The month of June is a time for recognizing and raising awareness about posttraumatic stress disorder (PTSD).

Military servicemembers, veterans and first responders are among the many people whose work exposes them to traumas that can lead to PTSD. This mental health issue impacts about 8 million adults per year in the U.S., and roughly 7-8% of the population will experience PTSD throughout their lives, according to the National Center for Posttraumatic Stress Disorder (NCPTSD), part of the U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs (VA).

What is PTSD?

The NCPTSD defines PTSD as “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.” When a traumatic event causes prolonged symptoms and disruptions in a person’s life, it may be a sign of PTSD.

Experiencing all of the following symptoms would lead a mental health care provider to issue a PTSD diagnosis, according to the NCPTSD:

• Avoiding situations, places and experiences that could recall the traumatic incident.
• Reliving the incident through unwelcome memories and invasive flashbacks.
• Increasingly experiencing negative feelings like sadness, numbness, shame and lack of interest or trust.
• Feeling on edge or hyperaroused and being irritable or unable to sleep or focus as a result.

Anyone experiencing even one of these symptoms can benefit from speaking with a mental health professional.

What is PTSD treatment like?

Treating and overcoming PTSD can be mentally and emotionally draining, and many individuals experiencing symptoms may not feel ready to begin. However, the sooner they start working through therapeutic treatment, the more quickly they can move forward from the traumatic incident and find relief.

It is also important to note that there is nothing wrong or embarrassing about seeking out help for mental health conditions such as PTSD. Anyone experiencing tooth discomfort would visit a dentist who has the right training, tools and outside perspective to see inside their client’s mouth, pinpoint the cause of pain and begin the healing process. In the same way, anyone experiencing the disruption and pain of posttraumatic stress can enlist the help of a therapist who possesses the right training, tools and outside perspective to see into their client’s heart and mind and begin the healing process.

During trauma-focused psychotherapy or cognitive behavioral therapy, a client and therapist typically meet for about an hour and discuss the traumatic event, working from specific treatment goals. According to the Anxiety and Depression Association of America (ADAA), effective treatment methods include:

• Cognitive processing therapy: By exploring the feelings, thoughts and emotions they are left with in the wake of a traumatic incident, individuals with PTSD can work to rewrite those thought patterns.
• Cognitive restructuring therapy: By reexaming what actually happened during the event, versus what memories remain, individuals can overcome feelings of guilt, shame and responsibility for the traumatic incident.
• Prolonged exposure therapy: By revisiting the traumatic memory, individuals with PTSD can explore their emotions and reduce the overpowering impact of that memory so it no longer causes a disruption in their daily life.
• Stress inoculation training: By practicing new ways to manage posttraumatic stress and emotions, individuals can better cope with their symptoms. This treatment is often used in conjunction with other therapies.
• Eye movement desensitization and reprocessing therapy: By exploring negative emotions and memories while focusing on specific visual or audible cues, individuals can change how they respond when those memories resurface.
• Present centered therapy: By examining current experiences rather than the trauma itself, individuals can witness the impact of that incident on their present-day life and work to better manage those issues.
• Prescription medication: A psychiatrist may prescribe medication as part of treatment to provide their clients experiencing PTSD with more of the stress-management chemicals their brain is lacking.

The NCPTSD PTSD Decision Aid is a helpful tool for those who want to learn more about treatment options and consider which one might be the right fit.

The oldest and most senior branch of the United States military in order of precedence, the U.S. Army actually predates the U.S. itself. Congress established the First Continental Army on June 14, 1775, more than a full year before the signing of the Declaration of Independence, to recruit professionally trained soldiers that could combat the British “Redcoats” in the Revolutionary War.

In the centuries since then, America’s Army has grown into a fighting force with approximately half a million active duty soldiers. And on Sunday, June 14, 2020, the U.S. Army will observe its 245th birthday, affording military servicemembers and civilians alike an opportunity to celebrate the branch’s rich history and continued role as a force for good in the world.

How to celebrate the U.S. Army’s birthday in 2020

Celebrations of the U.S. Army’s birthday will look much different this year due to the current pandemic. The Army’s birthday is not an official state or federal holiday, meaning government offices and private places of business remain open on June 14th, while Army and Department of Defense agencies typically choose to celebrate the occasion at the base or local level with special events, ceremonies, and social occasions. Additionally, a wreath will be laid at the Tomb of the Unknown Soldier in Arlington, Virginia, in celebration.

