Community health workers helps individuals access resources. Program connects people to resources including: - Developing better home environments - Increasing health literacy - Locating options for care - Stabilizing employment circumstances - Understanding complex paperwork for services

Provides information including: - Assistance with accessing services and therapies - Education in monitoring lifetime maximums on insurance benefits - Family empowerment

Patient Call Center: (612)467-1100 Applying for and determining eligibility for VA health care benefits: Apply online or complete an Application for Health Care Benefits (Form 10-10EZ) and mail to Minneapolis VA Health Care System, Patient Access Center (17A1), One Veterans Drive, Minneapolis, MN 55417. (877)-222-VETS, 7 am - 7 pm Monday - Friday. Visit website for more information https://www.minneapolis.va.gov/patients/eligibility.asp or https://www.choose.va.gov/health/ Scheduling Appointments: Visit website for detailed information on how to make an appointment by phone or online https://www.minneapolis.va.gov/patients/appointments.asp. AudioCare provides the option to cancel, confirm, or reschedule an existing appointment 24 hours/7 days a week, (855)560-1721. Access to Care website provides information to help decide the best VA location to receive care, https://www.accesstocare.va.gov/ Lodging Options: There are several choices in overnight accommodation and transportation for patients or families of military service members being treated at the Minneapolis VA Medical Center. For assistance and complete information, call the Lodging Office (866)414-5058 ext. 4289 or (612)467-4289, 8 am - 4:30 pm Monday - Friday. Visit website for more information https://www.minneapolis.va.gov/visitors/visi_lodging.asp Veterans Health Identification Card (VHIC): The VHIC is issued only to veterans who are eligible for VA medical benefits and only for the purpose of identification and check-in for VA medical appointments. Veterans do not need a VA identification card to access VA health care. Visit the Eligibility & Enrollment Desk in the Flag Atrium near the main entrance, or call (877)222-8387. Advance Directives: A legal form that helps doctors and family members understand the patients wishes about medical and mental health care. Customer Service/Patient Advocates: Provides personal attention and works on behalf of veterans and their families and caregivers to address and resolve important issues related to individuals concerns and rights as a patient. Compliments, complaints or concerns about patient care quality and safety can be directed to Patient Advocates at (612)467-2106. Billing and Insurance: (866)347-2352 Release of Information: Processes requests for medical records and assists providers with completing forms for patients. The Release of Information Office is located in the basement between the center elevators and the outpatient elevators, room BR-105, across from the Blood Draw clinic, (612)467-1992, fax number is (612)467-2197. Caregiver Support Program: Caregiver Support Program (612)467-5405, Caregiver Support Line (855)260-3274, and Services For Family Caregivers of Veterans, Minneapolis (612)467-5405, Saint Cloud (320)252-1670 ext. 7283. Chaplain Service: Offers pastoral care and spiritual counseling to all patients, their families, and the hospital staff. Worships services are held every day of the week and Chaplains are available for individual visits, Chaplain Service Office, First Floor, Flag Atrium, (612)467-2027 ext. 31-2027, 8 am - 4:30 pm Monday - Friday. Community Care: Provides Veterans with local care in the community through approved non-VA medical providers for the Minneapolis VA Health Care System and VA Clinics. Veterans may be able to go to a non-VA provider using VA coverage for certain types of health services that are not provided by the VA, (612)467-6565 or (877)881-7618, 8:30 am - 3:30 pm Monday - Friday.

Provides information, resources, and support needed to move life forward. These partners help navigate the challenges of MS unique to each individual's situation. In addition to connections to other MS Society services navigators: Navigate through the complexities of finding healthcare providers, benefits, insurance and access to coverage, and employment Offer financial assistance with obtaining durable medical equipment and aids for daily living, emergency financial assistance for help with housing or utility shut off, respite care, chores, home modifications, and more. Will assist individuals with future planning. Help provide wellness strategies that can improve quality of life including suggestions on diet, exercise, emotional well-being, and connection to local resources Assess for personalized case management through the Edward M. Dowd Personal Advocate Program Provide crisis intervention in times of need