Health services

Care we provide at VA Portland Health Care System

We provide emergency medical care 24 hours a day, every day at the Portland VA Medical Center only. Our emergency room staff can help you with:

• Life-threatening illnesses and injuries that require immediate attention
• Urgent medical issues that must be treated right away
• Psychiatric evaluations
• ED Phone number is 503-721-7803 .
• If Veteran goes to non-VA facility for emergency care, notify VA within 72 hours from the start of a Veterans ER visit by calling  844-724-7842 

Care we provide at VA Portland Health Care System

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

• Medicine and nursing
• Psychology, psychiatry, and social work
• Physical and occupational therapy

Learn more about VA Portland's Rehabilitation and Long Term Care Division which is organized in three units;

     - Community Living Center (CLC)

     - Home and Community Based Services (HCBS)

     - Physical Medicine & Rehabilitation Services (PM&RS)

Learn more about VA long-term care

Care we provide at VA Portland health care

Our gynecologists focus on the female reproductive system and provide services that include:

• Mammograms for breast cancer, screenings for sexually transmitted disease, and Pap tests for cervical cancer
• Counseling and treatment for contraception, pregnancy, and infertility
• Osteoporosis screening for brittle bones
• Exams for abnormal uterine bleeding, pelvic pain, or various cancers
• Primary care checkups

Care we provide at VA Portland Health Care System

Our pharmacy provides you and other Veterans with convenient, efficient service to make 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

Learn more about our pharmacy

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.

Care we provide at VA Portland Health Care System

A strong network of family and internal medicine specialists and services can offer you the best possible care. Internal medicine doctors (internists) prevent, diagnose, and treat adult diseases. Doctors who specialize in family medicine provide primary health care to the entire family. Your primary care team can coordinate the many services you receive such as:

• Labs and blood work
• Mental health care,   Women's health care
• Social services and telehealth options
• Home Based Primary Care (HBPC)  (under Home and Community-Based Services (HCBS))
• Call us at  503-721-1498 , option 3 to make/change  an appt. or to relay a message to your care team.
• Learn about weight management options through VA Portland.

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. They 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

Lean more and connect with a Women Veteran Program Manager

Learn  about VA Portland's Intimate Partner Violence Assistance Program (IPVAP).

Care we provide at VA Portland Health Care System

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 like:

• Rehabilitation (Learn more about the VA Portland Veterans Recovery House  & Residential Rehabilitation Treatment Program (RRTP) )
• Health maintenance
• Community support

Learn more about our VA treatment programs

Care we provide at VA Portland Health Care System

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. 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
• Aggressive or self-harming behaviors

Learn more and connect with a care coordinator

Care we provide at VA Portland Health Care System

We offer care for military sexual trauma in our mental (behavioral) health clinics. 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:

• Counseling
• Psychiatric care
• Walk-in care
• Contact a VA Portland MST coordinator as a personal contact to assist with any MST-related issues;  Aysha Crain, LCSW. If you are outside the Portland area, call 1-.

Learn more about military sexual trauma

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.

Care we provide at VA Portland Health Care System

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, it may be PTSD. We can help you with effective treatments and support services, like:

• 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)
• PTSD Clinical Team (PCT)

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.

Care we provide at VA Portland Health Care System

Our psychology teams offer consultation, evaluation, and treatment to help with a range of mental and behavioral health problems like:

• 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

Care we provide at VA Portland Health Care System

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

Learn more and connect with a care coordinator

Care we provide at VA Portland Health Care System

If you've had a major part of an arm or leg 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 work with you to create a custom artificial limb
• 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

Learn more about VA Rehabilitation and Prosthetic Services

Learn more about the VA amputation system of care

Care we provide at VA Portland Health Care System

The VA Portland Audiology and Speech and Language Pathology Service is charged with assisting Veterans who are having difficulty hearing and communicating. Through a wide variety of services, assistive devices, and therapeutic offerings, this department works to ensure their patient’s can live more satisfying lives. We offer a full range of audiology and speech pathology services like:

• 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)
• Appointments are required for all visits; schedule an appointment for any Audiology location by calling our central scheduling line 503-721-1434,  or 1-800-949-1004 ext. 55712, Mon- Fri, 8:00 a.m. to 4:00 p.m.