The USO, AMVETS, The American Legion, VFW, and other military service organizations also usually observe the holiday on a local or agency-wide level each year. If you would like to know if and how the birthday is being celebrated in your community, you can reach out to the local chapter of your preferred Veterans Service Organization.

One unique annual celebration is the Army Birthday Ball, which is usually held at military bases, community centers, civilian hotels, and other applicable sites around the world. This black-tie formal event features military members in full-service dress, also known as “Dress Blues” or “Mess Dress,” and includes a long list of traditions that are intended to pay respect to those who sacrificed life and limb to serve and to welcome the newest members of the service and salute the future of the Army at large.

In that spirit, one of the most popular traditions at the ball is the cutting of the Army birthday cake, in which the oldest serving soldier and the youngest serving soldier use a ceremonial saber to cut the first slice. Another common tradition is the receiving line, in which Army leaders personally greet each attendee entering the ballroom, and the giving of toasts to the United States, military families and to fallen comrades, the latter toast one that is always respectfully answered in silence.

This year, the 245th U.S. Army Birthday Ball was due to be held in Washington D.C. Saturday, June 13. Due to coronavirus, however, the event has been canceled.

Additionally, private citizens can always organize events in their own community or find ways to celebrate with friends and family. The 245th anniversary of the U.S. Army provides a wonderful opportunity to both reflect on the centuries of sacrifice that have come before, and celebrate the bright future that lies ahead for America’s fighting force.

General Spencer to hold dual presidency of AFBA and 5Star Life

ALEXANDRIA, VA – The Armed Forces Benefit Association (AFBA) and the 5Star Life Insurance Company Boards of Directors have named General Larry O. Spencer, USAF (Ret.), as President of 5Star Life effective June 1, 2020.

“General Spencer was appointed AFBA President earlier this year and his superb leadership has proven invaluable as we dealt with the Covid-19 crisis. His appointment as President of 5Star Life will help us achieve our strategic objectives under one leadership banner. Both boards of directors have confidence in his steady and decisive leadership as we continue to fulfill our mission – to serve those who serve this great nation,” said AFBA and 5Star Life Chair General Ralph E. “Ed” Eberhart, USAF (Ret.).

General Spencer spent more than 40 years in the Air Force, beginning his career in the enlisted ranks and rising to become a four-star general. General Spencer’s last assignment was as the Vice Chief of Staff of the US Air Force where he assisted the Chief of Staff in organizing, training, and equipping 690,000 active-duty, Guard, Reserve and civilian forces. After retiring from the Air Force in 2015, General Spencer served as President of the Air Force Association until 2019. He currently serves on the boards of Whirlpool Corporation, Triumph Group, Inc., and Haynes International, Inc.

“It is an honor to serve our country’s military service members and first responders, and now, civilian customers of 5Star Life who work every day to ensure our country’s economic strength, said General Spencer. “With the support of General Eberhart and both boards of directors, I am optimistic about the future and confident the joint enterprise – AFBA and 5Star Life – can support members and customers even better than before.”

About Armed Forces Benefit Association
With the support of the General of the Army, Dwight D. Eisenhower, the Armed Forces Benefit Association (AFBA) was established in 1947 in the basement of the Pentagon to ease the strain on military members and their families who, at the time, could not purchase life insurance that would pay a death benefit if the member was killed in combat. Today, headquartered in Alexandria, VA, AFBA continues to honor its mission, in war and peace, promoting the welfare of its members providing death benefits and other benefits to those who serve this great nation, including members of the uniformed services, first responders, government employees, and their families. AFBA has 650,000 members with $40 billion of life insurance benefits in force and has paid nearly $2 billion of life insurance benefits since inception. AFBA life insurance benefits are underwritten by its affiliate, 5Star Life Insurance Company (a Lincoln, Nebraska domiciled company).

About 5Star Life Insurance Company
5Star Life Insurance Company (5Star Life) is the primary underwriter of the Armed Forces Benefit Association (AFBA) member policies and is also a growing provider of group and worksite voluntary products. Its business model enables 5Star Life to serve the needs of a diverse clientele as an insurance advisor to individuals and organizations, and as a trusted partner to brokers. Headquartered in Alexandria, VA, 5Star Life is currently licensed in 49 states, the District of Columbia, Puerto Rico, the U.S. Virgin Islands, Guam, and American Samoa.

Government contracting roles, such as contract officer and contract specialist, can be challenging and rewarding careers. However, students and emerging professionals may not be familiar with the primary responsibilities, job requirements or internship opportunities related to this field. Read on to learn how to prepare for and find work as a contracting professional.

