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Health Services

The Fargo VA Health Care System offers a wide range services for Veterans in North Dakota and northwest Minnesota. Click on a service below for more details.

Primary care

Select a topic to learn more.

Complementary and integrative health

Complementary and integrative approaches like acupuncture, yoga, and meditation can improve mental health, help you manage pain, and promote wellness.

Available at these locations

Care we provide at VA Fargo health care

Whole Health

Whole Health is care that empowers and equips you to take charge of your health and well-being so you can live life to its fullest. It is care that goes beyond your disease and illness to focus on your values and goals. In a Whole Health approach to care, you will start hearing providers ask, ‘what matters most to YOU’ or ‘what do YOU want your health for,’ because what matters to you, matters to us! Whole Health centers around what matters to YOU and goes beyond your illnesses, injuries or disabilities.

Click here for more detailed information on VA Fargo's Whole Health Program and Service Offerings

 

Well Being Programs

Fargo VA Health Care System offers programs/classes that are designed to provide you with tools and skills to improve your health and quality of life. Whether it’s for wellness or to compliment conventional care, VA Fargo offers a variety of in person and virtual classes to enrolled Veterans such as: Gentle Yoga, Chair Yoga, Tai Chi: Tai Chi Chih, Eat Well, Be Well Cooking Class, Eating to Reduce Inflammation & Pain, Intro to Mindfulness Meditation, Qi Gong, Relaxation skills, Reiki, and the Christian Connection.

Click here for a detailed list of virtual and in-person classes at Fargo VA HCS

 

Whole Health Clinical Care

Providing outpatient care that is centered around healing environments and healing relationships. This will also include the use of modalities such as Acupuncture and Chiropractic. Fargo VA Health Care System offers the following services at our main Fargo Location:

  • Chiropractic Care
  • Acupuncture
  • Battlefield Acupuncture
  • Group Acupuncture
  • Medical Massage
  • Reiki
  • Clinical Hypnosis

Traveling to Fargo for your appointment? We offer several Walk-In and Call-Ahead services for Veterans to take advantage of our Whole Health Services.  

 

Point of Contact

 

Emergency care

In an emergency, call 911 or go to the nearest VA or non-VA emergency department. We provide immediate treatment for serious, life-threatening health emergencies such as severe chest pain, seizures, heavy uncontrollable bleeding or moderate to severe burns.

Available at these locations

Care we provide at VA Fargo health care

Care we provide at the Fargo VA Health Care System

We provide emergency medical care 24 hours a day, every day. Our emergency room staff can help you with:

  • Life-threatening illnesses and injuries that require immediate attention
  • Urgent medical issues that must be treated right away
  • Psychiatric evaluations

Geriatrics

Common conditions: memory problems, sleep problems, falls, bone loss, weight loss

As you age, we offer a range of medical and support services to help you stay as healthy, active and independent as possible. We also offer help to family members and caregivers who may support you.

Available at these locations

Care we provide at VA Fargo health care

Care we provide at the Fargo VA Health Care System

We assess your situation and condition to decide which outpatient geriatric services are right for you or a senior Veteran in your care, and then we coordinate your care. Our team of specialists provides geriatric services that include:

  • Medicine and nursing
  • Psychology, psychiatry, and social work
  • Physical and occupational therapy

Learn more about VA long-term care


Point of Contact 

  • Hospice -

Gynecology

Our specialists offer reproductive health care services for women Veterans, including contraception, pregnancy care and fertility treatment.

Available at these locations

Care we provide at VA Fargo health care

Care we provide at the Fargo VA Health Care System

Our gynecologists focus on the female reproductive system and provide services that include:

  • Mammograms for breast cancer, screenings for sexually transmitted disease, and Pap tests for cervical cancer
  • Counseling and treatment for contraception, pregnancy, and infertility
  • Osteoporosis screening for brittle bones
  • Exams for abnormal uterine bleeding, pelvic pain, or various cancers
  • Primary care checkups

 

Point of Contact

  • Women Veteran Program Manager -
  • Women Veteran Program Nurse Navigator -

Pharmacy

Our specialists provide a full range of services to help you get and understand your prescription medicines and supplies. You can refill VA prescriptions online, by phone or by mail.

Available at these locations

Care we provide at VA Fargo health care

Our pharmacy provides you and other Veterans with convenient, efficient service to make it easy to get your medications and medical supplies. You can:

  • Pick up new prescriptions in person
  • Refill prescriptions online and by phone or mail
  • Safely dispose of medicines

 

We have three (3) pharmacists stationed at Bismarck, Bemidji, and Minot. All of our CBOCs are covered by pharmacy by PACT care which includes medication management, but may include anticoagulation therapy, and other specialized follow-up as needed. 

Fargo Pharmacy Contact -

 

Primary care

Your VA primary care provider will work closely with you to plan for all the care you need to stay healthy and well throughout your life, including immunizations and vaccinations. They will also work with family members or caregivers who support you.

