Improving Veteran Access to Care by Streamlining Scheduling

EPS Provider FAQs

Pdf Summary

The Department of Veterans Affairs (VA) has launched External Provider Scheduling (EPS) to streamline appointment scheduling with community care providers. EPS allows VA schedulers to book appointments directly into the scheduling systems of participating community providers, eliminating the need for multiple faxes and calls. This real-time connectivity reduces scheduling time and administrative workload while ensuring providers maintain full control over their available times shared with the VA.<br /><br />Participation in EPS is voluntary, and providers can continue receiving Veteran referrals through existing processes if preferred. EPS integrates with over 150 electronic health record (EHR) and scheduling platforms, including solutions like Zocdoc, Blockit, and Kyruus, so providers do not need to use specific EHR systems such as Epic, Cerner, or Athena Health to participate. There is no cost to join the EPS program.<br /><br />Appointments are initially scheduled via EPS for new referrals, while follow-up appointments for chronic conditions are arranged directly between the provider and the Veteran. Referral packets, including authorization numbers, will still be sent according to standard procedures through fax, secured email, or systems like the Veterans Health Information Exchange (VHIE).<br /><br />To cancel or reschedule EPS-booked appointments, providers must contact the VA using details in the referral packet to ensure proper updates to referral authorizations. Providers are responsible for managing appointment reminders within their existing workflows. Technical support for scheduling system issues is available through the provider’s digital scheduling connection.<br /><br />VA records and medical histories are not accessible directly through EPS but are shared securely through referral packets. EPS complies fully with HIPAA privacy and security regulations to protect Veteran confidentiality and data security. Initial reports indicate EPS improves access to care and reduces no-show rates among Veterans. Providers with questions can contact the EPS Provider Engagement Team via email.

Keywords

Department of Veterans Affairs

External Provider Scheduling

community care providers

appointment scheduling

electronic health record integration

Veteran referrals

real-time connectivity

HIPAA compliance

scheduling system support

Veteran healthcare access