What do contract officers and specialists do?

The Federal Acquisition Institute (FAI) defines the contract officer (CO) as "a person who can bind the Federal Government of the United States to a contract. Contracting Officers hold a warrant that allows them to negotiate on behalf of the United States Government. As the Government's agent, only COs may execute, modify, or terminate a contract."

Many aspiring contract officers will start out as contract specialists, where they serve in a support role and directly report to contract officers. Both are civilian roles within the federal government's acquisitions workforce, which is responsible for procuring and selling goods and services on behalf of government agencies. These goods and services may include everything from new information systems, aircraft and military vehicles to cutting-edge research, uniforms and office supplies.

The FAI explains that contract officers are responsible for selecting vendors and overseeing that contractual agreements are legally compliant, appropriately funded, fair and impartial. It is also a CO's job to ensure that contracts are providing maximum value and that taxpayers' money is being responsibly spent.

While the role largely involves contract negotiation and administration, contracting professionals also have the chance to meet with vendors, view and assess the types of products and services under consideration, and gain hands-on experience related to the agencies and programs they are working to support. As a result, some travel may be involved. The FAI explains that contracting professionals are needed throughout the U.S. and overseas, where they are employed by essentially all government agencies and programs, including the branches of the armed forces.

Contracting careers can be professionally rewarding and well-compensated. According to Glassdoor, COs typically make between $57,000 and $128,000 per year, with average earnings of roughly $90,000.

How can someone become a contract officer or specialist?

Students who wish to apply for internship opportunities in contracting can learn more about available internships through the FIA website. Opportunities include government-wide internships like Pathways Program as well as agency-specific programs such as the Department of Homeland Security's Acquisition Professional Career Program (APCP) or the Department of the Navy's Naval Acquisition Development Program (NADP).

Full-time contract officer and specialist positions are advertised through the federal government's career portal, USAjobs.gov. Anyone interested in searching for and applying to these roles will likely need to go through this portal.

According to the FIA, a prospective contracting professional should hold a bachelor's degree. An advanced degree may also be desirable or required for certain positions. The CO role is classified as an 1102 position in the Contracting Series by the U.S. Office of Personnel Management, so prospective candidates should review the specific qualifications.

Applicants interested in a contracting career should generally possess some educational or professional experience in the following subjects:

• Contracts.
• Law.
• Business.
• Accounting.
• Finance.
• Economics.
• Quantitative reasoning.
• Supply chain management.
• Industrial distribution.
• Marketing.
• Market research.
• Communications.

To be successful in a contracting career, one should possess strong communication skills, analytical abilities, and a penchant for problem-solving which will be important in cost analysis, contract negotiation and other administrative duties. COs typically operate in team environments, so collaboration is key as well. Professionals in the contract specialist and contract officer positions are constantly learning and participating in agency-specific training programs.

 

According to the Department of Defense, there were 1.3 million members of the armed forces as of March 2020. A recent study dives deeper into who these people are, where they come from and how popular beliefs about their origins and reasons for enlisting may be further off than many might think.

Widely held misconceptions

Since service in the armed forces became voluntary in 1973, after the draft was abolished, many Americans believed it would attract primarily disadvantaged groups and young people with limited prospects. However, new research published in the Journal of Strategic Studies reveals that this stereotype does not reflect reality. The study shows that military service attracts a diverse range of people as a result of its attractive career possibilities and competitive benefits.

The study, titled “A mercenary army of the poor? Technological change and the demographic composition of the post-9/11 U.S. military,” debunks the myths that often permeate academic and mass media publications. It explains that many assume that the majority of enlisted personnel come from poor rural communities or economically disadvantaged urban environments, who see the armed forces as an “escape” or “sanctuary.”

As the researchers pointed out, this is not only a problematic stereotype, but it also implies that the demographic makeup of those out on the front lines is disproportionate to the U.S. population as a whole — hence the “rich man’s war, poor man’s fight” perspective.

Class-based conclusions

The researchers tested two assumptions. The first — the opportunity cost theory — “implies that individuals from more disadvantaged socio-economic backgrounds, lacking the skills to compete in the job market, have more to gain and less to lose from joining the military.”

However, according to their findings, the majority of recruits have in fact come from the middle class, with above-average levels of affluence. Contrary to popular belief, the poorest (and wealthiest) communities are underrepresented in the armed forces.

