Maximize your VA clinic visit: Essential tips for Veterans to lead their health care appointment
By Ricardo Branch, Public Affairs Specialist
At the Colonel Charles and JoAnne Powell VA Clinic in San Angelo, TX, ensuring that every Veteran receives the highest standard of care is our top priority.
Preparation is key to making the most of every health care appointment. By taking a few simple steps before your visit, Veterans can ensure personalized, attentive, and efficient care tailored to their unique health needs. Together, we can make each visit as beneficial as possible, ensuring that time with the expert team is focused on what matters most—health and well-being.
Gather your information
One of the most important steps before your appointment is collecting key health information. Be sure to bring:
- A complete list of medications (prescriptions, over-the-counter drugs, vitamins, and supplements).
- Any recent medical records from non-VA providers.
- Test results or hospital discharge papers if applicable.
“Having accurate information about medications and recent treatments helps the care team provide the safest, most effective care,” said Eloise Gamez, a registered nurse with the San Angelo VA Clinic. “It saves time and ensures nothing important is missed.”
Write down questions and concerns
Appointments move quickly, and it’s easy to forget questions once you’re in the exam room. Before your visit, write down any health concerns you want to discuss with your provider. This way, your provider can address the issues that matter most to you.
Examples might include:
- New or worsening symptoms.
- Concerns about sleep, energy, or mood changes.
- Questions about how diet, exercise, or other lifestyle changes could improve your health.
“You definitely don’t want to go in without a clear direction for the visit.” said Thaddeus Rix, a Marine Corps Veteran and San Angelo resident. “I was encouraged to write things down, and that’s helping me focus on my health concerns.”
Arrive Early, Use My HealtheVet
Plan to arrive at least 15 minutes early. This gives you time for check-in, paperwork, and routine screenings like blood pressure or weight checks. Veterans can also take advantage of MyHealtheVet, VA’s secure online portal where Veterans can:
- Communicate securely with their care team.
- Review upcoming appointments.
- Request prescription refills.
Partner in Your Care
The San Angelo VA Clinic’s mission is to provide compassionate, Veteran-centered care. But the most effective care happens when Veterans take an active role in the process.
“The foundation of effective healthcare lies in open, thoughtful communication between patients and their healthcare providers,” said Dr. Imran Yazdani, Associate Chief of Staff, WTVAHCS Ambulatory Care. “When both the patient and doctor take the time to prepare for a routine visit, it ensures that we address all the patient’s concerns. This in turn makes the appointment an effective conversation about their health.”
By preparing ahead of time – gathering your information, writing down questions, and arriving ready – you’re setting yourself up for success at your VA appointment. For questions about appointments or available services, Veterans can call