Learn more about VA hearing aids

Learn about Audiology and Speech-Language Pathology Training Programs

Care we provide at VA Portland Health Care System

Bariatric-Metabolic surgery, also called weight-loss surgery, reduces the size of your stomach and small intestine to limit the amount of food you can eat or absorb. Bariatric surgery can be done in several ways, like:

• Gastric bypass, which shrinks your stomach size and re-routes your digestive system, so you don’t absorb as much food.
• Sleeve gastrectomy, which removes part of your stomach, leaving only a slender “sleeve” that holds less food.
• If right for you, Bariatric-Metabolic surgery is offered through consult to VA Palo Alto, California, or a community provider for those who qualify. Talk with your primary care provider for more information.
• If you are interested in losing weight, we can help. We offer many programs and services and can connect you with resources to support you and your goals.

Weight Management Classes- VA offers a free weight management program. You can attend an introductory class to learn the Basics of Weight Management and how to get started. 

Weight Management Medications -  VA has several medications available to help with weight loss and diabetes management for those who qualify. Talk with your primary care provider for more information.

Learn more about the weight management options through VA Portland.

Care we provide at VA Portland Health Care System

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
• Guidance on how to develop visual motor and perceptual skills
• Training to help you manage daily activities with your vision loss

Read more about VA Portland's Low Vision Clinic

Care we provide at VA Portland Health Care System:

• COVID-19 vaccines for eligible Veterans and staff (Note: COVID-19 vaccinations are not available throughout Lincoln County)
• COVID testing - by appointment ONLY for Veterans who are...
  • clinically indicated by their Primary Care team
  • scheduled for medical procedures at VA facilities
  • scheduled for an admission

Learn more about COVID-19 vaccinations and COVID testing at VA Portland.

Care we provide at VA Portland

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.

For additional information on the services we offer, please click on a link below:

• Cancer Care Services offered at VA Portland
• Cancer Care Specialties
• Cancer Treatment
• Multidisciplinary Team Approach
• Support Services
• Clinical Trials

Care we provide at VA Portland Health Care System

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 like pacemaker implants or cardiac catheterization (inserting a long, thin tube into an artery or vein)
• Contact

VA Portland Specialty Medicine Customer Service Line;  503-273-5299

Care we provide at VA Portland Health Care System

Our cardiovascular surgeons diagnose and surgically treat medical conditions that affect your heart and blood vessels. Our procedures include:

• Coronary bypass surgery to redirect blood around a section of blocked artery in your heart
• Heart valve surgery to repair or replace a damaged valve in your heart
• Vascular surgery to repair veins, improve blood flow, and treat other diseases and disorders that affect your arteries, veins, and lymphatic system
• Coronary angioplasty and stent placement to open blocked or narrowed arteries that carry blood to your heart
• Pacemaker implant or cardiac ablation to correct abnormal heart rhythm
• Contact

VA Portland Specialty Medicine Customer Service Line;  503-273-5299

Care we provide at VA Portland Health Care System

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, like:

• 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

Care we provide at VA Portland Health Care System

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

• Routine exams that include oral cancer screenings and teeth cleaning, restorative procedures such as, fillings and crowns
• Comprehensive surgical care, including extractions,  bone and gum tissue grafts, as well as biopsies
• Routine and advanced prosthodontic care, including bridges, dentures, and dental implants
• Routine and advanced periodontal care including deep cleanings , gum surgery, sinus lifts,  and supporting bone health
• Routine and advanced root canal procedures
• Oral and facial reconstruction to repair damage from traumatic injury or serious illness

Get more information about VA Portland Dental Services

Care we provide at VA Portland Health Care System

We provide care for many medical and surgical skin conditions. Our dermatology services include:

• Medically necessary treatments for skin conditions like skin cancer and rashes
• Specialized treatments for acute (short-term) and chronic (long-lasting) skin conditions, like psoriasis, eczema, warts, and fungal illnesses
• Evaluation, biopsy, and treatment of cancerous or pre-cancerous skin conditions, like abnormal moles and lesions.
• Referrals for complex conditions
• Teledermatology (a telehealth resource), which gives patients quick access to expert opinions
• Contact

VA Portland Specialty Medicine Customer Service Line;  503-273-5299

Care we provide at VA Portland Health Care System

We diagnose and treat hormone imbalances and other endocrine system problems that can create or complicate serious medical conditions like diabetes, obesity, and thyroid or parathyroid disorders. 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
• Contact

VA Portland Specialty Medicine Customer Service Line;  503-273-5299

Learn more about the weight management options through VA Portland.