Available at these locations

Care we provide at VA Fargo health care

Care we provide at the Fargo VA Health Care System

A strong network of family and internal medicine specialists and services can offer you the best possible care. Internal medicine doctors (internists) prevent, diagnose, and treat adult diseases. Doctors who specialize in family medicine provide primary health care to the entire family. Your primary care team can coordinate the many services you receive such as:

  • Labs and blood work
  • Mental health care
  • Women's health care
  • Radiology
  • Social services
  • Telehealth

Women Veteran care

Common conditions: women's primary care, mental health, obstetrics, gynecology, pap smear, mammogram

We offer women’s health services to meet your specific needs such as disease screenings, mental health treatment, recovery from military sexual trauma, maternity care and female-specific medical equipment.

Available at these locations

Care we provide at VA Fargo health care

The Fargo VA Health Care System supports the health, welfare, and dignity of female Veterans and their families by ensuring equal access to timely, sensitive, and quality care. A Women Veterans Program Manager can help you get the services you need.

Our women's health program offers complete health care for women Veterans of all ages. Our primary care providers specialize in women’s health. They work closely with specialists in gynecology, obstetrics, female urology, oncology, medicine, radiology, surgery, and breast illness. Our services for women Veterans include:

  • Ultrasounds, mammograms, Pap and HPV tests
  • Mental health care and counseling
  • Lifestyle wellness services
  • Menopause treatment, including hormonal therapy
  • Family planning, contraceptive care, and infertility evaluation

Learn more and connect with a Women Veterans Program Manager

VA Fargo HCS Women Veterans Program Points of Contact

Call 1-855-VA-Women to access the VA Women Veterans Call Center

Mental health care

Select a topic to learn more.

Addiction and substance use care

We can help you overcome substance use problems from unhealthy alcohol use to life-threatening addiction. We match our services—like counseling, group therapy or medication—to your specific needs.

Care we provide at VA Fargo health care

Point of Contact: Kelly Readel - Kelly.Readel@va.gov

Mental health care

Common conditions: addiction, depression, anxiety, trauma, PTSD, bipolar disorder, schizophrenia, OCD

If you’re struggling with issues like PTSD, depression, grief, anger or trauma, we offer counseling and other support. All VA health care facilities offer same-day help. You may qualify even without enrolling in VA health care.

Available at these locations

Care we provide at VA Fargo health care

Our medical center and clinics provide consultation, evaluation, and treatment for a range of issues that may impact your mental health or emotional well-being. Our confidential outpatient services include individual and group therapy for:

  • Psychiatric disorders such as schizophrenia, bipolar disorder, and depression
  • Marriage and relationship problems
  • Post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD)
  • Anxiety, addictive behaviors, and personality disorders
  • Aggressive or self-harming behaviors

Learn more and connect with a care coordinator

 

 

Outpatient Mental Health Social Work

  • /3358/2264/4408/4041
  • Minot CBOC -
  • Grand Forks CBOC
  • Grand Forks & Grafton COBC-
  • Bismarck CBOC -
  • Fergus Falls CBOC - 
  • Evidence Based Practices Coordinator -

Behavioral Health Interdisciplinary Program (BHIP)(Team-Based Care) - A BHIP team is a group of mental health professionals working together to focus on Veterans' mental health and well-being. 

  • Fargo
  • BHIP Bemidji CBOC -
  • BHIP Dickinson CBOC -
  • BHIP Minot CBOC -

Rural Access Network for Growth Enhancement (RANGE) Program - is a Department of Veterans Affairs (VA) program that helps improve access to mental health services for Veterans in rural areas. 

  • Fargo - /3153/3115 or
  • Bismarck -
  • Fergus Falls -

Local Recovery Coordinator (LRC) - There is a mental health provider at each VA Medical Center to help Veterans with serious mental illness (SMI) access recovery oriented services. The Local Recovery Coordinator provides education and support to Veterans, family members, and VA Staff members about mental illness and recovery. The LRC promotes activities that remove barriers and stigma that may be associated with mental illness and ensures that Veterans with SMI have access to the rehabilitation and recovery services needed to attain their goals. 

  • Fargo -

Substance Use Disorder - A number of resources are available to health care providers who work with Veterans and may be concerned about a Veteran experiencing substance use disorder (SUD).

Supportive Services for Veteran Families - For very low income Veterans, SSVF provides case management supportive services to prevent the imminent loss of a Veteran's home or identify a new, more suitable housing situation for the individual and his or her family; or to rapidly re-house Veterans and their families who are homeless and might remain homeless without this assistance. 

  • or

 

 

Military sexual trauma care

Military sexual trauma can happen to both genders. If you experienced sexual assault or harassment during military service—no matter when you served—we provide counseling and treatment.

Available at these locations

Care we provide at VA Fargo health care

We offer care for military sexual trauma in our mental (behavioral) health clinics. Our goal is to help you improve your quality of life with strategies to manage emotions and memories related to your military sexual trauma. Our services include:

  • Counseling
  • Psychiatric care
  • Walk-in care

Learn more about military sexual trauma

Military Sexual Trauma (MST) refers to sexual assault or, threatening sexual harassment occurring during a Veteran's military service. VA has expanded eligibility for MST- related physical or mental conditions care to individuals who served in the Reserve and National Guard and were affected by sexual assault or sexual harassment while participating in weekend drill. To receive free MST-related care, Veterans:

• Do not need a VA service-connected disability

• Do not need to have reported the incident when it happened

• Do not need to have other documentation that it occurred

• There are no length-of-service requirements and

• May be able to receive free MST-related care even if they are not eligible for other VA care.

