Health services

In an emergency, call 911 or go to the nearest VA or non-VA emergency room. We provide immediate treatment for serious, life-threatening health emergencies such as severe chest pain, seizures, heavy uncontrollable bleeding or moderate to severe burns.

During a medical emergency, if you believe your life or health is in danger, call 911 or go to the nearest emergency department right away!

A medical emergency is an injury, illness or symptom so severe that a delay in seeking immediate medical attention would be reasonably expected to be hazardous to life or health. VA Boston HCS has an Emergency Department open 24/7 on the West Roxbury Campus, 1400 VFW Parkway, West Roxbury, MA 02132-4927

We also offer urgent care for injuries and illnesses that are not life-threatening, but which shouldn’t wait for an appointment, such as strep throat, sprained muscles, and skin and ear infections.

Urgent care services to eligible Veterans are available at our Brockton and Jamaica Plain campuses:

• Brockton Urgent Care, open 24/7, 940 Belmont Street, Brockton, MA 02301-5596
• Jamaica Plain Urgent Care, Monday – Friday, 7:30 a.m. – 4:00 p.m., 150 South Huntington Avenue, Boston, MA 02130-4817

Urgent care is also available from a VA Community Care Network (CCN) urgent care provider. Find a VA CCN urgent care clinic near you at https://www.va.gov/find-locations.

For more information on selecting the right type of care, visit Choosing Between Urgent And Emergency Care | Veterans Affairs (va.gov). 

As you age, we offer a range of medical and support services to help you stay as healthy, active and independent as possible. We also offer help to family members and caregivers who may support you.

We assess your situation and condition to decide which outpatient geriatric services are right for you or a senior Veteran in your care, and coordinate that care. Our team of specialists provides geriatric services that include:

• Functional status assessment
• Cognitive impairment assessment
• Medication review
• Medicine and nursing
• Psychology, psychiatry and social work
• Physical and occupational therapy
• Caregiver education and support

To access care, ask your primary care provider for a referral.

Please bring all medication bottles and pillboxes, a photo ID (such as your Veteran’s ID card or a driver’s license) and your health insurance information with you to your first Geriatrics appointment. We encourage you to bring a family member or caregiver, if applicable. If you are transferring from a health care provider outside the VA, it is helpful if you bring your medical records with you.

Learn more about VA long-term care

Care we provide at VA Boston health care

• Office and surgical management of benign, malignant cases with genetic counseling. 
• Diagnosis and treatment of fibroid, endometriosis, incontinence or prolapsed genitalia.
• Abnormal uterine bleeding, PCOS, ovarian cyst.
• Pre and post-menopausal hormone therapy, birth control, IUD, Nexplanon,  tubal surgery, Infertility.
• Complicated Vulvo-vaginitis  and abnormal Pap smears .

We preform the following types of treatment:

• Hysterectomy vaginal, abdominal,  radical and laparoscopic.
• Ovarian cystectomy, oophorectomy,  salpingectomy, tubal ligation.
• Vulvectomy and groin node dissection.
• Vaginal reconstruction and incontinence surgery.
• LEEP cone biopsy , colposcopy, and pessary fitting.

How to Make an Appointment

If you aren't currently being seen by Gynecology, you can be referred by your primary care provider for an initial consultation. If you are already being followed by Gynecology, please call the clinic directly at 857-364-4841

Learn more about our Gynecology surgeons at VA Boston health care

The VA Boston Healthcare System pharmacy provides Veterans with convenient, efficient service, making it easy to get your medications and medical supplies. You can:

• Pick up new prescriptions in person
• Refill prescriptions online and by phone or mail
• Safely dispose of medicines

At this time, Pharmacy is emphasizing a mail-order system, but you can pick up prescriptions in person at the medical center campuses:

• Outpatient Pharmacy will honor emergent prescription needs for in-person pick up, such as post-surgical, emergency department and discharge medication needs
• Other medications and supplies will normally be mailed

Veterans may request refills and renewals by:

• Contacting the prescription refill line at 1-857-364-4419 and press 2
• Mailing in refill slips
• Requesting through My HealtheVet – www.myhealth.va.gov   

Please allow 10-14 days for prescription delivery by mail. Veterans may request expedited shipments and may request changing routine medications from 30 day fills to 90 day fills by contacting the prescription refill line at 1-857-364-4419 and press 2.

Please visit MyHealtheVet for information about any prescription you may be taking.

Learn more about the Pharmacy at VA Boston Healthcare System.

Your VA primary care provider will work closely with you to plan for all the care you need to stay healthy and well throughout your life, including immunizations and vaccinations. They will also work with family members or caregivers who support you.

Primary Care provides ongoing, routine medical care for patients, such as:

• Annual exams
• Initial diagnoses
• Preventive care
• Patient and family health education

Your primary care team also coordinates many other care and services you may receive, including:

• Labs and blood work
• Mental health care
• Women's health care
• Radiology and other diagnostic imagery
• Social services
• Telehealth
• Other specialty care and services

Except for medical emergencies, primary care is provided only through scheduled appointments.

Emergency Services are provided only by the Emergency Department on the West Roxbury campus. However, for urgent conditions that are appropriate to be treated on an outpatient basis in a primary care clinical setting, same-day or next-day appointments in primary care are available.

Patient Call Center

The Patient Call Center is a very important part of primary care, providing ready access to the primary care team. Patients may use this system to communicate with the team, receive clinical advice or answers to questions, request renewal of medications, and to make or change a clinic appointment. All patients enrolled in primary care have access to this service.

To reach the Patient Call Center, dial 1-800-865-3384 -- available 24 hours per day.

We offer women’s health services to meet your specific needs such as disease screenings, mental health treatment, recovery from military sexual trauma, maternity care and female-specific medical equipment.

Our women's health program offers complete health care for women Veterans of all ages. Our primary care providers specialize in women’s health and work closely with specialists in gynecology, obstetrics, female urology, oncology, medicine, radiology, surgery and breast illness. Our services for women Veterans include:

• Ultrasounds, mammograms, Pap and HPV tests
• Mental health care and counseling
• Lifestyle wellness services
• Menopause treatment, including hormonal therapy
• Family planning, contraceptive care and infertility evaluation

Learn more and connect with the Women Veterans Program Manager. 

Women Veterans Call Center

The Women Veterans Call Center provides women Veterans information about VA services and resources, benefits and eligibility. The toll-free line is available Monday through Friday, 8:00 a.m. – 10:00 p.m. Eastern Time and on Saturdays, 8:00 a.m. – 6:30 p.m. Please see the Women Veterans Call Center website or call 855-VA-WOMEN -- 855-829-6636. Call, chat or text are all available.

We help Veterans on their recovery journey through outpatient and inpatient services. Our residential facility helps Veterans deal with substance abuse, homelessness, mental health and unemployment through its 24-hour therapeutic and educational programs. VA Boston Healthcare System substance use disorder programs include:

• Rehabilitation
• Health maintenance
• Residential treatment
• Domiciliary program for homeless veterans
• Transitional housing with job counseling and outpatient treatment
• Outpatient groups, individual, couples or family counseling
• Outpatient methadone and suboxone treatment 
• Community support

Learn more about our VA treatment programs

Our medical center and clinics provide consultation, evaluation, and treatment for a range of issues that may impact your mental health or emotional well-being. You may even be able to get certain mental health care if you aren't otherwise eligible for VA health care. Same-day mental health care is available for Veterans who need it. Our confidential outpatient services include individual and group therapy for:

• Psychiatric disorders such as schizophrenia, bipolar disorder and depression
• Marriage and relationship problems
• Post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD)
• Anxiety, addictive behaviors, and personality disorders
• Substance use disorder
• Aggressive or self-harming behaviors

In addition, specialized programs are available for returning Veterans and for women veterans. Inpatient care is also available for Veterans in need of intensive treatment. 

