What Is VA TeleRheumatology?

TeleRheumatology is a telehealth service offered by the Department of Veterans Affairs (VA) that connects veterans with rheumatology specialists through secure video appointments. This service is part of the VA’s broader telehealth initiative, designed to make specialty care more accessible, especially for veterans living in rural or underserved areas.

Rheumatology deals with conditions like rheumatoid arthritis, lupus, and other autoimmune diseases. These often require ongoing specialist care and timely access to medications. With TeleRheumatology, veterans can consult with VA-approved rheumatologists from home or a local VA clinic, reducing the need for long travel or long waits for appointments.

How TeleRheumatology Improves Access and Speed

Before VA TeleRheumatology, many veterans struggled to get timely specialist appointments and approvals for medications, especially when relying on private insurance. According to recent VA data, the average wait time for a rheumatology appointment outside the VA can exceed six weeks. TeleRheumatology appointments through the VA are often scheduled within two weeks, as highlighted by recent success stories.

Once a diagnosis is confirmed, VA providers can prescribe medications directly, bypassing some of the administrative delays common with private insurers. VA pharmacy benefits (38 CFR § 17.96) cover most rheumatology medications, and prescriptions can be filled at VA pharmacies or shipped directly to the veteran’s home.

How to Access VA TeleRheumatology Services

  • Enroll in VA Healthcare: If you’re not already enrolled, apply online at VA.gov or submit VA Form 10-10EZ. For help, visit your local VA facility.
  • Request a Referral: Ask your VA primary care provider for a referral to a rheumatology specialist. Specify your interest in a telehealth appointment if travel is difficult.
  • Prepare for Your Appointment: You’ll need a device with internet access and a camera. The VA can provide technical support or arrange for you to use telehealth facilities at a nearby clinic.
  • Follow Up on Prescriptions: After your appointment, check your VA health portal for prescription updates. Most medications are filled within days and shipped to your address on file.

For more information on VA healthcare enrollment and specialty care, see our explainers and VA claims hub.

Common Conditions Treated and Covered Benefits

VA TeleRheumatology covers a broad range of chronic and complex conditions, including:

  • Rheumatoid arthritis
  • Lupus (systemic lupus erythematosus)
  • Psoriatic arthritis
  • Ankylosing spondylitis
  • Vasculitis and other autoimmune diseases

VA pharmacy benefits cover disease-modifying antirheumatic drugs (DMARDs), biologics, and many specialty medications. If you are service-connected for a rheumatologic condition, you may also qualify for additional disability compensation. Check your rating or estimate a combined rating using our VA disability rating calculator.

Tips for Veterans: Maximizing Your Telehealth Experience

  • Keep your contact and address information up to date in the VA system to avoid delays in receiving medications.
  • Document your symptoms and any medication side effects to discuss during your telehealth visit.
  • If you encounter problems with scheduling or prescription delivery, contact the VA Patient Advocate at your local facility.
  • For chronic conditions, ask your provider about regular telehealth follow-ups to avoid gaps in care.

TeleRheumatology is just one example of how VA telehealth is expanding. For more on your healthcare and disability options, visit our disability ratings hub and topic explainers.