We offer care for military sexual trauma in our mental (behavioral) health clinics. Our goal is to help you improve your quality of life with strategies to manage emotions and memories related to your military sexual trauma. Our services include:

  • Counseling
  • Psychiatric care
  • Walk-in care

Learn more about military sexual trauma

Military Sexual Trauma Contact:  

 

PTSD care

If you have symptoms of PTSD after a traumatic event, we can help. We offer assessment and treatment support such as private counseling, group therapy and medication. It’s never too late to get help.

Care we provide at VA Fargo health care

For Information on Virtual PTSD Care, please call /3691/4425/3564

For Information on Face2Face PTSD Care, please call /3150

Psychiatry

If you’re struggling with a mental health problem—or just need to talk with someone—we can help. We offer treatment and support such as therapy, alternative treatments  and medications when needed.

Available at these locations

Care we provide at VA Fargo health care

If you’re struggling with a mental health problem—or just need to talk with someone—we can help. We offer treatment and support such as therapy, alternative treatments  and medications when needed.

Psychology

If you’re struggling with a mental health problem—or just need to talk with someone—we can help. We offer treatment and support such as therapy, alternative treatments and medications when needed.

Available at these locations

Care we provide at VA Fargo health care

Click here to learn about our Psychology Doctoral Internship Program

Suicide prevention

Call our Veterans Crisis Line at 988 and press 1 for free, private help anytime 24/7. Our local suicide prevention coordinators can also connect you with ongoing counseling and services.

Available at these locations

Care we provide at VA Fargo health care

If you're a Veteran who is thinking of hurting yourself—or you know a Veteran who’s considering this—we can help. Our Fargo VA Health Care System suicide prevention coordinators can get you the support you need. They work with our behavioral health providers and community organizations to assist Veterans who are managing emotional or mental health crises.

To connect with a Veterans Crisis Line responder anytime day or night:

 

The following is a list of contacts for the VA Fargo Suicide Prevention Program:

  • Suicide Prevention Coordinator(s) - /3370/3335/4142
  • Suicide Prevention Case Manager(s) - /4087
  • Suicide Prevention Community Engagement Program Coordinator -

 

Click here to view VA Fargo's Suicide Prevention Page

 

We work with behavioral health providers and community organizations to help you and your family during times of crisis. We offer:

  • Suicide prevention care coordinators
  • Suicide prevention case managers
  • Gun safety locks

Learn more and connect with a care coordinator

 

Specialty care

Select a topic to learn more.

Audiology and speech

Common conditions: tinnitus, vertigo, hearing loss, vestibular conditions, swallowing conditions

We diagnose and treat conditions affecting your hearing, speech or balance. These include hearing loss, tinnitus (noise or ringing the ears) & dizziness—also speech, language, voice or swallowing disorders.

Available at these locations

Care we provide at VA Fargo health care

Our Audiology and Speech Pathology clinic provides diagnostic and rehabilitative services, VA compensation and pension examinations, and screening for employee hearing conservation. We offer a full range of audiology and speech pathology services like:

  • Hearing and balance evaluations
  • Selection, management, and repair of hearing aids and assistive listening device assessments
  • Evaluation, programming, and management of cochlear implants and bone-anchored implants
  • Evaluation and treatment for auditory processing disorder
  • Services that help with speech, language, fluency, voice, cognitive communication, swallowing, stuttering, and laryngectomy (surgical removal of the larynx, which contains your vocal cords)

Learn more about VA hearing aids

Speech Therapy

701-239-3700, ext. 3047

Audiology

701-239-3700, ext. 3748

AudiologyVHAFARAudiology@va.gov

Speech PathologyVHAFARSpeechPathology@va.gov

Blind and low vision rehabilitation

Common conditions: macular degeneration, diabetic eye disease, glaucoma, corneal diseases, retinitis pigmentosa, uveitis, stroke, injury-related vision loss

We offer advanced vision care and blind rehabilitation services to help you live independently. These may include vision-enhancing devices and technology as well as visual skills and related training.

Available at these locations

Care we provide at VA Fargo health care

Low vision visits have an overall goal of optimizing the usage of remaining vision in veteran’s with visual impairment – more detailed goals are often patient-specific depending on their day-to-day vision demands. Criteria for visits is typically if vision cannot be corrected better than 20/40 in either eye or if they have a significant amount of visual field loss. 

  • Comprehensive Exam - Low vision visits include a thorough history of the veteran’s ocular health and any pertinent medical conditions, as well as in-depth assessment of how the veteran’s visual impairment is impacting their daily life and what devices the veteran has already been using to try to assist their vision outside of glasses. 
  • Visual Skills Assessment - There is then a visual function assessment with a complex refraction. 
  • Guidance on how to develop visual motor and perceptual skills - We then trial and train on low vision devices, such as magnifiers, telescopes, tints, and lighting, that can help the veteran meet their vision goals. 
    • We also discuss some non-optical visual aids and referral to the VIST coordinator as indicated. 
    • We will often discuss how specifically their eye conditions impact their visual functioning in detail. 
  • Discussions on considerations/restrictions for driving, as well as, other safety considerations. Formal visual field testing may be included as well to determine driving eligibility or legal blindness status. 

The exams are highly specialized, and normally last one hour to an hour and a half face-to-face.

