Virtual communication programs expand to include vocational rehab, employment.

* The VA is taking its virtual communication tool--VA Video Connect--past VA health care and into its Vocational Rehabilitation and Employment Program (VR&E).

VA Video Connect has enabled veterans to connect with their health care team from anywhere, using encryption to ensure a secure and private session. It has made VA health care more convenient, reduced travel times, and allowed quick and easy health care access from any mobile or web-based device. And now it will connect veterans with more than 1,000 VR&E counselors.

Similar to VA Telehealth Services, veterans obtain access to a scheduled VR&E counseling session through a unique link--valid for that counseling session only--sent directly to them.

VR&E also recently tested telecounseling at six regional benefits offices in order to identify how it can reduce time veterans wait for an appointment.

For more information about VR&E, visit benefits.va.gov/vocrehab.