Care we provide at VA Portland Health Care System

We diagnose and treat medical 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. Our gastroenterology department provides services like:

• 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
• Contact

VA Portland Specialty Medicine Customer Service Line;  503-273-5299

To view or download the EOE Nutrition Guide, which helps you read food and nutrition labels to identify food allergens, and elimination diet as a treatment option for Eosinophilic Esophagitis (EoE), go here.

Learn details about VA Portland's Telehealth HIV and PrEP clinic. The clinic provides the same quality care for Veterans living with HIV or Veterans prescribed HIV pre-prophylaxis (PrEP) medication as the face-to-face Infectious Disease clinic appointment. It adds the benefit of no drive to Portland.

Care we provide at VA Portland Health Care System

We offer a range of hematology and oncology services. You can arrange appointments and consultation through your primary care provider. 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
• Contact

VA Portland Specialty Medicine Customer Service Line;  503-273-5299

Learn more about VA Portland Cancer Care Services.

Care we provide at VA Portland Health Care System

We test for, evaluate, and treat many infectious diseases. We offer:

• Testing and screening for hepatitis C, HIV/AIDS, tuberculosis, and other infectious diseases
• Prevention strategies and treatment
• Compassionate care and counseling for people who are living with infectious diseases

Learn details about VA Portland's Telehealth HIV and PrEP clinic. The clinic provides the same quality care for Veterans living with HIV or Veterans prescribed HIV pre-prophylaxis (PrEP) medication as the face-to-face Infectious Disease clinic appointment. It adds the benefit of no drive to Portland.

Monkeypox Vaccine Information

VA Portland is offering the Monkeypox Vaccine on 10/1/2022 (Dose 1) and 10/29 (Dose 2) for Veterans only.  If Veterans have received their first dose 28 days before either of the two clinic dates, they are able to get the second dose at the VA if preferred over the site initially booked with.  Veterans may also seek vaccination via community partners.

If interested in receiving a Monkeypox Vaccination, please call  OPTION 8

Care we provide at VA Portland Health Care System

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

Care we provide at VA Portland Health Care System

MOVE! is a weight-management program designed to help you live a longer, healthier life. With the help of your MOVE! care team, you can eat a healthier diet, get more exercise, reduce your health risks, and improve your quality of life. The MOVE! program offers:

• Weight-loss support groups to help you lose weight and keep it off
• Healthy eating tips and cooking classes
• Behavioral change strategies to help you live a healthier lifestyle

Learn more about VA Portland's MOVE program and offerings.

Learn how VA Portland can help you with your weight loss and health goals through weight management classes, medication and surgery. 

Care we provide at VA Portland Health Care System

Our team of kidney doctors (nephrologists) manage all aspects of kidney disease, kidney stones, challenging hypertension (high blood pressure), and kidney transplants.  We provide clinic-based and hospital-based services for:

• Chronic kidney disease including preparation for dialysis, and dialysis services
• Acute kidney injury/failure
• Kidney transplant evaluation and follow-up care after transplantation
• High blood pressure evaluation and management
• Medical care for kidney stones
• Contact

VA Portland Specialty Medicine Customer Service Line;  503-273-5299

Care we provide at VA Portland Health Care System

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

Care we provide at VA Portland Health Care System

Although many people think of neurosurgery as brain surgery, it's much more. Our neurosurgeons diagnose and treat a wide range of conditions related to your nervous system, like:

• Brain, spinal cord, and spinal column injuries, illnesses, and disorders
• Brain and spinal tumors
• Neck pain and sciatica (nerve pain in your lower back hip, or leg)
• Herniated disks and degenerative illnesses of the spine

Care we provide at VA Portland Health Care System

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

Learn more about VA Portland's Nutrition and Food Service.

Learn about VA Portland's many available Nutrition Classes.

Learn more about the weight management options through VA Portland.