 

Point of Contact

COVID-19 vaccines

Common conditions: coronavirus, COVID-19

We offer COVID-19 vaccines to all Veterans enrolled in VA health care. This includes Veterans who live or travel outside of the U.S. and are eligible for the VA Foreign Medical Program.

Available at these locations

Care we provide at VA Fargo health care

Learn more about COVID-19 vaccines at VA Fargo Health Care System

 

Health Promotion Disease Prevention Program Manager

701-239-3700, ext. 4039

Cancer care

VA provides expert cancer diagnosis and care. We offer services to support you through treatment and beyond.

Available at these locations

Care we provide at VA Fargo health care

If you’re diagnosed with cancer, our team will work with you, your primary care doctor, and other health care providers to develop a specialized treatment plan. We offer personal, compassionate, and expert care, with services like:

  • Surgical removal of tumors and other cancerous tissue
  • Immunotherapy, which helps your body’s natural defenses destroy cancer cells
  • Chemotherapy, which uses powerful drugs to fight cancer
  • Palliative care, to reduce pain and control other symptoms and side effects, like nausea

 

Point of Contact

  • /3522

 

Tumor Registry - Tumor registry is a component of the cancer program that is designed to access, abstract and conduct follow-up for primary tumors diagnosed and/or initially treated at this medical center and utilizes the VISTA Oncology Package (OncoTrax). The tumor registry is a database used for programmatic and administrative planning, research, and monitoring patient outcomes.

Tumor Registrar-  

Cardiology

Common conditions: heart disease, high blood pressure, heart rhythm disorders, angina, vascular diseases

Our cardiology specialists offer advanced treatment and care for conditions affecting your heart and blood vessels, including heart disease, stroke, heart rhythm disorders and high blood pressure.

Available at these locations

Care we provide at VA Fargo health care

Our cardiology specialists offer advanced treatment and care for conditions affecting your heart and blood vessels, including heart disease, stroke, heart rhythm disorders and high blood pressure

 

Point of Contact 

  • /3529

Chiropractic

Chiropractors work closely with your health care team to diagnose and manage muscle and joint conditions, including problems in the back, neck and other areas.

Available at these locations

Care we provide at VA Fargo health care

Chiropractic Services are offered via our Whole Health Department. 

Click here for more information on VA Fargo's Whole Health Department

Point of Contact 

Critical care

If you or a Veteran you care about has a life-threatening injury, infection, illness or breathing problem, we offer comprehensive care and constant monitoring in our intensive care units (ICUs).

Available at these locations

Care we provide at VA Fargo health care

Doctors in our intensive care units (ICUs) treat patients with serious illnesses or injuries, such as life-threatening infections, severe burns, brain injuries, and organ failure. Our critical care doctors (called intensivists) and nurses provide you with a full range of services, like:\

  • Monitor your heart rate, blood pressure, and breathing with cardiac and oxygen telemetry
  • Help your lungs work using a mechanical ventilator
  • Provide nutrition through a feeding tube in your vein, nose or mouth
  • Drain urine from your bladder using a catheter
  • Give fluids and medicine through your vein using an IV pump
  • Help prevent blood clots in your legs by using inflatable compression wraps and boots

 

Point of Contact

  • ICU -

Dental/oral surgery

Common conditions: teeth cleaning, fillings, restorations, root canal, bridges, dental implants, dentures

If you’re eligible for VA dental care, we provide dental screenings, cleanings, X-rays and fillings. We also provide specialty dental procedures like root canal, restorations and dentures.

Available at these locations

Care we provide at VA Fargo health care

If you’re eligible for VA dental care, we offer a full range of quality dental services like:

  • Routine exams and teeth cleaning
  • Restorative procedures, including fillings and crowns
  • Comprehensive surgical care, including extractions (pulling teeth) and oral cancer screening
  • Routine and advanced prosthodontic care, including bridges, dentures, and dental implants
  • Routine and advanced periodontal care, including root canals, gum treatments, and supporting bone care
  • Oral and facial reconstruction surgery to repair damage from traumatic injury or serious illness

 

Point of Contact 

  • Dental - /3372

Dermatology

Common conditions: psoriasis, eczema, skin cancer, acne, rosacea, allergic skin diseases, ulcers

Our dermatologists offer expert treatment for a range of conditions that affect your skin, hair and nails—from acne to psoriasis to skin cancer. We also offer skin cancer screening and education.

Available at these locations

Care we provide at VA Fargo health care

Our dermatologists offer expert treatment for a range of conditions that affect your skin, hair and nails—from acne to psoriasis to skin cancer. We also offer skin cancer screening and education.

 

Point of Contact

  • Dermatology -

 

TeleDermatology - Images of the skin are taken and then  uploaded and transmitted for later viewing and interpretation by a provider.

Teledermatology Point of Contact -

Endocrinology

Common conditions: diabetes, thyroid conditions, parathyroid conditions, endocrine conditions

We provide caring, expert treatment for diabetes and disorders of the endocrine, hormonal, glandular and metabolic systems.

Available at these locations

Care we provide at VA Fargo health care

We provide caring, expert treatment for diabetes and disorders of the endocrine, hormonal, glandular and metabolic systems.

