteran, I have been using the VA app for a few months, and I have found it to be incredibly helpful. The app has made it much easier for me to access my healthcare and benefits information, as well as schedule and manage my appointments. One of the things I love about the app is the convenience it provides. I no longer have to wait on hold for long periods of time or navigate through a complicated phone tree to get the information I need. Instead, I can quickly and easily access my healthcare and benefits information right from my phone. Another great feature of the app is the notifications. I receive alerts when it's time for my appointments, and I can easily reschedule or cancel if necessary. The app also provides reminders to refill my prescriptions, which has been incredibly helpful. Overall, I highly recommend the VA app to any veteran who wants to simplify their healthcare and benefits management. It's easy to use, reliable, and provides all the information and tools I need to stay on top of my health and wellness. Thank you, VA, for creating such an excellent app for veterans!

I cannot comment on how the app is on a desktop as I have only ever used my iPhone. On my iPhone this app is overly difficult to maneuver. To the point that it almost feels intentional. You really have to search for options that should be front and center. And every selection requires a full refresh so you once again have to start a full search for what you are looking for. Too many selections are at the very bottom of the page and the number and location of notifications is overwhelming. I really shouldn’t have to scroll through yet another PACT Act notification just to compose an email… I am somewhat computer literate but for those who are 10-15 years older than me, I am quite sure that this overly complicated app is more than daunting enough to make it not worth trying to navigate. Perhaps that was the point.

The new update makes the app harder to use for the visually impaired because for instance in the request refill section the request button is so large that it covers the entire page making it almost impossible to view the medications list of course this is because of my settings in my iPhone but without my phone settings being large type I cannot see text otherwise I’m not sure what to blame the phone or the app But other apps don’t have this problem another issue is the old format was much better I’m locating what we needed without having to scroll and scroll and scroll and scroll and then flip pages only to flip back the home page should be a direction page only and not be cluttered with suggestions

I have been a VA patient since 1990. The new VA contact system, requiring everyone to use VA Health Connect, is impossible to use actually to contact your providers or VA clinics. If you dial any VA provider or clinic number that they have called you from and ask for a call back you are automatically diverted to the VA Connect operator, who knows where and is not trained to help the veteran but to prevent them from contacting the clinic or person directly. They offer to send a msg to the team or clinic for you and profess they can not connect you or provide a number that they can answer. Which results in the team or person getting the message to send the veteran another form letter saying they have tried to reach you and couldn't and if you don't contact them in 14 days your request will be canceled by the computer or another voice mail message asking you to call. This makes for a great state for Congress but does not help a veteran. Addressing it with providers results in we know but can’t do anything about it. Fix this system now. I just spent another hour trying and failing to reach the MyHealthy Vet Coordinator based on a message in the MyHealthy Vet msg system that said to contact them at my VA Care Facility. Petrie 1291

The VA app purports to allow access to the Vet’s medical record through My HealtheVet but search as I might, I can’t find any way to access that information. The login process took forever and involved entering my phone number three times and my SSN twice—hardly the paragon of a secure system, say nothing of the lack of digital efficiency. To top it all off, this app has been around form many years and several parts are still not working—no vaccine history, no benefits information just to name two. Between the egregious login process and the utter lack of functionality, this app is little more than a distraction. The VA will need to do much better to match the types and quality of apps coming out of the minds of 15 year olds. They’ve got a very long road ahead if they was to match the apps coming out of other health systems.

Let me start off by saying it’s great that there’s an easy to use app for Veterans to utilize when monitoring the status of claims, correspondence with Doctors, accessing letters and all sorts of pertinent information without the hassle of logging into a computer. My issue is with Veterans who have incurred a debt through the VA. There is no way (that I can see) to track payments towards their debt, or even see how much of the debt is yet to be settled. My specific issue is in regards to payback of ISP (Involuntary Separations Pay). This is a debt that is taken from disability compensation and paid back to DFAS. VA says that DFAS tracks it for them, and DFAS says the VA tracks it. Either way, the money is coming from the Veterans disability compensation and should be able to be tracked and monitored by the Veteran. Preferably on the app.

I love the convenience of the app for many things but I limited and somewhat censored my communications with my doctor once I learned that other people I work with through other programs in the the VA were privy to and reading them. These people are not health professionals and should not have any access to private conversations regarding my health that I was under the impression we’re protected. It was extremely weird to find out and I immediately decided to wait until appointments to discuss things. It’s unfortunate because it’s a mental health professional and we had a great rapport. Not only that but apparently an assistant type of employee reads them before the doctor does as well, and they go into your medical records. This may be fine and even customary, but not something I’m comfortable with.

I have used the VA going on 11 years now. I have tried to get in to see my primary care but there is only 1 provider for Springfield Il. It takes 2-3 weeks to get an appointment. In the mean time I have to use urgent care locally and that is no better than a band aid at best. I am being rated for a condition that is worsening and I can’t see why I cannot see a VA provider to get a simple referral or use a phone to get a referral for something I am being rated on. It’s 3 weeks for the VA provider appointment ent, another month to get a care in the community appointment. Then there are diagnostics that have to be done that take 4-6 weeks to do and then another appointment to discuss a plan that’s 2-4 weeks out. I really don’t see why I have to live with pain for 2-3 months before someone does something. There has to be a better way

Having every Disablity effect that is listed for Agent Orange exposure including a heart attack with a triple bypass , diabetes , erectile dysfunctionancy , just to list a few life changing affects that forced the retirement due to exposure in the 70’s of Agent Orange and who knows what else after getting a draft notice. All documentation is there and provided. Yet l it’s been a year and three months with a few Generic notes which I conclude are considered communication. Yet projected to be a year and seven months before the first lower ranking is decided , then months of lowball Communication through the VA website negotiations for lack of a better word . This is ridiculous way to support the front line protectors of the United States and her citizens. If the VA waits long enough the Vets requesting disability ranking and payment will be dead before decision is made.

Since I received my last bill for acupuncture and noticed that the VA did not pay and only offered the practitioner 1/3 of the going rate I am a little more than upset. I spent 4 months in PT through VACC and got very little improvement on left shoulder movement. I have never stopped doing my exercises/ stretches daily at home. One of the PT clinicians suggested that I seek out an acupuncture specialist and found out that the VA does not have an acupuncture specialist. I gained 30% more movement after the first two visits but there is not enough monetary help from the VA. I am next going to write Medicare to find out why I can’t get more monetary support for an alternative practice that actually helps Shame on the VA for not having an acupuncture specialist

The appointments section needs work. The medical department associated with the appointment is sometimes not shown, resulting in the need to call the VA, which in itself can be an exhausting exercise. Also always missing is any indication of lab work that may be needed before the appointment, so that should be added. Otherwise, one must go the frustrating telephone route. Maybe VA employees should be required to use the app and other such computerized tools as the BTSSS. In that way, they themselves could find the glitches and shortcomings veterans have to deal with and get them fixed. The overall information technology capability of the VA is average, at best.