Our residential/transitional programs can provide temporary housing to Veterans while offering treatments for a wide range of mental health concerns.

Learn more and connect with a care coordinator

Veterans in need of emergency assistance can call the Veterans Crisis Line at 1-800-273-TALK (8255) and press 1. Veterans can also the Emergency Department at the West Roxbury Campus 24/7.

During normal business hours, Veterans can also be evaluated urgently at:

Jamaica Plain Urgent Care Clinic, 857-364-5250

Brockton Urgent Care Clinic, 774-826-2318

West Roxbury Emergency Department, 857-203-5425 or 857-203-5426

The VA Boston Healthcare System offers timely access to care for military sexual trauma.  Military sexual trauma refers to sexual assault, sexual harassment, or other threatening, offensive, or unwanted sexual advances, activities, or remarks that you experienced in the military. Our goal is to help you improve your quality of life with strategies to manage emotions and memories related to your military sexual trauma. Our services include:

• Mental health care, including outpatient, inpatient and residential treatment
• Treatment for PTSD, depression, substance use disorders and anxiety disorders 
• Physical healthcare, for all conditions caused or worsened by MST
• Free, confidential consultation regarding healthcare concerns, treatment needs and referrals
• Assistance with questions related to eligibility for services and billing for care related to MST

For questions related to care for Military Sexual Trauma, you can contact the VA Boston MST Coordinators, who can meet with you over the phone, via VA Video Connect, or in person at the Jamaica Plain campus of the Boston VA.

Anne Banducci, Ph.D. 617-435-5956
Leslie Wright, Ph.D. 857-364-3611 

Learn more about military sexual trauma care at VA Boston.

If you have symptoms of PTSD after a traumatic event, we can help. We offer assessment and treatment support such as private counseling, group therapy and medication. It’s never too late to get help.

Post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) is a mental health problem that some people develop after experiencing or witnessing a life-threatening event, like combat, a natural disaster, a car accident or sexual assault. It’s normal to have upsetting memories, feel on edge or have trouble sleeping after this type of event. If symptoms last more than a few months, however, it may be PTSD. We can help you with effective treatments and support services, such as:

• Psychiatric and psychological counseling
• Services for Veterans who are homeless
• Treatment for addictive disorders
• Transition and care management for post-9/11 combat Veterans of Operation Enduring Freedom (OEF), Operation Iraqi Freedom (OIF), and Operation New Dawn (OND)

Learn more about PTSD

If you’re struggling with a mental health problem—or just need to talk with someone—we can help. We offer treatment and support such as therapy, alternative treatments  and medications when needed.

Good mental health is a vital part of your overall wellness. Our psychiatry teams offer consultation, evaluation, and treatment to help you with a range of mental and behavioral health problems, including:

• Depression (including sadness and grief), anxiety (including worry and nervousness) and personality disorders
• Addictive behaviors and substance abuse
• Post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) and combat-related stress disorder
• Emotional issues like anger management and relationship challenges, confused thinking, memory problems, and invasive thoughts or ideas
• Aggressive or self-harming behaviors

Veterans in need of emergency assistance can call the Veterans Crisis Line at 1-800-273-TALK (8255). You can also visit the Emergency Room at our West Roxbury campus 24/7.

Same-day mental health care is available for Veterans who need it. During normal business hours, Veterans can be evaluated urgently at:

Jamaica Plain Urgent Care Clinic: 857-364-5250

Brockton Urgent Care Clinic: 774-826-2318

West Roxbury Emergency Department: 857-203-5425 or 857-203-5426

Routine outpatient mental health services are also available directly or through a referral from your primary care provider.

We work with behavioral health providers and community organizations to help you and your family during times of crisis. We offer:

• Suicide prevention care coordinators
• Suicide prevention case managers
• Gun safety locks

Mental health services at VA Boston offer same-day access to mental health care for Veterans who need it. Our emergency department on the West Roxbury campus is also open 24/7 for Veterans with urgent mental health care needs outside of regular business hours.

Additionally, VA offers mobile apps that support many aspects of mental health and wellness. Visit https://mobile.va.gov/appstore/mental-health to learn more. 

Veterans and their loved ones can always call VA’s Veterans Crisis Line at 1-800-273-8255 and Press 1, chat at www.veteranscrisisline.net, or text 838255, 24 hours a day, 7 days a week, 365 days a year.

Learn more and connect with a care coordinator

We diagnose, evaluate and treat your asthma, allergies and non-HIV immune deficiencies. Our services include:

• Skin tests, blood tests and other exams to identify food, drug, insect, pollen, animal, dust and other allergies
• Prescribing and managing allergy medications that can ease your symptoms by reducing your immune system response to the things that cause your allergic reaction
• Performing asthma tests to measure lung function and see how much air moves in and out as you breathe
• Prescribing long-term and quick-relief asthma medications to reduce inflammation and open your swollen airways
• Specialized treatments for your immune deficiency disorders

To access care, ask your Primary Care team for a referral.

VA Boston also offers an innovative asthma treatment called Bronchial Thermoplasty, which has been proven to show an improvement in quality of life for severe asthma patients. BT is a safe, outpatient procedure using mild heat to reduce excess muscle tissue in the airways, thereby reducing airway constriction during an asthma attack. Unlike daily asthma medications, BT continues to provide long-lasting benefits for patients, including decreased asthma attacks and fewer emergency room visits. As with any procedure, there are risks and individual results may vary. The most common side effect of BT is temporary worsening of respiratory-related symptoms.

If you face or have had an amputation, our team will support you with thoughtful, compassionate care.

If you’ve had a major limb removed, our specialists can create a health care plan to help you to live independently. Our support services include:

• Physical, occupational and recreational therapy
• Nutrition, wellness and mental health counseling
• Prosthetic support to help you choose your artificial limb and use it effectively
• Orthotic support and services
• Limb loss education and training to help you with daily living, like coping techniques, mobility tips, driving skills and scar care
• Medical and surgical consultations with other specialties

• Weekly Amputation Care Clinic, Wednesdays and the 2nd and 4th Thursdays of the month at the West Roxbury Campus

• Telehealth Amputation Care Clinic for Veterans who receive their primary care from other facilities in VA New England health care

• Monthly Amputation Support Group, the first Thursday of each month at West Roxbury Campus, from 10-11 a.m. occurring virtually for Veterans with limb loss, their family members and caregivers

• Amputation Peer Visitor Program is available throughout your care

• Adaptive sports and recreational therapy programs

Learn more about the VA amputation system of care

We diagnose and treat conditions affecting your hearing, speech or balance. These include hearing loss, tinnitus (noise or ringing the ears) and dizziness—also speech, language, voice or swallowing disorders.