Point of Contact - /3536

Gastroenterology

Common conditions: acid reflux, fatty liver, irritable bowel syndrome, inflammatory bowel disease, diarrhea, cancer screening

Our gastrointestinal (GI) specialists offer treatment and procedures (endoscopy, colonoscopy) for conditions affecting your GI tract, gallbladder, liver and pancreas, including acid reflux, inflammatory bowel disease (Crohn’s disease and ulcerative colitis), fatty liver disease, cirrhosis, irritable bowel syndrome, and pancreatitis.

Available at these locations

Care we provide at VA Fargo health care

We diagnose and treat medical conditions in your esophagus, stomach, intestines, colon, and other parts of your digestive system. We can also test and treat other organs, like your liver, pancreas, and gallbladder. Our gastroenterology department provides services like:

  • Colonoscopy, esophagogastroduodenoscopy (EGD), and endoscopic retrograde cholangiopancreatography (ERCP), which use an endoscope (a long, flexible tube with a small camera on the end) that lets us examine your digestive system
  • Endoscopic ultrasound, which uses high-frequency sound waves to create images that help us diagnose and evaluate digestive and lung diseases
  • Manometry study, which tests how well your esophagus is working
  • Small bowel capsule endoscopy, which uses a tiny wireless camera that takes pictures as it moves through your digestive system
  • 24-hour pH study, which measures how much stomach acid is flowing into your esophagus and helps us assess conditions like severe heartburn and acid reflux

 

Point of Contact 

  • GI -

Genomic medicine/medical genetics

We make sure you have access to state-of-the-art genetic counseling and diagnostic testing.

Available at these locations

Care we provide at VA Fargo health care

Pharmacogenomic Testing

Genetic Testing -Available at all of our Clinics

Genetic Testing to Determine the Best Medication for You

Pharmacogenomics (PGx) Testing for Veterans PHASER Program offers a no-cost blood test to Veterans to understand how your body responds to medications. Are you having trouble finding the right medication to avoid side effects? Ask your provider to submit a request for you to get a PHASER test.  

Blood Draws are Available:

Fargo - M-TH (noon cutoff on Thursday)

Outpatient Clinics (CBOCs) - M-W (Noon cutoff on Wednesday)

Point of Contact - /2881

Hematology/oncology

If you have a diagnosis of anemia, lymphoma, leukemia or another blood cancer or disorder, we support you with expert care and treatment.

Available at these locations

Care we provide at VA Fargo health care

We offer a range of hematology and oncology services. You can arrange appointments and consultation through your primary care provider. Our hematology and oncology services include:

  • Chemotherapy
  • Blood and platelet transfusions
  • Mediport flushes to clean and maintain the small medical appliance inserted under your skin, making it easier to inject drugs and draw blood
  • Evaluation and treatment of blood disorders and cancer
  • Dedicated outpatient infusion center, working closely with radiation oncology, interventional radiology, general surgery, diagnostics, palliative care, and social services
  • Bone marrow biopsies, to see whether your bone tissue is healthy and making a normal number of blood cells

 

National TeleOncology Program

The National TeleOncology Program is a VA-wide program that provides Veterans access to high-level, specialized cancer care close to home. The National TeleOncology (NTO) Program utilizes a “Hub and Spoke” model to support those facilities where oncology services are not available, more specialty care and/or gap coverage is needed. The “Hub” is comprised of physician oncologists, non-physician providers, oncology clinical pharmacy practitioners, and nurses who provide multi-disciplinary care to the “spoke” sites. Spoke sites are a combination of boots-on-the-ground physician oncologists, registered nurses, mid-level providers and pharmacists where oncology services are nurses who provide multi-disciplinary care to the “spoke” sites. Spoke sites are a combination of boots-on-the-ground physician oncologists, registered nurses, mid-level providers and pharmacists where oncology services are needed. The Hub NTO providers conduct patient appointments using CVT (Clinical Video Telehealth), VVC (VA-Video Connect) or by telephone with spoke support, allowing patients to obtain cancer care at their local VA or in the convenience of their own home.

 

Point of Contact

  • Oncology - /3522/3648/4153/3127/3944/3129

Laboratory and pathology

We offer blood tests and other advanced testing services to help you and your VA health care team monitor your health, find and understand any health problems and make informed treatment decisions.

Available at these locations

Care we provide at VA Fargo health care

Our laboratories provide a full range of accredited clinical and diagnostic testing services. Our laboratory and pathology services include:

  • Study of blood, urine, and other bodily fluids for illness management
  • Testing for infectious diseases
  • Cytopathology (study of unusual cells) and surgical pathology (study of tissue removed during surgery)
  • Autopsy services

 

VA Fargo Lab Points of Contact - Ancillary Testing-3187/3965, Chemistry 3982/3983 Hematology 3984/3185, Histology 3191, Microbiology 3196, Pathology Office 3976

MOVE! weight management

Common conditions: overweight, obesity, diabetes, high blood pressure

We offer easy-to-follow weight management plans backed by the latest science. Our experts can help you reduce health risks, prevent or reverse some diseases and live a better—and even longer—life.

Available at these locations

Care we provide at VA Fargo health care

MOVE! is a weight-management program designed to help you live a longer, healthier life. With the help of your MOVE! care team, you can eat a healthier diet, get more exercise, reduce your health risks, and improve your quality of life. The MOVE! program offers:

  • Weight-loss support groups to help you lose weight and keep it off
  • Healthy eating tips and cooking classes
  • Behavioral change strategies to help you live a healthier lifestyle

Learn more about MOVE!