The study concludes that “men and women who serve are likely to embody the values and culture of the median voters. This affects not only the nature of the military itself, but also the calculations in terms of costs and benefits of democracies electing to go to war.”

Skill-related findings

The second assumption — the de-skilling hypothesis — suggests “that increasing reliance on advanced technology has relieved the military from employing highly skilled personnel, thus allowing for the recruitment of less talented individuals.”

On this point, the researchers found most recruits exhibited average cognitive skill levels. However, lower-income individuals with higher intelligence levels — and, by extension, better career prospects — were more likely to enlist.

The researchers conclude that the increased use of technology in the military has actually increased, rather than decreased, the need for highly skilled recruits. They argue that the continued sophistication and complexity of military tactics, tools, threats, and technologies have in fact raised the bar for the recruitment process.

These new understandings help “explain why the U.S. military has displayed high levels of military effectiveness in recent conflicts, an outcome that advanced technology alone cannot account for.”

That the U.S. military is not a last-resort employment destination but rather a selective employer offering attractive career opportunities suggests that each branch will need to maintain a competitive position in the job market. The researchers forecast additional spending, higher compensation and other incentives.

 

Countless small and local businesses are suffering from the impacts of lockdown orders in cities across the country. And yet, so many have found creative ways to give back to the frontline health care heroes and emergency response workers fighting the COVID-19 pandemic.

Read on to find out how local businesses around the nation are donating goods and services to first responders and health care workers responding to COVID-19.

Making and donating essential items

Organizations of all sizes, from dental schools to locally owned nail salons have donated personal protective equipment (PPE) — including N95 masks, gloves, gowns, face masks and other essential supplies — to health care workers and emergency response departments.

Companies with manufacturing facilities have switched over to produce in-demand supplies. For instance, nearly 800 distilleries have turned their attention from making small-batch spirits to creating and distributing hand sanitizer, according to the Distilled Spirits Council.

Offering free technologies and services

While many companies have been faced with workforce reductions and layoffs, numerous organizations are accelerating hiring and onboarding to bring more qualified professionals to the front lines of the coronavirus pandemic. To support these efforts, some HR companies are making their recruiting software and services free to these organizations, according to Human Resource Executive.

Similarly, companies in the mental health sector are offering free services like meditation app subscriptions to those facing the stressful workplace realities of COVID-19.

Sharing gifts of gratitude

Restaurants around the country are donating food and beverages to essential workers. Some bring balanced meals to those working long shifts, while others donate special treats like desserts and bottles of wine as a way to show gratitude. Dairy farms have also donated gallons of milk to local emergency workers and health care professionals.

Retailers that sell everything from comfortable walking shoes to fine jewelry are donating their products to workers out on the front lines, in an effort to make each day a little brighter. A spa franchise[located where] has invited its members to donate spa treatments that essential workers can redeem for some relaxation and renewal once the facilities re-open.

Even unexpected donations can make a big impact. For instance, a roofing company in Charleston, South Carolina has committed to constructing three new roofs on the homes of an EMT, nurse and police officer in its community. Actions like these show that it doesn’t really matter what a company does; as long as they approach the situation with a spirit of generosity and gratitude, they can find creative ways to lighten the load for those out on the front lines of the fight against the coronavirus.

Additional ways to give back

If you operate a local business — or wish to jointly support the small businesses and COVID-19 responders in your community — there are plenty of ways to give back in whatever ways you can. Consider the following ideas:

• Contact local health care organizations and first responder agencies to find out if they are accepting supply donations.
• Host a fundraiser and donate the proceeds to an organization in need of financial support.
• Announce a giveaway of the product or service you offer, and invite your customers to nominate emergency responders.
• Make your product or service available for free to those in desperate need.
• Purchase goods from companies that are donating funds or products for each purchase made.
• Buy gift cards from local businesses and donate them to first responders or health care workers in your community.

Additionally, saying “thank you” with a simple handwritten note or a banner in your front yard can go a long way to making those serving in your community feel your support.

IN THIS ISSUE

President’s Message

Member Portal Usage

How to File a Claim

SmartStart Children’s Insurance

Thank You to the National Guard and First Responders

AFBA Employee Remote Work Guidelines

2020 Financial Planning Guide

Member Benefit Highlights

Click here to read our Spring Newsletter.

 

Flyover salutes by the Navy's Blue Angels and Air Force's Thunderbirds are paying tribute to the essential workers, health care professionals and first responders serving in cities across the country in response to the COVID-19 pandemic. The two elite flight demonstration squadrons have flown individually and jointly over major and mid-sized cities hit hardest by the coronavirus outbreak.