Our Audiology and Speech Pathology clinic provides diagnostic and rehabilitative services, VA compensation and pension examinations, and screening for employee hearing conservation. We offer a full range of audiology and speech pathology services, such as:

• Hearing and balance evaluations
• Selection, management, and repair of hearing aids and assistive listening device assessments
• Evaluation, programming, and management of cochlear implants and bone-anchored implants
• Evaluation and treatment for auditory processing disorder
• Services that help with speech, language, fluency, voice, cognitive communication, swallowing, stuttering, and laryngectomy (surgical removal of the larynx, which contains your vocal cords)
• Dysphagia evaluation, including modified barium swallow (video swallow) and fiberoptic endoscopy
• Care of special populations in palliative care, or with neurogenic communication issues, head and neck cancer or spinal cord injury
• Compensation and Pension exams for VA benefits

For Veterans with VA issued hearing aids, there is a Hearing Aid Repair walk-in clinic at the Jamaica Plain Campus for hearing aid problems/repairs on Monday and Wednesday mornings from 8:00 a.m. - 11:30 a.m.

You can also call  857-364-4730 to request a postage page mailing label be sent to you for repair-by-mail or use one of our repair drop boxes:

• Jamaica Plain - Main building near screening station mounted on a stanchion
• Brockton - Building 3 lobby right hand side on the wall
• West Roxbury - Building 3 at patient main entrance, left side on the wall

Just  place device(s) in a labeled and sealed envelope or bag (not a box- it won't fit inside the drop slot), and include a note with the Veteran’s name, last four digits of SSN, phone number, return shipping address and a description of problem.

Learn more about VA hearing aids

Bariatric surgery is an approach to help you improve your health and quality of life by losing weight.

We provide a team approach utilizing comprehensive services to promote healthy weight management.  The Veteran could expect care from the following disciplines: Gastroenterology, Medicine, Nutrition, Psychology, Social Work, and Surgery.  Some of the common surgical procedures done include:

• Gastric Bypass Surgery
• Gastric Banding Surgery
• Robotic assisted surgical procedures

Available at these locations:

West Roxbury VA Medical Center

Learn more about our Bariatric Surgeons at VA Boston health care

How to Make an Appointment

If you aren't currently being seen by Bariatric surgery, you can be referred by your Primary Care Provider for an initial consultation. If you are already being followed by Bariatric Surgery, please call the clinic directly at 857-203-4023.

We offer advanced vision care and blind rehabilitation services to help you live independently. These may include vision-enhancing devices and technology as well as visual skills and related training.

Our low vision outpatient clinic can assess your needs and provide a rehab plan tailored to your personal goals. Our team of specialists and social workers will work with you to find the right aids and services. Our clinic services include:

• Comprehensive eye exams
• Visual skills assessments
• Assessment and referrals for specialty care
• Adjustment counseling
• Optical and visual aids
• Guidance on how to develop visual motor and perceptual skills
• Training to help you manage daily activities with your vision loss, including leisure activities and personal safety
• Blind rehabilitation services

• Compensation & Pension exams and other benefits

We provide COVID-19 vaccinations to Veterans, their spouses and caregivers, CHAMPVA recipients and VA staff.

Learn more about COVID-19 vaccines at VA Boston and see clinic schedules.

If you’re diagnosed with cancer, our team will work with you, your primary care doctor, and other health care providers to develop a specialized treatment plan. We offer personal, compassionate and expert care, with services such as:

• Surgical removal of tumors and other cancerous tissue
• Immunotherapy, which helps your body’s natural defenses destroy cancer cells
• Chemotherapy, which uses powerful drugs to fight cancer
• Radiotherapy, which uses high-energy radiation to kill cancer cells and shrink tumors
• Palliative care, to reduce pain and control other symptoms and side effects, like nausea

Designated as a Comprehensive Cancer Treatment Center, patient referrals come from primary care providers at VA Boston HCS as well as many other regional VA facilities. On average, nearly 300 patients per month receive treatment -- most in an outpatient setting.

To access care, ask your primary care team for a referral.

Our cardiology specialists offer advanced treatment and care for conditions affecting your heart and blood vessels, including heart disease, stroke, heart rhythm disorders and high blood pressure. 

We perform noninvasive and minimally invasive tests and procedures that check, support and improve your heart health. We’ll work with you to develop a personalized treatment plan and treat you with the most effective medications. Our services include:

• Evaluating you for coronary heart disease, heart-valve disease and heart defects
• Determining how well blood flows through your heart vessels or find the cause of your heart failure
• Treating your heart vessels with nonsurgical or minimally invasive operations that open and support them through balloon angioplasty or stent placement
• Noninvasively monitoring you for changes in heart rhythm, using electrocardiograms (EKGs or ECGs), portable Holt monitors or ultrasound
• Performing surgical treatments, such as pacemaker implants or cardiac catheterization (inserting a long, thin tube into an artery or vein)

To access care, ask your Primary Care team for a referral.

When treatment of your heart condition calls for surgery, our cardiovascular surgery service offers expert consultation, treatment and care.

VA Boston Healthcare System cardiac surgeons treat disorders of the heart.  Our team of experts provides comprehensive care, using surgical approaches including minimally invasive surgery.  Common procedures include

• Surgical Coronary artery revascularization (CABG)
• Aortic aneurysm repair
• Aortic valve replacement (AVR) including transcatheter aortic valve replacement (TAVR)
• Mitral valve Repair and Replacement (MVR)
• Surgery for Atrial Fibrilation
• Minimally invasive coronary revascularization
• Minimally invasive valve surgery
• Initiation of Extracorporeal membrane oxygenation
• Closure of Interatrial or interventricular communications in the adult
• Sternal fixation with plates
• Pericardial striping

We treat the following conditions: 

• Coronary artery disease
• Aortic aneurysms
• Aortic and mitral valve disease including endocarditis
• Congenital cardiac anomalies in the adult
• Severe Cardiac and respiratory failure
• Unstable sternum
• Chronic pericarditis

Learn more about our Cardiac Surgery Staff

How to make an Appointment

If you aren't currently being seen by Cardiac surgery, you can be referred by your Primary Care Provider for an initial consultation. If you are already being followed by Cardiac  surgery, please call the clinic directly at 857-203-6202

Chiropractors work closely with your health care team to diagnose and manage muscle and joint conditions, including problems in the back, neck and other areas.

Doctors of Chiropractic (DCs) are licensed independent practitioners (LIP) in the VHA who provide examination, diagnosis, treatment and management of neuromuscular and musculoskeletal conditions using non-pharmacologic and non-operative methods. Chiropractors utilize standard medical evaluation procedures along with biomechanical assessment to establish a diagnosis and formulate a management plan. They consult with other health care providers and refer patients in accordance with accepted medical indications. Chiropractic treatment includes a number of options such as patient education, therapeutic exercise, lifestyle recommendations, and other interventions such as joint manipulation and mobilization, soft tissue therapies, and physical modalities. Chiropractors may also be trained and licensed to deliver a number of interventions currently classified as Complementary and Integrative Health (CIH) therapies such as acupuncture, dry needling, biologically based preparations, and mind-body therapies. 

To access care, ask your Primary Care team for a referral.

Doctors in our intensive care units (ICUs) treat patients with serious illnesses or injuries, such as life-threatening infections, severe burns, brain injuries, and organ failure. Our critical care doctors (called intensivists) and nurses provide you with a full range of services, including:

• Monitor your heart rate, blood pressure, and breathing with cardiac and oxygen telemetry
• Help your lungs work using a mechanical ventilator
• Provide nutrition through a feeding tube in your vein, nose or mouth
• Drain urine from your bladder using a catheter
• Give fluids and medicine through your vein using an IV pump
• Help prevent blood clots in your legs by using inflatable compression wraps and boots

If you’re eligible for VA dental care, we offer a full range of quality dental services, including:

• Routine exams and teeth cleaning
• Restorative procedures, including fillings and crowns
• Comprehensive surgical care, including extractions (pulling teeth) and oral cancer screening
• Routine and advanced prosthodontic care, including bridges, dentures, and dental implants
• Routine and advanced periodontal care, including root canals, gum treatments, and supporting bone care
• Oral and facial reconstruction surgery to repair damage from traumatic injury or serious illness

Click here to learn more about eligibility for VA dental care.