The VA Fargo Move Weight Management Program is offered in-person, video, or phone group meetings 2x/month

Nephrology

Common conditions: Dialysis, kidney disease, high blood pressure, hypertension

Our specialists offer you advanced care for kidney-related diseases like chronic kidney disease, high blood pressure and fluid and electrolyte problems. We also provide dialysis and related support.

Available at these locations

Care we provide at VA Fargo health care

Our team of kidney doctors (nephrologists) actively manage all aspects of adult kidney disease, kidney and bladder stones, renal hypertension (high blood pressure caused by kidney disease), and mineral and bone disorders. We provide inpatient and outpatient services, like:

  • Dialysis preparation and referral
  • Home patient monitoring
  • Kidney transplant evaluation
  • Kidney disease education

 

Point of Contact

  • /2294

Neurology

Common conditions: cognitive disorders, epilepsy, headache, motor neuron diseases, movement disorders, multiple sclerosis, stroke

Our specialists evaluate and treat conditions and diseases of the brain, spine, and nervous system, including headache, stroke, Alzheimer's disease, epilepsy, Parkinson’s disease and other conditions.

Available at these locations

Care we provide at VA Fargo health care

The Department of Neurology specializes in disorders of the brain, spinal cord, and nerves providing comprehensive evaluation and treatment of a variety of neurological problems. These include:

  • Epilepsy
  • Multiple sclerosis
  • Parkinson's disease, epilepsy, and multiple sclerosis
  • Peripheral neuropathies
  • Stroke, dimentia, and degenerative diseases
  • Headache

The physicians and nurses coordinate and manage care of adult patients in conjunction with primary physicians and other specialists. The department maintains an active electrophysiology laboratory that performs:

  • Electroencephalography (EEG)
  • Electromyography (EMG)
  • Nerve conduction studies (NCS)

These studies investigate a wide variety of pathologic processes involving the brain, peripheral nerves, and muscles. Botulinum toxin (Botox) services are also provided for a variety of conditions including dystonia, torticollis, and hemifacial spasm.

Point of Contact

Nutrition, food, and dietary care

Our nutrition experts work closely with you and your care team to help make sure you’re getting the nutrition you need to get and stay as healthy as possible.

Available at these locations

Care we provide at VA Fargo health care

Care we provide at the Fargo VA Health Care System

Our registered dietitians can help you maintain or improve your health with good nutrition tailored to your needs. Through group and individual sessions (in-person, virtually, by telehealth, and over the phone) we provide nutrition education and counseling in areas such as:

  • Pre-diabetes and diabetes
  • Heart health - cardiovascular disease and high blood pressure
  • Chronic Kidney Disease
  • Digestive health and anti-inflammatory nutrition
  • Unintended weight loss
  • Chewing and swallowing
  • Pregnancy and postpartum nutrition
  • Weight management

Ophthalmology

Common conditions: cataracts, glaucoma, macular degeneration, diabetic eye disease

Our ophthalmology specialists diagnose and provide medical and surgical care for conditions that affect your eyes—like cataracts, glaucoma, macular degeneration and diabetic retinopathy.

Available at these locations

Care we provide at VA Fargo health care

Our ophthalmology specialists diagnose and provide medical and surgical care for conditions that affect your eyes—like cataracts, glaucoma, macular degeneration and diabetic retinopathy.

Point of Contact -

Optometry

Common conditions: vision exams, prescription eyeglasses, contact lenses

Our optometrists offer you routine eye exams, preventive vision testing and treatment for conditions like glaucoma. We also provide prescriptions for eyeglasses and other assistive devices.

Available at these locations

Care we provide at VA Fargo health care

Our optometrists provide many eye-related services and treatments like:

  • Vision services and eye exams
  • Treatment for diseases and injuries of the retina, cornea, and other parts of your eye
  • Low-vision services for conditions like macular degeneration that can’t be corrected by glasses, surgery, or medication
  • Special eye exams for diabetic patients

 

VA Fargo Medical Center Eye Clinic -

Orthopedics

Common conditions: arthritis, musculoskeletal disorders, tendon repair, ligament repair, joint replacement

Our orthopedists offer advanced care and treatment for issues related to muscles, bones and joints, including arthritis, disorders of the muscles and bones, tendon and ligament repair and joint replacement.

Available at these locations

Care we provide at VA Fargo health care

We use surgical and nonsurgical means to treat illnesses and disorders of the musculoskeletal system, which includes your bones, muscles, joints, cartilage, tendons, ligaments, and other connective tissue. We treat conditions like:

  • Musculoskeletal trauma
  • Degenerative illnesses
  • Sports injuries

Palliative and hospice care

Palliative care focuses on comfort, quality of life and reducing suffering. Hospice care is a type of palliative care offered to patients with life-threatening illness under certain conditions.