Operation America Strong

President Trump announced the flyover plans during an April 22 press briefing, explaining, "We're paying tribute to our frontline health care workers confronting COVID. And it's really a signal to all Americans to remain vigilant during the outbreak."

Called Operation America Strong, the initiative is intended to salute those fighting on the front lines of the national emergency, while demonstrating a sense of national solidarity with those emergency workers.

"This is a tribute to them, to our warriors. Because they are equal warriors to those incredible pilots and all of the fighters that we have for the more traditional fights that we win," the President said. "Operation America Strong was the idea of our great military men and women — the Thunderbirds and the Blue Angels crews who wanted to show support to the American medical workers who, just like military members in a time of war, are fiercely running toward the fight."

Army and Navy unite for a collaborative salute

The Thunderbirds and Blue Angels first appeared together on April 28, when they flew over New York, New Jersey and Pennsylvania. Since then, they have appeared over Maryland, Connecticut, Delaware, Georgia, Texas and the nation's capital. The Blue Angels have completed flyover salutes over Florida and Louisiana, with additional visits anticipated from both demonstration squadrons.

In keeping with Department of Defense policy, the Blue Angels and Thunderbirds are not often seen together. "Each demonstration team showcases U.S. military aviation capabilities to the public separately to maximize Navy or Air Force recruiting efforts," the Blue Angels website explains. For this reason, the joint air demonstrations during Operation America Strong are especially rare and significant displays of national strength and unity.

"We are truly excited to take to the skies with our Navy counterparts for a nation-wide tribute to the men and women keeping our communities safe," said U.S. Air Force Lt. Col. John Caldwell in a Navy statement. Caldwell serves as Thunderbird 1 and the flyover mission commander. "We hope to give Americans a touching display of American resolve that honors those serving on the frontline of our fight with COVID-19," he added.

"We are incredibly honored to have the opportunity to salute those working on the frontline of the COVID-19 response, we are in awe of your strength and resilience," added U.S. Navy Blue Angels commanding officer and flight leader Cmdr. Brian Kesselring. "Thank you to all of those in essential industries keeping our nation moving forward. We will get through this. We are all in this together."

The demonstration squadrons typically participate in numerous air shows throughout the year, many of which have been canceled as a result of the pandemic. Each impressive, high-speed air display costs an estimated $60,000 — but funds for Operation America Strong has been drawn from already budgeted funds, the Washington Post reported.

While a complete schedule has not been announced, destinations and flight paths are being issued one day prior to each flyover. Citizens wishing to witness the flyover salutes in their cities are encouraged to remain in their homes, uphold social distancing measures and refrain from gathering in crowds.

On March 13, 2020, President Trump issued a national emergency declaration in response to the coronavirus outbreak. Since then, the efforts of state and federal agencies to keep the COVID-19 pandemic contained have had a range of impacts on contractors.

While navigating the ever-changing situation may prove challenging for many businesses, exploring some proven and potential results may help illuminate the path forward for those in government contracting.

Clarifying "essential business" status

National Defense advised contractors to be aware that they might not be considered essential simply because they are working to fulfill a federal contract. The outlet noted that state-mandated lockdowns may conflict with contractual obligations when both federal and state classifications remain relatively open to interpretation.

If they have not done so already, businesses should look for the Defense Federal Acquisition (DFA) Regulation Supplement Clause (252.237-7023) in their contracts. This clause states that businesses performing "mission-essential functions" can continue work — but it is essential to do so with all safety precautions taken.

Documenting excusable delays

Just because a national emergency has been declared, contractors are not automatically granted an excusable delay. Instead, any delay excuses must be well-documented and proven.

There is a Federal Acquisition Regulation force majeure clause stating that "the contractor shall not be in default because of any failure to perform this contract under its terms if the failure arises from causes beyond the control and without the fault or negligence of the contractor." Specifically, cited examples include "epidemics" and "quarantine restrictions."

However, contractors must identify precisely how these factors beyond their control impact contractually agreed upon delivery schedules. Once this is possible, it may be advisable to wait before settling on a new timeline, which may be difficult to identify given the continuing coronavirus-related uncertainty.

Accommodating DPA implications

The Defense Production Act (DPA) allows the president to bypass typical contract procurement procedures in an effort to obtain or initiate the manufacture of critical products and technologies. While it is unclear to what extent this authorization will be utilized, there may be some implications for contractors with manufacturing resources.