Not eligible for VA dental care? The VA Dental Insurance Program (VADIP) offers discounted private dental insurance for Veterans and family members who meet certain requirements. Click here to find out if you're eligible and learn how to enroll in a VADIP plan that meets your needs and budget.

Our dermatologists offer expert treatment for a range of conditions that affect your skin, hair and nails—from acne to psoriasis to skin cancer. We also offer skin cancer screening and education.

We diagnose and treat medical conditions relating to the skin, hair and nails. Our care and services include:

• Medically necessary treatments for skin conditions, such as skin cancer or rashes
• Specialized treatments for acute (short-term) and chronic (long-lasting) skin conditions, including psoriasis, eczema, warts and fungal illnesses
• Evaluation, biopsy and treatment of cancerous or pre-cancerous skin conditions, like abnormal moles and lesions
• Laser procedures for vascular malformations, scar revisions and tattoo removal
• Other special dermatological procedures, such as photodynamic therapy, ultraviolet light treatment, and facial volume restoration in special patient populations
• Teledermatology (a telehealth resource), which gives patients quick access to expert opinions
• Referrals for complex conditions

To access care, ask your Primary Care team for a referral.

We offer treatment for type 1 and 2 diabetes. We work with you, your family and caregivers to help you live a healthier life through treatment, monitoring, diet and education.

We offer many medical and support services to help you manage your diabetes, such as:

• Self-management, education, and support classes
• Insulin therapy and blood-glucose meter training
• Diabetes survival skills that include sick-day management, lifestyle changes, nutrition advice and cooking classes

We provide caring, expert treatment for diabetes and disorders of the endocrine, hormonal, glandular and metabolic systems.

We diagnose and treat hormone imbalances and other endocrine system problems that can create or complicate serious medical conditions such as:

• Thyroid or parathyroid disorders
• Hyper- and hypo-calcemia
• Osteoporosis and metabolic bone disease
• Pituitary disease
• Hypogonadism
• Adrenal disease
• Diabetes
• Obesity

Our endocrinologists can:

• Measure the level of various hormones in your body
• Measure your blood glucose level
• Determine the cause and proper treatment of endocrine and metabolic disorders
• Provide transgender hormone management

To access care, ask your Primary Care team for a referral.

Our gastrointestinal (GI) specialists offer screening and treatment for conditions affecting your GI tract, gallbladder, liver and pancreas—like reflux, Crohn’s disease, hepatitis and pancreatitis.

As a referral center for VA New England, we care for approximately 500 to 600 patients in our outpatient clinic each month, and perform in more than 2,500 endoscopic procedures annually. We treat a broad range of health concerns, including conditions in your esophagus, stomach, intestines colon, and other parts of your digestive system. We can also test and treat other organs, like your liver, pancreas and gallbladder. Care and services we provide include:

• Colonoscopy, esophagogastroduodenoscopy (EGD), and endoscopic retrograde cholangiopancreatography (ERCP), which use an endoscope (a long, flexible tube with a small camera on the end) that lets us examine your digestive system
• Endoscopic ultrasound, which uses high-frequency sound waves to create images that help us diagnose and evaluate digestive and lung diseases
• Manometry study, which tests how well your esophagus is working
• Small bowel capsule endoscopy, which uses a tiny wireless camera that takes pictures as it moves through your digestive system
• 24-hour pH study, which measures how much stomach acid is flowing into your esophagus and helps us assess conditions like severe heartburn and acid reflux
• Evaluation of positive fecal occult blood testing
• Treatments for chronic liver disease and Hepatitis C
• Management of gastrointestinal problems

To access care, ask your Primary Care team for a referral.

If you have a diagnosis of anemia, lymphoma, leukemia or another blood cancer or disorder, we support you with expert care and treatment.

Hematology and Oncology diagnose and treat cancers and blood-related disorders. At the VA Boston Healthcare System these specialty sections work closely together and share a treatment area. We offer an extensive program of patient care, education and research with a staff of physicians, fellows and nurse clinicians. Designated as a Comprehensive Cancer Treatment Center, patient referrals come from primary care providers at VA healthcare systems across the region. On average, we treat about 290 patients per month -- most  in an outpatient setting. Our hematology and oncology services include:

• Chemotherapy
• Blood and platelet transfusions
• Mediport flushes to clean and maintain the small medical appliance inserted under your skin, making it easier to inject drugs and draw blood
• Evaluation and treatment of blood disorders and cancer
• Dedicated outpatient infusion center, working closely with radiation oncology, interventional radiology, general surgery, diagnostics, palliative care and social services
• Bone marrow biopsies, to see whether your bone tissue is healthy and making a normal number of blood cells

To access care, ask your Primary Care team for a referral. A Hematology or Oncology specialist will then manage the your care.

Our laboratories provide a full range of clinical and diagnostic testing services. Our laboratory and pathology services include:

• Study of blood, urine and other bodily fluids for illness management
• Testing for infectious diseases
• Cytopathology (study of unusual cells) and surgical pathology (study of tissue removed during surgery)
• Autopsy services

Going to the lab for bloodwork?

When you visit one of our labs to have your blood drawn, you will be asked to present your VA identification card or other identification that has your full Social Security Number (SSN) on it. In addition, our phlebotomists are required to ask you to recite your full name and SSN as an extra measure of patient safety.

Please follow any dietary restrictions that your doctor may have requested -- such as fasting -- for your bloodwork.

Our specialists offer you advanced care for kidney-related diseases like chronic kidney disease, high blood pressure and fluid and electrolyte problems. We also provide dialysis and related support.  

Our team of kidney doctors (nephrologists) actively manage all aspects of adult kidney disease, kidney and bladder stones, renal hypertension (high blood pressure caused by kidney disease), and mineral and bone disorders. This specialty is also frequently known as renal services. We provide inpatient and outpatient care, including:

• Dialysis -- inpatient and outpatient
• Home patient monitoring
• Kidney transplant evaluation
• Kidney disease education

In addition, this service has been active in clinical research projects for more than 25 years. Its investigators currently participate in research areas of Chronic Renal Disease and High Blood Pressure.

To access care, ask your primary care team for a referral.

Our specialists evaluate and treat conditions and diseases of the brain, spine, and nervous system, including headache, stroke, Alzheimer's disease, epilepsy, Parkinson’s disease and other conditions.

We provide inpatient and outpatient services for chronic diseases and disorders that affect your brain, spine, and the nerves that connect them. Our neurologists read electroencephalogram (EEG) recordings, which measure the electrical impulses brain cells use to communicate with each other. We evaluate and treat many neurological illnesses and disorders such as:

• Neuropathy (nerve damage), myelopathy and other spinal cord injuries, and radiculopathy (pinched nerves)
• Parkinson’s disease, epilepsy and multiple sclerosis
• Stroke, dementia and degenerative diseases
• Other neurological conditions

To access care, ask your Primary Care team for a referral.