Care we provide at VA Portland Health Care System

We offer comprehensive evaluation, diagnosis, and treatment for eye-related illnesses, injuries, and other issues. Our ophthalmology services include:

• Medical care for glaucoma, eye infections, and other conditions
• Surgery for cataracts, traumatic eye injuries, and other problems
• Treatment for eye conditions related to illnesses like diabetes or arthritis
• Plastic surgery to repair droopy eyelids, clear blocked tear ducts, and perform eyelid and facial reconstruction (oculoplastics)

Learn about VA Portland Low Vision Clinic

Our optometrists provide many eye-related services and treatments like:

• Vision services and eye exams
• Treatment for diseases and injuries of the retina, cornea, and other parts of your eye
• Low-vision services for conditions like macular degeneration that can't be corrected by glasses, surgery, or medication
• Special eye exams for diabetic patients

Learn more about VA Portland's Eye Services and Optical Shops

Care we provide at VA Portland Health Care System

We use surgical and nonsurgical means to treat illnesses and disorders of the musculoskeletal system, which includes your bones, muscles, joints, cartilage, tendons, ligaments, and other connective tissue. We treat conditions like:

• Musculoskeletal trauma
• Degenerative illnesses
• Sports injuries

• Contact

VA Portland Specialty Medicine Customer Service Line;  503-273-5299

Care we provide at VA Portland Health Care System

We evaluate, diagnose, and treat a wide range of ear, nose, and throat conditions, like:

• Nasal and sinus problems
• Obstructive sleep apnea
• Throat, lymph node, thyroid, and parathyroid tumors and other conditions
• Voice and swallowing disorders

• Contact

VA Portland Specialty Medicine Customer Service Line;  503-273-5299

Care we provide at VA Portland Health Care System

Acute (short-term) or chronic (long-lasting) pain can make it hard to enjoy life, but effective pain management can help. Our experts work with you, your primary care physician, and other specialists to create a plan to help you manage your pain and improve your quality of life. Our services include:

• Chiropractic care to relieve pain without medication
• Prescribing and supervising your use of medications
• Teaching you skills that include meditation, mindfulness training, relaxation, yoga, and tai chi to help you manage your pain
• Providing physical therapy, acupuncture, massage, biofeedback, and other compatible therapies

Learn about VA Portland's Pain Center, Center for Integrative Pain Care (CPIC)

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

Care we provide at VA Portland Health Care System

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 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

Reach VA Portland's Physical/Occupational Therapy team at 503-220-8262, ext. 31826.

Learn about Physical Therapy Orthopedic Residency opportunities.

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
• Nasal reconstruction surgery to change the shape of your nose

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.

Care we provide at VA Portland Health Care System

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)

New Patients:  Contact your primary care team to determine your specific needs, necessary pre-appointment testing  (i.e. X-rays) and scheduling.

Established Patients (seen within the last 3 years):  Call the Specialty Care  at 503-273-5299 , option 9, for questions or to schedule  follow-up appointment for a new or existing condition.

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.

Care we provide at VA Portland Health Care System

VA is the world's largest and most comprehensive provider of sensory aides and prosthetic devices. Veterans enrolled in the VA health care system and referred by a physical medicine and rehabilitation physician can receive a full range of services and equipment like:

• 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
• Contact VA Portland Prosthetics department at  503-721-1429

Learn more about VA Rehabilitation and Prosthetic Services.

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.

Care we provide at VA Portland Health Care System

If you find it difficult to breathe or sleep, our pulmonary (lung) specialists can help. We offer education, exercises, and treatments like:

• 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

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

Care we provide at VA Portland Health Care System

Radiation oncologists specialize in using high-energy radiation to kill or damage cancer cells and either destroy tumors or control their growth. 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

Learn more about VA Portland's Cancer Care Services.

Learn more about all VA Portland's Imaging/X-Ray Services.

Care we provide at VA Portland Health Care System

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

• X-ray
• Ultrasound
• Computer tomography (CT)
• Positron emission tomography (PET)
• Magnetic resonance imaging (MRI)

Learn more about VA Portland's Imaging/X-Ray Services.

Care we provide at VA Portland Health Care System

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 about Rehabilitation and Long Term Care Division (RLTC)

Learn more about VA long-term care

Learn about Advance Care Planning – Group Visits (ACP-GV)

Care we provide at VA Portland Health Care System

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

• Juvenile idiopathic and infectious arthritis
• Osteoarthritis and rheumatoid arthritis
• Lupus, gout, and scleroderma

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

Care we provide at VA Portland Health Care System

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

Contact the VA Portland Sleep Center at 503-402-2841, ext. 52841 or via MyHealtheVet.

