Using electronic health information exchange, patient care teams can securely share certain health information between Sentara and the Veterans Administration (VA).
Sentara and the Veterans Administration are working together to improve patient care for Veterans. This electronic exchange allows Sentara sites of care in Hampton Roads and Northern Virginia, and the VA, to securely share electronic health information in ‘read only’ mode over a secure and confidential network known as the eHealth Exchange. Individual Veterans who do not wish to have their information shared must opt out of the program. This program is free and voluntary for Veterans.
How might electronic health information sharing benefit me?
Many Veterans receive a portion of their care from non-VA health care providers, including Sentara. In fact, up to 40 percent of the care provided at Sentara facilities is for Veterans, including emergency care, highly specialized surgeries and treatment of complex conditions. Information is stored on the Sentara eCare® Health Network.
Sharing certain parts of your electronic medical record will help reduce the need for you and your family to carry records between health care providers as well as allow your private health care provider to make more informed decisions about your care.
Who can view my health information?
Your Sentara health care provider(s) and VA doctors will both be able to see certain parts of your electronic health record and use it to create a better picture of your overall health.
How do I join?
Effective April 2020, there is no action you need to take. You are already enrolled.
What if I decide not to join?
Participation is entirely voluntary. Deciding not to participate will not affect your relationship with your doctor and/or VA medical facilities.
What if I join and later change my mind?
If you change your mind, you can visit your Hampton VAMC website or call the toll-free Veteran Health Information Exchange (VHIE) Information line at 1-877-771-VLER (8537) to request to be opted back into to sharing your electronic health information.
Please visit http://www.va.gov/vhie to download the forms and learn more about electronic health information sharing with VA.