We have  two board certified neurosurgeons on staff who are able to handle complex and routine neurosurgical conditions.

Our team can treat:

• Brain tumors
• Meningiomas
• Lumbar stenosis
• Cervical stenosis
• Spinal instability

Available at these locations

West Roxbury VA Medical Center

How to Make an Appointment

If you aren't currently being seen by Neurosurgery, you can be referred by your primary care provider for an initial consultation. If you are already being followed by Neurosurgery, please call the clinic directly at 857-203-6198

Learn more about your Neurosurgeons at VA Boston health care

Our nutrition experts work closely with you and your care team to help make sure you’re getting the nutrition you need to get and stay as healthy as possible.

Our registered dietitians can help you maintain or improve your health with good nutrition tailored to your needs. Through group, individual and telehealth sessions, we provide nutrition education and counseling in areas such as:

• Cardiovascular and heart health
• Chronic kidney disease
• Diabetes (including gestational diabetes)
• Eating disorders and digestive health
• Pregnancy and postpartum nutrition
• Weight management

To access care, ask your Primary Care team for a referral.

Our ophthalmology specialists diagnose and provide medical and surgical care for conditions that affect your eyes—like cataracts, glaucoma, macular degeneration and diabetic retinopathy. 

Available at these locations

Jamaica Plain VA medical center

Care we provide at VA Boston health care

At VA Boston, our ophthalmologists provide highly specialized care for a broad spectrum of patients with both routine and complex eye disease.

We treat conditions like

• Cataracts
• Glaucoma
• Diabetic retinopathy
• Macular degeneration
• Retinal tears and detachments
• Uveitis
• Eyelid and orbital tumors
• Corneal pathology
• Adult strabismus

How to make an appointment

If you aren't currently being seen by Ophthalmology,  you can be referred by your primary care provider for an initial consultation. If you are already being followed by Ophthalmology please call the clinic directly at 857-364-5795.

Learn more about our Ophthalmic surgeons at VA Boston health care

Our optometrists offer you routine eye exams, preventive vision testing and treatment for conditions like glaucoma. We also provide prescriptions for eyeglasses and other assistive devices.

Care we provide at VA Boston health care

Comprehensive eye care with a focus on vision correction and screening for ocular disease.

We treat the following conditions

• Ocular inflammation
• Glaucoma
• Dry eye
• Near-sightedness/far-sightedness

Available at these locations

• Brockton VA Medical Center
• Jamaica Plain VA Medical Center
• Lowell CBOC
• West Roxbury VA Medical Center

How to Make an Appointment

If you aren't currently being seen by Optometry, you can be referred by your primary care provider for an initial consultation. If you are already being followed by Optometry, please call the clinic directly at 857-364-5796

Learn more about our Optometrists at VA Boston health care

Our orthopedists offer advanced care and treatment for issues related to muscles, bones and joints, including arthritis, disorders of the muscles and bones, tendon and ligament repair and joint replacement.

The orthopedic surgery team at VA Boston provides comprehensive and patient-centered care for bone, joint, muscle, tendon, and ligament injuries or conditions.

Our team perform the following treatments:

• Hip, knee, and shoulder replacement including the innovative anterior hip approach and same-day joint replacement
• Tendon and ligament repairs of the hand, elbow, shoulder, and knee; both basic and complex
• Fracture fixation
• Minimally invasive arthroscopic surgery of the shoulder, knee, and wrist
• Musculoskeletal tumor treatment

Learn more about or Orthopedic surgeons at VA Boston health care

Available at these Locations

Jamaica Plain VA Medical Center

West Roxbury VA Medical Center

Bedford VA Medical Center

How to make an Appointment

If you aren't currently being seen by Orthopedic surgery, you can be referred by your Primary Care Provider for an initial consultation. If you are already being followed by Orthopedic surgery, please call the clinic directly at 857-364-4720.

We provide a comprehensive range of care for Veterans experiencing problems with their ears including hearing loss, balance issues, facial nerve disorders and chronic infections, nasal and sinus disorders, salivary gland disorders, thyroid and parathyroid disorders, head and neck tumors including state of the art reconstructive surgery and surgical treatment of obstructive sleep apnea.

We treat conditions like

• Nasal obstruction and chronic sinus infections
• Benign and malignant tumors of the mouth  and throat
• Obstructive sleep apnea surgery including Inspire hypoglossal nerve stimulator
• Surgery of chronic ear disease and deafness.

Available at these locations

Jamaica Plain VA Medical Center

How to Make an Appointment

If you aren't currently being seen by Otolaryngology head & neck surgery,  you can be referred by your primary care provider for an initial consultation. If you are already being followed by Otolaryngology, please call the clinic directly at 857-364-3660

Learn more about Otolaryngology surgeons at VA Boston health care

Palliative care focuses on comfort, quality of life and reducing suffering. Hospice care is a type of palliative care offered to patients with life-threatening illness under certain conditions.

Our palliative and hospice care services support you and your family as you cope with a life-threatening or terminal illness, such as heart failure, chronic obstructive lung disease, cancer, advanced kidney, lung, liver or heart disease, or progressive neurologic disease. Palliative care works to provide comfort, reduce suffering, and improve the quality of life for patients being treated for serious illnesses. Hospice care focuses on helping patients with terminal illnesses to manage the final stages of their lives. Our inpatient and outpatient palliative and hospice care services include:

• Pain and symptom management
• Emotional, spiritual, and psychosocial support for you and your family
• Help with practical issues that include an advance directive (living will), health care power of attorney, funeral arrangements, and applying for VA death and burial benefits
• Education to help you and your family make informed health care decisions and know what to expect as your health declines
• Bereavement care to help surviving family members during the grieving process

To access care, ask your primary care provider, specialist provider or social worker for a referral. 

Learn more about inpatient palliative care consultation at the West Roxbury campus.

Learn more about our Hospice and Palliative Medicine Fellowship Program.

Learn more about our hospice and palliative care inpatient unit. 

Frequently asked questions about hospice and palliative care -- National Institute on Aging

Physical therapy, occupational therapy and kinesiotherapy can help restore movement and function if you have been disabled by injury or disease.

If you’re living with or recovering from an injury, illness or chronic condition that limits your mobility and independence, we can help. Our physical, occupational and movement therapists and assistants combine therapeutic exercise, counseling, education and training to help you improve your health and quality of life. Our services include:

• Pain relief and joint mobilization
• Movement and exercise therapies to improve your strength, endurance, balance, and coordination
• Mobility assessment and training with wheelchairs, scooters, and walking devices
• Life skills training and activities to help you maintain the highest level of independence and functionality
• Aquatic therapy to manage chronic pain
• Evaluation and treatment for a wide range of medical, orthopedic, psychosocial, and neurological conditions

Kinesiotherapy involves an evaluation and a program of exercise therapy and training to help improve a patient's strength, endurance and mobility.

Occupational therapy is a health and rehabilitation program that assists people to live life to its fullest by building skills for a better life.

Physical therapy helps people improve their movement and physical function, manage pain and other chronic conditions, and recover from and prevent injury and chronic disease.

Some services may be available virtually through VA Video Connect. Ask your care team for details.

Plastic and reconstructive surgery can restore function and appearance after damage from disease, burns, traumatic injuries, congenital and developmental conditions and other causes.