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.

Care we provide at VA Portland Health Care System

VA has the nation's largest system of care for spinal cord injuries and disorders. We provide a convenient, connected network of experts to care for you during each phase of your life. Our experienced primary care providers are trained to check for problems unique to spinal cord injuries.

• 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

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

Care we provide at VA Portland Health Care System

We provide a wide range of surgical services, like:

• General surgery
• Anesthesia
• Cardiac surgery (heart and major blood vessels)
• Neurosurgery (brain, spinal column, and nerves)
• Orthopedic surgery (bones, muscles, ligaments, joints, and tendons)
• Organ and tissue transplants

We are experts in life-saving transplants, including kidney, liver, heart, lung, small bowel, bone marrow and stem cell.

Care we provide at VA Portland Health Care System

Our transplant surgeons work to save or extend lives by transplanting healthy, fully functioning organs from living or deceased donors to patients who need one. We offer:

• Liver transplants
• Kidney transplants
• Referrals to other transplant centers

Please visit VA Portland Transplant Program for additional information.

Care we provide at VA Portland Health Care System

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:

• Kidneys
• Bladder
• Ureter and urethra
• Male reproductive organs

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

Care we provide at VA Portland Health Care System

Our vascular surgeons treat illnesses of your arteries and veins. Our surgeons can treat these problems with medication and exercise. Vascular illness causes include:

• Arteriosclerosis and/or atherosclerosis (caused by the buildup of plaque in your arteries that restricts blood flow to your organs and tissues)
• Aortic aneurysm and aortic valve disease
• Deep vein thrombosis and blockage by a blood clot or fatty deposit
• Varicose veins
• Vasculitis (inflammation of your blood vessels)
• Varicose veins
• Trauma or injury

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

Care we provide at VA Portland Health Care System

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:

• Optimize correct wheelchair seating and positioning
• Achieve maximum function and independence
• Promote good posture, breathing, digestion, and tissue health
• Prevent complications and additional injuries
• Go to the "Rehabilitation and Prosthetic Services" section in the health services list for more information

We provide thoughtful, compassionate diagnosis and treatment for Veterans with acute or chronic wounds or those who need ostomy care.

Care we provide at VA Portland Health Care System

There are two programs within caregiver support; the Program of General Caregiver Support Services (PGCSS)  and  the Program  of Comprehensive Assistance  for Family Caregivers (PCAFC).

For all caregivers we offer:

• Skills training
• Peer support groups
• Coaching
• Telephone support,
• Online education programs,
• Referrals to available resources for caregivers of Veterans.

Learn more and connect with a support coordinator

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

Care we provide at VA Portland Health Care System

Intimate partner violence (IPV) is when a current or former intimate partner (like a boyfriend, girlfriend, or spouse) stalks, harms, or threatens to harm their partner. Intimate partner violence can be emotional, physical, or sexual. It can also lead to short-term and long-term health problems, and a wide range of mental health issues. If you or someone you know is in a potentially abusive or violent relationship, we can help. We offer:

• Intimate partner violence care coordinators
• Links to community-based support groups, and advocacy and legal services
• Referrals to and coordination with other VA treatment providers
• Connection to domestic violence shelters
• Services for Veterans who are homeless
• Interventions for Veterans who use violence in their intimate relationships

Connect with a VA Portland IPV coordinator and learn more about IPV services.

Learn more about VA's Intimate Partner Violence Assistance Program (IPVAP).

Care we provide at VA Portland Health Care System

We promote 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

If you're a minority Veteran, we can help you get the services and benefits you need. Our Minority Veterans Program serves all Veterans 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 advocates work hard to make sure you receive the best possible care at our health care facilities. They 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
• Walk-in support

Portland VA Medical Center only, Bldg 101, Rm. 120

Hours: Monday 10:00 a.m - 3:00 p.m. and Tuesday - Friday 9:00 a.m. - 3:00 p.m.

• Call-in support; leave a message 24/7 and expect call back within 3 business days.

 All locations, 503-220-8262, ext. 58549

Learn more and connect with a patient advocate

If you were exposed to toxic chemicals or other hazards during your military service, we offer you a free exam. This exam helps you identify potential health risks and helps us monitor issues so we can better serve you.

