What digital tools do you use (or want) to improve your Veteran experience?

I don't use or want digital tools, as I don't feel the need for them. I would rather an actual person to access any needs I have.

I don't use any digital tools to improve my veteran experience. People matter more.

Tools are great, when they work. I would love to see the My HealtheVet website improved. There are often login issues. I try to check for summaries of visits and other personal items and the info is not there. Finding related health type items such as Veteran Travel Claims is impossible. Don't get me started on the Veteran Travel Claims process. The login process alone is enough to make a veteran give up. The claims are often rejected with little to no helpful information provided for the reason. It's often barely worth the effort. So, fix the websites. Hire some "real" programmers. I tested websites for nearly 20 years and the VA websites are some of the worst I have ever encountered.

Since I was first made aware of the website back 2012, I've used My HealthVet for several purposes: messaging doctors, downloading Blue Button Health reports, reorder prescription medications, appointments, and downloading any documentation that I may need or misplace. Recently, the VA developed a phone app; as it's not as functional as the website, but it is compatible that any appointments can be added to my phone calendar so I don't forget them. I can also renew prescriptions as well. Since COVID, I've had a few appointments via phone or video chat. Inasmuch as it is convenient, I prefer in person appointments, especially when they need to look at something.
The VA has made tremendous strides in adding technology for veterans; now if they could make it easier for doctors to document their notes so it doesn't detract from appointments. Since the inception of using computers at the VA, at least I don't have to lug my medical records from doctor to doctor.
It may not be perfect, but the VA has come a long way in the 30 plus years I've been using their services. Thank you VA.

It's not really the digital tools (or lack thereof) that are the problem, is it? - it's the lack of staff. I just used the online apt booking for the first time ever two days ago and the first apt available was still a month out. Don't get me wrong, I'm all about email and online stuff (I'm half deaf and Hate phones) so any time I can read something instead of trying to understand someone over the phone I am much better off, but all that is immaterial when there simply. isn't. enough. staff.

I do enjoy the remote telehealth system that is setup. Makes getting to appointments easier without a vehicle. Refilling of prescriptions at VA seem easier online.

I am very ok with the digital tools for my husband (the veteran) and they do work well most of the time. I would like to see more help for the spouses. My VA claims info is always down and doesn't help much with my medical at all. So that would help me.

I want to improve how to communicate with the VA. It has been really difficult getting answers. A one stop number or some type of virtual consultation would be great.

I would love to have a online digital forum for vets who love the VA medical system converse to help those who are seeking a solution to their care and to be proactive in a mindful respectful way that works for caregivers and patients alike.

Delbert Sutton USN

I use my laptop to renew my prescriptions but avoid the phone as much as possible, My time is too valuable to spend hours on hold just to make an appointment.