The VA is replacing the Veteran Identification Card (VIC) with the newly designed Veteran Health Identification Card (VHIC). “VA is committed to providing high-quality health care while ensuring the personal security of veterans,” said Secretary of Veterans Affairs Eric K. Shinseki in a February 20, 2014, press release. The new card, which has additional safety features, is an “important step forward” in protecting veterans from identity theft and other personal crimes, he said.
Similar to a typical health insurance card, the VHIC displays the veteran’s Member ID number, a new unique identifier, Plan ID number, and the emblem of the veteran’s latest branch of service. No personally identifiable information is contained on the magnetic strip or barcode, the VA says. New features that make the card easier to use include the addition of “VA” in Braille, to help visually impaired veterans, and the printing of VA phone numbers and emergency care instructions on the cards.
The phased rollout began in February 2014, first offering the card to newly enrolled and other veterans who have not been issued a VIC, then automatically mailing new cards to current VIC cardholders, beginning in April. While a VHIC is not required to receive VA health care, all enrolled veterans are encouraged to get one. VA recommends veterans safeguard their old VIC as they would a credit card, and cut up or shred the card once it is replaced.
Veterans can get more information about the VHIC by visiting their VA medical facility enrollment coordinator, logging on to http://www.va.gov/healthbenefits/vhic, or calling (877) 222-VETS (8387).