Our plastic and reconstructive surgeons perform surgery to improve body function, or correct facial and body abnormalities caused by birth defects, injury, disease or aging. We also perform cosmetic surgery to create a more normal appearance and improve self-esteem. Our services include:

• Surgical repair of congenital deformities such as cleft lips and palates
• Skin cancer surgery to remove malignant moles, lesions and tumors from your skin
• Breast reduction and reconstruction surgery
• Skin grafts to treat burns, injuries or illnesses, which involves removing skin from one part of your body and grafting it to another

To access care, ask your primary care or specialty provider for a referral.

How to Make an Appointment

If you aren't currently being seen by Plastic surgery, you can be referred by your primary care provider for an initial consultation. If you are already being followed by Plastic surgery , please call the clinic directly at 857-364-4840

Learn more about our Plastic surgeons at VA Boston health care

Our podiatry specialists evaluate and treat a wide range of injuries, diseases and disorders that affect your feet and ankles—from ingrown toenails to inflammation to diabetic foot ulcers.

After years of walking, running, marching, jumping, rappelling and parachuting, many Veterans experience trouble with their feet and ankles. We can help treat those problems so you can continue to enjoy an active lifestyle. Our podiatry services include:

• Arthritis care for inflamed, swollen, or damaged joints
• Foot and ankle fracture treatment, repair of cartilage, torn tendons and ligaments
• Injections to reduce pain and swelling
• Joint arthroplasty (surgical repair or reconstruction) and replacement
• Minimally invasive surgery and post-surgical rehabilitation
• Foot health maintenance procedures (bunion removal, resurfacing, and nail trimming)

To access care, ask your Primary Care team for a referral. 

Learn more about our Podiatry Surgeons at VA Boston healthcare

We provide and help you use medical aids, hearing aids, state-of-the-art adaptive home equipment and other equipment to help you preserve and increase your mobility and independence.

VA is the world’s largest and most comprehensive provider of sensory aides and prosthetic devices. Veterans enrolled in the VA Boston Healthcare System and referred by a physical medicine and rehabilitation physician can receive the full range of services and equipment, including:

• Artificial limbs and surgical implants, including artificial joints and pacemakers
• Wheelchairs and other medical devices
• Aids for Veterans who are blind, have low vision, or are hearing impaired
• Adaptive equipment and modifications to make your vehicle or home more accessible
• Other devices and services to help increase your mobility, dignity, and independence
• Clothing allowance for Veterans with devices that damage their clothing

Here are some useful links for more information:

Automotive adaptive equipment 

Clothing Allowance

Home Improvement and Structural Alterations (HISA)

Our pulmonary medicine team treats diseases and conditions that affect the lungs and breathing, including asthma, tuberculosis, chronic obstructive pulmonary disease, acute respiratory distress syndrome and sleep apnea.

If you find it difficult to breathe or sleep, our pulmonary (lung) specialists can help! At the VA Boston Healthcare System we offer inpatient and outpatient consultative services, pulmonary procedures -- including advanced bronchoscopy -- pulmonary function tests, sleep and allergy evaluations and treatment, and respiratory therapy. We provide education, exercises and treatments including:

• Oxygen therapy to help you stay active and breathe better
• Pulmonary rehabilitation to build your strength and increase lung capacity
• Healthy diets to help you manage your weight and improve energy
• Strategies to help you increase your feelings of control, optimism, and self-esteem
• Tests to measure your lung function, lung volume, and blood gas

To access care, ask your Primary Care team for a referral.

The radiation oncology service works with your health care team to target cancer safely and precisely using radiation therapy.

Radiation oncologists specialize in using high-energy radiation to kill or damage cancer cells and either destroy tumors or control their growth. The Jamaica Plain campus of the VA Boston Healthcare System hosts the only Radiation Oncology Service in VA New England and is accredited through the American College of Radiology. Our doctors sometimes use radiation therapy in combination with surgery, chemotherapy or other cancer treatments. The radiation therapy you receive will depend on cancer type, tumor size and location, and your general health. Our services include:

• Intensity modulated radiation therapy (IMRT), which uses computers to deliver precise radiation doses that match the 3D shape of your tumor
• Intracranial stereotactic radiosurgery (SRS), which uses targeted radiation to treat a brain tumor or lesion while minimizing radiation effects on healthy brain tissue
• Stereotactic body radiation therapy (SBRT), which uses precisely focused radiation to treat tumors in your lungs, spine, liver, lymph nodes or other soft tissues
• Low-dose rate definitive and salvage brachytherapy, which use low doses of radiation to treat prostrate cancer
• Image-guided radiation therapy (IGRT), which uses detailed images to help focus radiation on affected areas, improve outcomes and shorten treatment

For more information, ask your oncology care team.

We offer radiology and imaging services to diagnose and treat many medical conditions. Our services include:

• X-ray
• Ultrasound
• Mammography (mammograms)
• Computer tomography (CT)
• Positron emission tomography (PET)
• Magnetic resonance imaging (MRI)
• Nuclear medicine
• Bone density testing
• Fluoroscopy
• Angiography

VA Boston is equipped with the most advanced imaging technology available, and offers advanced interventional radiology services with many highly specialized procedures.

The radiology team consists of both technologists and radiologists. Each technologist is trained specifically for the test performed. The radiologists are medical doctors who interpret the resulting images. After they review your images and medical history, the radiologists send a report of the findings to your doctor who ordered the test. Usually you will not meet with a radiologist during your appointment. He or she will speak with your doctor about any significant findings or to learn more about you.

As we are an affiliate of Boston University School of Medicine and Harvard Medical School, teaching is an important part of our mission. Our radiologists are regularly involved in teaching and supervising medical residents.

We provide long-term care to help you and your family when you’re dealing with a disability, chronic (long-lasting) illness, terminal illness, or serious health issues related to aging. Our long-term health care services include:

• 24/7 nursing and medical care
• Physical therapy
• Help with daily tasks like bathing, dressing, making meals and taking medicine
• Pain management and palliative care to relieve suffering and improve quality of life for people with serious illnesses
• Hospice care to provide comfort and compassionate care for people in the last phases of an incurable illness
• To learn more about the different types of extended care that VA provides, see our guide to long-term services and support.

Learn more about VA long-term care

Our doctors treat inflammation, stiffness or pain in your muscles, joints and tendons. Common rheumatic illnesses include:

• Juvenile idiopathic and infectious arthritis
• Lupus, gout and scleroderma
• Myositis
• Osteoarthritis and rheumatoid arthritis
• Vasculitis
• Other regional musculoskeletal problems

When Should You See a Rheumatologist?

Watch this video for more information.

How to Make an Appointment

Appointments with the department of Rheumatology require a referral by your primary care physician.

Patient Education Material Links

Here are some useful patient education resources, both from VA and from other credible sources. VA does not endorse or maintain non-VA materials or websites. We are continually expanding resources, so check for new materials...

PTSD tied to autoimmune disorders

About arthritis

American College of Rheumatology

Arthritis Organization

The sleep medicine service diagnoses and treats your sleep problems, including trouble sleeping, breathing difficulties while sleeping, snoring, teeth grinding and jaw clenching.

At various points in our lives, all of us suffer from a lack of sleep. But, if you are spending enough time in bed and still wake up tired or feel very sleepy during the day, you may have a sleep disorder. We can help. Our sleep specialists can:

• Diagnose and treat sleep apnea and other sleep disorders
• Monitor your blood oxygen levels and heart rate
• Study your brain waves during sleep
• Evaluate possible causes for your excessive sleepiness
• Conduct sleep tests performed at home or in the lab
• Work with your doctors if you need surgery or dental appliances to help you get a good night’s sleep

For more information, ask your VA Primary Care team or visit Path to Better Sleep - Veteran Training (va.gov).