For instance, in March 2020, President Trump "require[d] General Motors Company to accept, perform and prioritize contracts or orders for the number of ventilators that the Secretary [of Health and Human Services] determines to be appropriate."

Writing for Lawfare, Harvard Law students Masha Simonova and Nathaniel Sobel explained that "the government could use this authority in the current pandemic to grant relief in the form of loans or loan guarantees to contractors who are facing lost profits or hardships as a result of complying with DPA orders."

Securing additional relief

In addition to possible DPA-related financial relief, contractors can turn to the FAR Changes Clause (52.243-1 through 52.243-4). If new direction from a contracting officer (CO) will hinder a vendor from completing their contracted services, the law firm Pillsbury has suggested "that the contractor make a timely request to its CO for a schedule extension."

Furthermore, Pillsbury has advised "separately account[ing] for the cost growth they experience as a result of the CO direction, in case they cannot reach an informal resolution and need to submit a claim for financial relief."

Essentially, it is critical for impacted government contractors to prioritize immediate and open communication with contracting officers and other stakeholders while maintaining detailed records of coronavirus-related impacts on contractual obligations. While attention and vigilance may not resolve the situation immediately, given the ever-changing nature of the ongoing pandemic, these actions can help contractors understand where they stand and may lead to securing much-needed financial assistance or schedule relief.

Amid the COVID-19 outbreak, veterans may have questions about how to stay safe while accessing important health benefits and services. Read on for answers and resources related to accessing VA health care resources, along with guidance from the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention for how veterans can protect themselves during this time.

Take extra health and safety precautions

To protect yourself from the fast-spreading coronavirus, be sure to follow all state and federal guidelines. The CDC advises staying home, limiting contact with other people and adopting social distancing measures such as keeping a 6-foot distance between yourself and others. You should wash your hands frequently and can wear a protective face covering when out in public. Now is also a good time to thoroughly clean and disinfect your home, focusing on high-touch areas.

Request that prescription refills be mailed to you

Having medication mailed to you will limit the amount of exposure you would otherwise experience by visiting a pharmacy in person.

According to the Department of Veterans Affairs, if you currently receive your VA prescription refills by mail, your deliveries will continue. Otherwise, you may request that a refill is sent to you by mail. To do so, you will first need to confirm that the mailing address in your VA.gov profile is accurate.

Next, you can request your refill using either the RX Refill app from a mobile device, the MyHealtheVet prescription tracker online or the VA pharmacy phone number printed on your prescription label. You may also complete and mail the prescription refill form included with your prescription to request a refill.

The VA has updated refill policies so that in-person refill evaluations can be conducted through telehealth appointments. If you run out of medication or need assistance refilling your prescription, you can use the secure messaging service to connect with your provider or call your local VA facility.

Choose telehealth services for non-emergency VA health appointments

Health care facilities around the nation may have limited in-person availability to non-COVID-19 patients. Consider using telehealth services to attend to your routine health needs. Virtual appointments mean you won't need to visit a hospital or health care center for non-emergency health matters.

If you have a routine appointment or a doctor's visit scheduled for a non-urgent health matter, you have a few options. The Department of Veterans Affairs advises either canceling or rescheduling non-urgent appointments, including elective procedures, to a date farther in the future. Alternatively, you can keep your appointment but conduct it in a telehealth format over the phone or a video meeting portal, such as VA Video Connect.

To contact your provider and book a telehealth appointment, the VA recommends using the My HealtheVet secure messaging portal or the VA appointment scheduling tool. If your care facility participates, you may be able to use the VA Health Chat app as well. Keep in mind that only some health services can be conducted over a phone or video appointment. Check your local VA health facility's website for the latest information and to learn more about your options.

If you have a standing appointment or service scheduled with a community (non-VA) health care provider, contact them directly to see if you can reschedule or conduct the appointment virtually. Referrals to community care facilities are still being issued, with an emphasis on referrals for those in urgent need. The VA has noted that referral eligibility requirements remain unchanged.

Prioritize your mental, physical and emotional well-being

Take the time to prioritize all aspects of your personal wellbeing. Unless you are sick, the CDC suggests taking a walk in a local park and exercising at home. Virtually check in on loved ones and work on staying connected, even if from a distance.

Reach out for help if you need it, by contacting a trusted friend or family member or through the Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration's Disaster Distress Helpline, at 1-800-985-5990 or via SMS by texting "TalkWithUs" to 66746.