VAFinal Rule

Health Care Professionals Practicing Via Telehealth

HealthcareTechnology

Summary

This rule allows doctors and other healthcare providers at the Veterans Affairs (VA) to treat veterans using telehealth—video calls, phone calls, and secure messaging—instead of only in-person visits. The regulation makes it easier for veterans, especially those in rural areas or with mobility challenges, to access medical care from home.

Key Points

  • 1VA healthcare professionals can now provide care to veterans remotely through video visits, phone consultations, and secure online messaging
  • 2This regulation is especially helpful for veterans living far from VA medical centers or those who have difficulty traveling
  • 3The rule establishes standards to ensure telehealth care is safe, secure, and meets the same quality as in-person visits
  • 4Veterans can now choose telehealth appointments for many types of medical visits, from routine check-ups to mental health counseling
  • 5The regulation went into effect in October 2025 and applies across all VA healthcare facilities nationwide

Key Dates

Published

October 2, 2025

This summary is for informational purposes only. It may not capture all nuances of the regulation. Always refer to the official text for authoritative information.

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