VA Northern California Health Care System

VEText

Check in for appointments using VEText

To allow for more physical distancing in VA NorCal facilities, we are encouraging Veteran patients who have a cell number listed in their VA medical records to check in for their scheduled appointments via text message before exiting their vehicles.

How can Veterans with scheduled appointments check in for their appointments by text message?

1. Arrive at the medical center or clinic at least 15 minutes for your appointment.
2. Text the word “here” to 53079.
3. Wait in your vehicle until you a receive a text reply.
4. Once you receive a text message confirming your care team is ready to see you, head to the nearest entrance and enjoy your appointment.
5. It’s that simple!

What if I unsubscribed from receiving VEText messages?

1. Don’t worry. It’s easy to opt back in.
2. Text the word “START” to 53079.
3. Once you receive a text message confirming you are subscribed, follow the instructions above to check in for your appointments.

Enrolled Veterans with a cell phone number listed in their health record are automatically enrolled in the program, so it is very important for Veterans to ensure their local VA medical center or clinic has a current phone number on file. Veterans can also update their phone numbers at check-in during their next appointment or use the self-service kiosks located throughout VA facilities.

Our goal is the ensure we can continue to deliver the best care to our Veterans in the safest way possible. The VEText service can also be used to remind patients about upcoming appointments. However, VA NorCal is not using this feature at any of its facilities at this time.

Still have questions? Read our VEText FAQs.

*Text messaging rates may apply depending on your individual cell phone plan.