Available at these locations

Care we provide at VA Fargo health care

Our palliative and hospice care services support you and your family as you cope with a life-threatening or terminal illness. Palliative care works to provide comfort, reduce suffering, and improve the quality of life for patients being treated for serious illnesses. Hospice care focuses on helping patients with terminal illnesses to manage the final stages of their lives. Our palliative and hospice care services include:

  • Pain and symptom management
  • Emotional, spiritual, and psychosocial support for you and your family
  • Help with practical issues that include an advance directive (living will), health care power of attorney, funeral arrangements, and applying for VA death and burial benefits
  • Education to help you and your family make informed health care decisions and know what to expect as your health declines
  • Bereavement care to help surviving family members during the grieving process

Physical therapy, occupational therapy and kinesiotherapy

Physical therapy, occupational therapy and kinesiotherapy can help restore movement and function if you have been disabled by injury or disease.

Available at these locations

Care we provide at VA Fargo health care

If you’re living with or recovering from an injury, illness, or chronic condition that limits your mobility and independence, we can help. Our physical, occupational, and movement therapists combine therapeutic exercise, counseling, education, and training to help you improve your health and quality of life. Our services include:

  • Pain relief and joint mobilization
  • Movement and exercise therapies to improve your strength, endurance, balance, and coordination
  • Mobility assessment and training with wheelchairs, scooters, and walking devices
  • Life skills training and activities to help you maintain the highest level of independence and functionality
  • Aquatic therapy to manage chronic pain
  • Evaluation and treatment for a wide range of medical, orthopedic, psychosocial, and neurological conditions

 

Physical Therapy (PT) - Assessment focuses on neuromuscular and musculoskeletal functions that include posture, gait, strength and endurance, balance, coordination, or joint mobility and flexibility. Goals are directed towards prevention, reducing disability or pain, restoring lost function, maximizing functional, physical and mobility levels. Includes Prosthetic Rehab, Vestibular Rehab (assess dizziness), and BIG program for Parkinson's.

Physical Therapy Contact:


Occupational Therapy (OT) involves the therapeutic use of everyday life activities (occupations) with individuals, groups, communities, and populations to optimize independence, quality of life, and participation in roles in the home, school, workplace, community, and other settings. OT services are provided for rehabilitation, and health promotion and wellness by using evidence-based clinical services. Occupational therapy services are provided at: Outpatient clinics, Inpatient settings, Community Living Centers, Veterans' homes and communities, and Tele-rehabilitation. Occupational Therapy covers a broad spectrum of neurological, orthopedic, medical, pre/post-surgical, and mental (behavioral) health conditions, as well as health promotion, wellness, and management of chronic conditions. 

Occupational Therapy Contact:

Podiatry

Common conditions: arthritis, bunions, diabetic foot care, foot deformities, skin conditions, nail conditions

Our podiatry specialists evaluate and treat a wide range of injuries, diseases and disorders that affect your feet and ankles—from ingrown toenails to inflammation to diabetic foot ulcers.

Available at these locations

Care we provide at VA Fargo health care

After years of walking, running, marching, jumping, rappelling, and parachuting, many Veterans experience trouble with their feet and ankles. We can help treat those problems so you can continue to enjoy an active lifestyle. Our podiatry services include:

  • Arthritis care for inflamed, swollen, or damaged joints
  • Foot and ankle fracture treatment; repair of cartilage, torn tendons and ligaments
  • Injections to reduce pain and swelling
  • Joint arthroplasty (surgical repair or reconstruction) and replacement
  • Minimally invasive surgery and post-surgical rehabilitation
  • Foot health maintenance procedures (bunion removal, resurfacing, and nail trimming)

Polytrauma and traumatic brain injury

We provide a thoughtful, wide-ranging approach to treating Veterans who have injuries to multiple body systems caused by a single event.

Available at these locations

Care we provide at VA Fargo health care

VA’s Polytrauma System of Care (PSC) is an integrated network of specialized rehabilitation programs dedicated to serving Veterans and Service Members with both combat and civilian related Traumatic Brain Injury (TBI) and polytrauma. Services available through PCS include: interdisciplinary evaluation and treatment, development of a comprehensive plan of care, case management, patient and family education and training, psychosocial support, and application of advanced rehabilitation treatments and prosthetic technologies.

Point of Contact -

Prosthetics and rehabilitation

We provide and help you use medical aids, hearing aids, state-of-the-art adaptive home equipment and other equipment to help you preserve and increase your mobility and independence.

Available at these locations

Care we provide at VA Fargo health care

VA is the world’s largest and most comprehensive provider of sensory aides and prosthetic devices. Veterans enrolled in the VA health care system and referred by a physical medicine and rehabilitation physician can receive a full range of services and equipment like:

  • Artificial limbs and surgical implants, including artificial joints and pacemakers
  • Wheelchairs and other medical devices
  • Aids for Veterans who are blind, have low vision, or are hearing impaired
  • Adaptive equipment and modifications to make your vehicle or home more accessible
  • Other devices and services to help increase your mobility, dignity, and independence
  • Clothing allowance for Veterans with devices that damage their clothing

 

Prosthetics Representative -

 

 

Mobile Prosthetic & Orthotic Care (MoPOC)

MoPOC offers state of the art, accessible prosthetic and orthotic (P&O) services for rural-based Veterans and those who experience barriers traveling to VA facilities. MoPOC brings convenient and comfortable P&O specialty care to VA Community Based Outpatient Clinics (CBOCs) and Veterans’ homes. Mobile units are staffed by VA Certified Prosthetists/Orthotists and equipped with a suite of tools and technologies to deliver onsite, seamless care. Veteran services include the fabrication, modification and fitting of custom prosthetic and orthotic devices.

