VA Expands Access to Veterans’ Healthcare Data on Mobile Devices
May 05, 2020
The VA continues its effort to expand its electronic presence during this coronavirus pandemic while not only increasing telehealth services that remotely connect veterans to their healthcare providers from the safety of their own home, but by making it easier for veterans to take control of their health care in the palm of their hands. The VA is now offering VA health apps for mobile phones that allow veterans to securely access and connect to their health care data online via iPhone or Android mobile devices. This is a change as the VA used to only have health apps available for iPhone users, but this expansion will now help more veterans obtain access to their health information remotely and securely. The patient data access apps are iBlueButton and MyLinks, which are free health information exchange apps that allow veterans to manage their healthcare and set goals.
iBlueButton connects the VA’s MyHealthVet patient portal that provides guidance and other tools for healthcare management. Veterans will be able to view VA and Medicare information in one location. MyLinks enables data sharing and allows veterans to share health records, including family member records. Both apps utilize patient opt-in data sharing which means that veteran must authorize the apps access to their health information. This data sharing can also be turned off by the veteran at any time. However, it is important for every veteran to help keep his or her private health information safe by password protecting their device and using caution on public computers.
This latest improvement providing veterans with other smartphone operating systems, such as Android, helps fill a critical gap for medical records app access at a time when it is becoming increasingly important. VA Secretary Robert Wilkie stated that “[v]eterans having access across the board to mobile and web health app services increases interoperability and eases the flow of information, while keeping their personal data secure.” Data security and Veteran’s consent are essential to maintaining trust and credibility with our stakeholders.” This statement came shortly before the VA released a survey showing that veteran trust in VA healthcare has risen above 90 percent for the first time. For more VA apps that can help with overall health and wellness during this difficult time, please visit https://www.mobile.va.gov/appstore.