If you are trying to quit smoking or want to stop using tobacco, we can help you with support, resources and programs.

You can quit smoking or chewing tobacco! Our goal is to provide support and strategies to add to optional nicotine replacement therapy prescribed by your primary care doctor. These include:

• FDA-approved medications to manage nicotine withdrawal and the urge to smoke.
• Counseling in person or by phone.
• Tobacco Cessation Quitline for individual counseling and strategies -- call 1-855-QUIT-VET (1-855-784-8838), 9 a.m. to 9 p.m. Eastern Time, Monday through Friday.
• SmokefreeVET text message program for daily advice and interactive support -- text VET to 47848 or visit smokefree.gov/VET to sign up for SmokefreeVET in English. For Spanish, text VETesp to 47848 or visit https://veterans.smokefree.gov/tools-tips-vet/smokefreevetesp.
• Stay Quit Coach mobile app to help you quit smoking and stay smoke-free -- visit https://mobile.va.gov/app/stay-quit-coach to download.
• Information on community-based resources and educational materials.

Learn more about how to quit or ask your VA Primary Care team for a referral.

If you have a spinal cord injury or disorder, our specialists provide coordinated care throughout your life. We work to help you achieve your goals for independence, productivity and quality of life.

The VA Boston Healthcare System provides the full continuum of care to Veterans and active-duty service members with a spinal cord injury or disorder, including rehabilitation, acute care and sustaining care  through a comprehensive, multidisciplinary model. Our sustaining care services for Veterans with SCI include primary care, preventive care, ongoing rehabilitation needs, medical management, outpatient care, home care and long-term care. The VA Boston SCI Center is the hub site covering all six New England states as part of the SCI hub and spoke network within VA New England. Our experienced primary care providers are trained to check for problems more common in people with spinal cord injuries, such as:

• Pressure ulcers
• Pneumonia
• Blood clots
• Bladder and sexual issues
• Constipation and other gastrointestinal problems
• Sexual issues

Learn more about the VA spinal cord injuries and disorders care system

Here are some helpful links for VA Boston Veteran patients and their caregivers:

• VA National SCI Home Page
• SCI/D Educational Information

If you are having surgery, we make sure that your procedure and follow-up care are safe and high-quality.

Surgery, otherwise known as General Surgery  is a surgical specialty that focuses on alimentary canal [GI Tract] and abdominal contents including the esophagus, stomach, small intestine, large intestine, liver, pancreas, gallbladder, appendix and bile ducts, and often the thyroid gland.  We also deal with diseases involving the skin, breast, and hernias and perform endoscopic procedures such as gastroscopy and colonoscopy.

We treat the following conditions

• Anti-reflux- laparoscopic, robotic, and open procedures for reflux and hiatal hernia management.
• Breast- male breast care
• Colon and Rectal Surgery- laparoscopic and open colon/rectal resection
• Endocrine- parathyroidectomy, thyroidectomy, adrenalectomy
• Gallbladder-benign and malignant disease including cholecystitis, gallstones, polyps
• Spleen – laparoscopic and open splenectomy
• Liver, pancreas, and bile duct benign and cancer surgery
• Hernia- laparoscopic and open incisional, inguinal, umbilical, ventral
• Surgical Oncology- dealing with cancer of all portions of the gastrointestinal tract and para-thyroid; thyroid glands

Learn more about of General surgery surgeons at VA Boston health care

How to Make an Appointment

If you aren't currently being seen by General surgery, you can be referred by your Primary Care Provider for an initial consultation. If you are already being followed by General Surgery, please call the clinic directly at 857-203-5764

We perform chest surgery (also known as thoracic surgery) to treats conditions involving your chest, airway and esophagus.

We provide patient-centered data driven care for veterans with conditions involving the lungs, esophagus, pleural space, pericardium, and thymus.

We provide treatment for:

• Pulmonary Nodules / Lung Cancer
• Esophageal cancer
• GERD / Hiatal hernias
• Mesothelioma
• Thymic cancers

Learn more about out Thoracic Surgeons at VA Boston health care

Available at these locations

West Roxbury VA Medical Center

How to make an Appointment

If you aren't currently being seen by Thoracic surgery, you can be referred by your Primary Care Provider for an initial consultation. If you are already being followed by Thoracic Surgery, please call the clinic directly at 857-203-6200.

We evaluate, diagnose, and treat a wide range of urology diseases and conditions that include kidney stones, erectile dysfunction, urinary incontinence, prostate cancer and more. We provide you with medical care, surgery, and minimally invasive procedures for health issues that affect:

• Bladder
• Female urogynecologic health
• Infertility
• Kidneys
• Male reproductive organs
• Ureter and urethra

Learn more about our Urology Surgical Staff

How to Make an Appointment 

If you aren't currently being seen by Urology, you can be referred by your Primary Care Provider for an initial consultation. If you are already being followed by Urology, please call the clinic directly.

Note: Please bring any applicable non-VA records or X-Rays with you when coming to your Urology appointment.

Our expert team diagnoses and treats diseases and conditions that affect arteries, veins and blood circulation.

VA Boston Healthcare System vascular surgeons treat illnesses of your arteries and veins.  Our team of experts provides comprehensive care, using surgical and endovascular (minimally invasive) approaches.  Surgical procedures are performed in our state-of-the-art hybrid OR suite at the West Roxbury VA campus.  Common procedures include

• Lower extremity bypass surgery
• Endovascular treatment of peripheral arterial disease (angioplasty/stent)
• Carotid endarterectomy
• Trans-carotid artery revascularization (TCAR)
• Aortic aneurysm repair including endovascular aortic aneurysm repair (EVAR), thoracic aneurysm repair (TEVAR), and complex fenestrated endovascular aneurysm repair (FEVAR)
• Hemodialysis access
• Treatment of varicose veins and other venous disease (including office-based sclerotherapy treatment)

How to Make an Appointment

If you aren't currently being seen by Vascular surgery, you can be referred by your Primary Care Provider for an initial consultation. If you are already being followed by Vascular Surgery, please call the clinic directly at 857-203-6200.

Learn more about your Vascular surgeons at VA Boston healthcare system

Learn more about Vascular surgery at VA Boston healthcare

We provide support and assistive devices, including wheelchairs, scooters, walkers and canes, to help you preserve and increase your mobility.

We train you in the proper use of your wheelchair or other mobility devices to increase your wellness and improve your quality of life. Our team works with you to:

• Assess your individual need for mobility, which may include lightweight manual, sports or power wheelchairs, or other assistive devices
• Optimize correct wheelchair seating and positioning, including when applicable...
  • Cushion selection
  • Pressure mapping to evaluate the source of pressure ulcers
  • Custom-molded cushions and wheelchair backs
• Achieve maximum function and independence
• Promote good posture, breathing, digestion, and tissue health
• Prevent complications and additional injuries

Long Term Follow Up Guaranteed!

VA Boston Wheelchair and Seating Clinics provide lifelong service for all Veterans served in our clinics. Our program will repair damaged equipment, or replace equipment when it is beyond repair or when it is due for replacement.

Virtual Care:

If the Veteran or caregiver has access to Veteran Video Connect (VVC) on their smartphone, tablet or computer, there is a possibility that a portion of the wheelchair and seating visit could be conducted virtually. The program encourages Veterans to inquire about this virtual clinic option at time of scheduling.

