General FAQs
Electronic Record Sharing Options
What are the Electronic Record Sharing Options?
VA Patients with a My HealtheVet Premium account can manage their options for sharing their electronic health record with participating non-VA community providers. Visit the Veterans Health Information Exchange (VHIE) website for more information about electronic record sharing.
Can anyone participate in the Electronic Record Sharing Options?
Any Veteran who receives care at a VA facility is eligible for electronic health information sharing.
Why should I participate in the Electronic Record Sharing Options?
The more information your health care providers have about your medical history, the better. In fact, the instant exchange of information made possible by the Veterans Health Information Exchange (VHIE) can dramatically improve patient safety, especially during emergency situations. Sharing your health information via VHIE can also help you avoid carrying paper copies of your health record back and forth between providers.
What health information will my providers share?
Currently VA and participating providers can share a variety of health information, including:
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Prescriptions and medications
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Laboratory and radiology results
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Allergies
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Immunizations
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Illnesses
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Procedures
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Clinical notes
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Other relevant medical information
Can I pick and choose the health information I want to share outside VA?
No, not currently.
How do I sign up for the Electronic Record Sharing Options?
You are automatically enrolled in health information sharing with providers who treat you.
What if I decide not to share?
Choosing to opt-out will not affect your access to care from community providers. However, it could impact their ability to treat you effectively because they may not be able to receive paper copies of your record before you receive treatment. Additionally, if you visit any emergency room, your information may still be shared via the Veterans Health Information Exchange (VHIE) so that you can receive the care you need.
How do I know my information will remain safe?
VA is committed to protecting your privacy. The Veterans Health Information Exchange (VHIE) is a secure system that complies with all federal privacy laws. Only community health care providers and organizations that are a part of VA's approved, trusted network may receive your health information. Additionally, all VA and community care providers work to protect your health information and only share the appropriate information when it is needed.
How do I access Electronic Record Sharing Options on My HealtheVet?
After signing into your My HealtheVet Premium account, select Health Records on the dashboard and then Electronic Record Sharing Options.
Updated March 19, 2020