My HealtheVet Update | April 26, 2017

As you get older, you are at greater risk for certain illnesses and diseases. While you can't prevent aging, you can help detect and prevent these illnesses and diseases early on. Immunizations can help you fight off illnesses like the flu and whooping cough. Talking with your health care provider about what immunizations and screenings are right for you is important to your health. Learn more.

Veterans at over 100 VA Medical Centers (VAMCs) across the country are now able to use the new Veteran Appointment Request (VAR) App to request or schedule certain appointments online. VAR is a web application that is also accessible via smartphones, tablets and desktops. Learn more.

Have you been told that your cholesterol is too high? If so, you are at increased risk for a heart attack or stroke. Cholesterol is a type of fat (lipid) that the body needs for many important functions, such as producing new cells. High cholesterol is caused by eating a diet that is too high in cholesterol and saturated fat or by having an inherited condition that causes elevated cholesterol levels. A blood test can determine whether you have high cholesterol. Learn more.

May is Mental Health Awareness Month. My HealtheVet has the tools and resources for Veterans to help maintain and improve their Mental Health. Considering Professional Help? is a video course on the Mental Health page in My HealtheVet that addresses many of the common questions that prevent Veterans from reaching out for help, including what types of services are available, the different kinds of mental health providers who work for VA, and what you can expect from treatment. Your responses are confidential ; the data will not be saved or sent anywhere. Learn more.

When you use My HealtheVet, you’re in good company. Veterans and caregivers use My HealtheVet to manage their health care, refill prescriptions, exchange Secure Messages and even learn about different conditions and ailments. Check out the number of Secure Messages sent, the number of My HealtheVet users, and even the number of refills requested and more on our updated My HealtheVet data page.