How to Schedule with Wheelchair and Seating Clinics:

• Veterans can call the clinic and self-refer if they feel an evaluation is indicated.

• Veterans can obtain a referral from their primary care doctor or another specialty provider.

After a traumatic injury that negatively affects their function, many Veterans begin participating in adaptive sport programs. VA Boston Healthcare System offers many programs of its own and also teams with community partners to provide a variety of sports, including...

Summer Sports:

• Kayaking
• Cycling
• Surfing
• Rowing
• Fishing
• Sailing
• Golf

Winter Sports:

• Nordic
• Alpine        
• Snowboarding

Wheelchair Sports:

• tennis
• basketball
• softball
• soccer

Criteria for Participation

All injured active-duty service members and disabled Veterans are encouraged to be involved in some sort of active leisure lifestyle post-injury. To become a participant you should:

•  Be enrolled at the VA Boston Health Care System
•  Have an interest in adaptive sports, outdoor recreation and/or fitness activities
•  Be medically stable and cleared for active participation
•  Obtain consult from you primary care physician for “Adaptive Sports/Recreation” evaluation
•  Complete sports evaluation for full assessment 

If you’re a caregiver for a Veteran, you can get support by contacting one of our caregiver support coordinators. For all caregivers, we can:

• Help you get caregiver assistance available through VA
• Provide progressive needs planning to help you manage degenerative conditions
• Match you with services and benefits
• Connect you with local resources and programs
• Listen to your challenges and host support groups, including...

Learn more and connect with a support coordinator

Additionally, the Program of Comprehensive Assistance for Family Caregivers (PCAFC) can provides a financial stipend, health insurance and beneficiary travel to caregivers of eligible Veterans. For more information, visit the VA PCAFC page.

We help Veterans who are homeless or at risk of becoming homeless due to financial hardship, unemployment, addiction, depression or transition from jail. Contact one of our care coordinators to get help with:

• Immediate food and shelter needs, including both transitional and permanent housing
• Job training, life skills development and education
• Justice system navigation and community reentry from jail
• Financial support to prevent homelessness
• Addiction and depression treatment
• Health and dental care

Learn more and connect with a care coordinator

Veterans who are homeless or at imminent risk of homelessness can also contact the National Call Center for Homeless Veterans at (877) 4AID-VET 877-424-3838) for assistance, 24/7/365.

The VA Boston Healthcare System is committed to the health, welfare and dignity of lesbian, gay, bisexual and transgender (LGBTQ+) Veterans and their families. We focus on ensuring a safe, welcoming and affirmative environment when providing you with sensitive and high-quality health care services like:

• Hormone therapy
• Substance use and alcohol treatment
• Testing and treatment for HIV and sexually transmitted infections (STI)
• Mental health care
• Psychosocial assessments for gender-confirming surgeries and hormone therapy

Learn more and connect with a care coordinator

We offer resources and support for minority Veterans to help address your specific needs with benefits and services at VA.

If you’re a minority Veteran, we can help you get the services and benefits you need. Our Minority Veterans Program serves all Veterans of color, including those who are Black American, Asian American, Hispanic American and Native American (including American Indians, Alaska Natives, Native Hawaiians and Pacific Island Americans). We work to:

• Help the medical center address minority Veterans’ needs
• Meet minority Veterans’ needs in the local community
• Identify barriers and create a more accessible environment for minority Veterans
• Inform minority Veterans of VA benefits, services and programs

Learn more and connect with a care coordinator

Our Patient Experience Coordinators work to ensure you receive the best possible care at our health care facilities. We work with all departments on your behalf to address your questions or concerns. If you, or a Veteran you care for has not been able to resolve important care issues through other means, please contact one of our highly-skilled patient experience coordinators, who can:

• Help you get answers or address concerns with your care team
• Advocate for patient and family rights
• Serve as advocates for minority Veterans, women Veterans and Veterans with disabilities
• Offer specialized help to former prisoners of war and Veterans transitioning from Operation Enduring Freedom (OEF), Operation Iraqi Freedom (OIF) and Operation New Dawn (OND)

Learn more and connect with a patient advocate

Survey of Healthcare Experience of Patients

After your visit, you may receive a confidential questionnaire in the mail or by email asking you about your most recent outpatient or inpatient treatment at our medical center.

Please use the survey to let us know of any concerns, complaints or questions you have about your care, so we can resolve them. We also appreciate compliments about what we are doing right.

We offer a wide range of activities (arts and crafts, games, sports, exercise) that we can adapt to your needs.

Our therapies promote your independence and enhance your health and well-being if you’re a Veteran with an injury, chronic (long-lasting) illness or disabling condition. After your primary health care provider gives you a referral, a recreation therapist will develop treatment goals for you. Recreation and creative arts therapy provides services and activities that include:

• Animal interaction
• Music, art and crafts
• Community outings
• Exercise, sports and games -- learn more about adaptive sports at VA Boston
• Gardening and leisure education

If you’re returning from military service, we can help you readjust to civilian life and get started with VA health care. We can also help connect you with programs like mental health services and education and career counseling.

Welcome home! We can help you readjust to civilian life if you’re returning from military service, on active duty, or an activated National Guard or Reserve member. Talk to one of our care coordinators about how to best use your health care benefits. Services include:

• Polytrauma care (if you have multiple traumatic injuries)
• Counseling and rehabilitation
• Mental and behavioral health services
• Family benefits counseling and assistance
• Referral assistance

Learn more and connect with a coordinator

Services we provide at VA Boston health care

Social work is integral to health care. We can help you and your family manage stress-related problems due to injury or illness, and find VA and community-based resources to meet your needs, such as:

• Case management
• Community living
• Counseling
• Discharge Planning
• Home health services
• Independent living
• Legal services
• Transportation

We use the latest in secure digital technology to set up remote visits with our health care providers. We offer video conferencing, home telehealth services, and store-and-forward telehealth that lets you securely send your health information to experts at VA facilities. We offer telehealth visits with providers in specialties such as:

• Mental health
• Retinal care (eye)
• Bariatric surgery (visit remotely with your weight-loss surgery team before and after your operation)
• Dermatology
• Rehabilitation
• Primary care

Telehealth is just one of the virtual care technologies we offer. Click here  to learn more about Connected Care resources, which offer greater convenience and empower you to take charge of your health care from the comfort of your home. 

We help Veterans with physical and mental health challenges find and keep jobs. We help you find jobs through our long-term partnerships with business, industry and government agencies. We offer the following services:

• Our transitional work program matches Veteran’s skills with a specific job and provides supervision to help them gain work experience
• Our supported employment program provides long-term support for Veterans with serious mental illnesses or physical disabilities to help them compete for jobs in their communities
• Our vocational assistance program trains Veterans living at our residential facility to improve their job-search and career development skills

Learn more about VA vocational rehabilitation

Talk with your Healthcare team about what you want your health for. Share your values, needs, and goals.

Try any of the services below offered by Whole Health team members:

• Explore “what matters most to you” with a Whole Health Partner
• Attend a Veteran-led 45-minute “Introduction to Whole Health” class
• Participate in a 9 week “Taking Charge of Your Life & Health” group
• Partner with a Health Coach for support in behavioral changes towards healthy living
• Join Ompractice for LIVE virtual Tai Chi, Yoga, and other wellness classes

Watch this video about Whole Health.

Ask your healthcare team for a referral OR call 857-203-4876.