Care we provide at VA Portland Health Care System

This free, voluntary, and comprehensive health exam involves an exposure and medical history, laboratory tests, and a physical exam. We will discuss your results in a face-to-face meeting and follow up with a letter. The registry evaluation, which does not verify exposure, is separate from VA's disability compensation process. You may be eligible to participate in one or more of these health registries if you served during these time periods:

• Ionizing radiation (1940s to 1960s)
• Agent Orange (1960s and 1970s)
• Airborne hazards and open burn pit (1990s to present)
• Gulf War (1990s to present)
• Depleted uranium (DU) (1990s to present)
• Toxic embedded fragments/shrapnel (2000s to present)

Learn more about VA Health Registry

Contact the VA Portland Environmental Health Coordinator at 503-906-5119 .

Go direct to the VA Registry with this link.   VA established this registry in 2014 to put data to work for Veterans and help us better understand the potential health effects of exposure to airborne hazards during military service. By joining the registry, you can provide information that will help VA provide better care to all Veterans. 

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.

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.

• 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

Care we provide at VA Portland Health Care System

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 community resources to meet your needs like:

• Home health services
• Legal services
• Transportation
• Community living

Learn about VA Portland's Advance Care Planning – Group Visits (ACP-GV)

Connect with a VA Portland Intimate Partner Violence Assistance Program (IPVAP) coordinator and learn more about IPV services.

Available at these locations

• Portland
• Vancouver

Veterans can schedule appointments online, refill prescriptions, view their health records, and send Secure Messages to their team using My HealtheVet.

Using your My HealtheVet Premium account, you will be able to:

• Request VA prescription refills, track your VA medications, and access your current VA prescriptions and prescription history.
• View, download and print your VA health information, reports, and images from your VA medical record.
• Check your lab and test results.
• Send online secure messages to your VA care team to ask them non-urgent health questions; ask to renew your medications; and send updates on your condition.
• View, schedule, reschedule and cancel VA appointments.
• Enter or update your personal information.

If you need help creating or using My HealtheVet and if you want to upgrade to premium account in person or through a video appointment, contact the VA Portland My HealtheVet coordinator at or . You can also contact the National Help desk number at 1-.

Learn more about MyHealtheVet.

Helpful videos

• Welcome to MyHealtheVet
• Register for a MyHealtheVet account
• My HealtheVet Premium account
• Refill your prescriptions with MyHealtheVet
• Secure messaging on MyHealtheVet
• VA Blue Ribbon reports
• Patient Generated Health Data (PGHD) 

Care we provide at VA Portland health care

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:

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

Learn more about telehealth

If you're traveling for VA-approved care, we can repay you for the cost of using regular transportation that includes cars, planes, trains, buses, taxis, rideshare, or light rail. You may also be eligible for repayment when using ambulances, wheelchair vans, or ambulettes (non-emergency medical transportation).

• Round-trip transportation services between your home and our hospital and clinics (beneficiary travel)
• Mileage reimbursement debit cards

Learn more about VA travel pay reimbursement

Care we provide at VA Portland Health Care System

We help Veterans with physical. mental health, and other barriers to finding and keeping employment.  We help you find jobs through our long-term partnerships with business, industry, and government agencies. We offer 3 services:

• Our Transitional Work program helps build on the job employment skills by placing Veterans in a therapeutic work environment.
• Our Supported Employment program provides long-term support for Veterans with serious mental illnesses, PTSD or Traumatic Brain Injury/ Spinal Cord Injury to help them compete for jobs in their communities
• Our Community Based Employment Services works with Veterans engaged in Mental Health with finding employment in the community
  
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Learn more about VA Portland vocational rehabilitation services and training opportunities.

Learn more about VA vocational rehabilitation

Care we provide at VA Portland Health Care System

Our whole health approach empowers and equips you to take charge of your health, well-being, and quality of life. Whole health goes beyond your illnesses, injuries, or disabilities, and focuses instead on your values, goals, and overall health. It includes self-care and complementary therapies along with conventional medical care. Our whole health program includes:

• Acupuncture to help you manage pain without drugs
• Meditation and mindfulness training
• Yoga, tai chi, and qi gong classes
• Massage and manual therapy
• Learn about VA Portland's Whole Health offerings to Veterans

Learn more about VA whole health