Fargo VA HCS MoPOC Rotational Schedule

Monday: Grand Forks CBOC
Tuesday: Fergus Falls CBOC
1st and 3rd Wednesdays of the month: Bemidji CBOC

2nd and 4th Wednesdays of the month: Jamestown CBOC
Thursday: Administrative Day
Friday: No Travel Day

 

The Amputee Clinic provides specialized and comprehensive management of Veterans with amputation(s), utilizing an interdisciplinary team approach. This includes offering the latest practices in medical interventions, prosthetic limbs, assistive technology and rehabilitation strategies to restore function and thereby optimize quality of life. 

Amputee Clinic -

Pulmonary medicine

Common conditions: tuberculosis, respiratory conditions, sleep apnea, sleep problems

Our pulmonary medicine team treats diseases and conditions that affect the lungs and breathing, including asthma, tuberculosis, chronic obstructive pulmonary disease, acute respiratory distress syndrome and sleep apnea.

Available at these locations

Care we provide at VA Fargo health care

If you find it difficult to breathe or sleep, our pulmonary (lung) specialists can help. We offer education, exercises, and treatments like:

  • Oxygen therapy to help you stay active and breathe better
  • Pulmonary rehabilitation to build your strength and increase lung capacity
  • Healthy diets to help you manage your weight and improve energy
  • Strategies to help you increase your feelings of control, optimism, and self-esteem
  • Tests to measure your lung function, lung volume, and blood gas

Radiology

We use imaging to help screen for, diagnose, and treat illness and injury. We provide X-rays and other imaging technologies.

Available at these locations

Care we provide at VA Fargo health care

We offer radiology and imaging services to diagnose and treat many medical conditions. Our services include:

  • X-ray
  • Ultrasound
  • Mammography (mammograms)
  • Computer tomography (CT)
  • Magnetic resonance imaging (MRI)

 

Imaging POC:

Rehabilitation and extended care

We provide medical care and rehabilitation services to Veterans in our Community Living Center and in their homes. Services include home-based primary care, medical foster home support, and hospice and palliative care.

Available at these locations

Care we provide at VA Fargo health care

We provide long-term care to help you and your family when you’re dealing with a disability, chronic (long-lasting) illness, terminal illness, or serious health issues related to aging. Our long-term health care services include:

  • 24/7 nursing and medical care
  • Physical therapy
  • Help with daily tasks like bathing, dressing, making meals, and taking medicine
  • Pain management and palliative care to relieve suffering and improve quality of life for people with serious illnesses
  • Hospice care to provide comfort and compassionate care for people in the last phases of an incurable illness
  • To learn more about the different types of extended care that VA provides, see our guide to long-term services and support.

Learn more about VA long-term care

 

Contract Nursing Home - A Community Nursing Home is a place where Veterans can live full time and receive skilled nursing care any time of day or night. VA contracts with community nursing homes to care for Veterans. The Community Nursing Home program is offered in many communities so Veterans can receive care near their homes and families. 

  • Contract Nursing Home Coordinator
  • Contract Nursing Home Social Worker

Bismarck

  • Home Based Primary Care & Contract Nursing Home

 

Community Living Center (CLC) - While some Veterans qualify for indefinite Community Living Center (formerly known as nursing home care) services, other Veterans may qualify for a limited time. The Fargo VA CLC is a 38 bed unit located at the Fargo VAMC and is a component of the spectrum of long-term care that provides a skilled nursing environment and houses a variety of specialty programs for persons needing short and long stay services.  Provision of services is consistent with the long term care standards set forth by The Joint Commission (TJC).

  • Community Living Center Social Worker

 

Behavioral Recovery Outreach (BRO) - The BRO Team's goal is to address unmet needs of our aging Veteran population with complex medical, psychological, neurocognitive and behavioral concerns. BRO Teams provide evidence-informed treatments in inpatient VA settings, and transitional care/support post-discharge to ensure successful placement and stability in the community.

  • Behavioral Recovery Outreach (BRO) Coordinator 3184

 

Adult Day Health Care - is a program Veterans can go to during the day for social activities, peer support, companionship, and recreation. Adult Day Health Care can provide respite care for a family caregiver and can also help Veterans and their caregiver gain skills to manage the Veteran's care at home.

The program is for Veterans who need help with activities of daily living. Examples include help with bathing, dressing, or fixing meals. This program is also for Veterans who are isolated or their caregiver is experiencing burden. Adult Day Health Care can be used in combination with other Home and Community Based Services.

  • Adult Day Health Care

 

Medical Foster Home - When living at home becomes difficult, most people would rather remain in a home-like setting than move to a nursing home. The (MFH) Program offers Veterans more options to support independence in a home-like environment.

  • Medical Foster Home

Click here to go to our Medical Foster Home page for more detailed information

 

Hospice & Palliative Care

  • Hospice/Palliative Care Coordinator

 

Spinal Cord Injury & Disorders Program - VA Fargo works together with the Minneapolis VA Spinal Cord Injury and Disorder unit utilizing Telemedicine to coordinate and enhance care, focusing on prevention, or early detection of complications. Includes evaluation and treatment of patients with limited function because of disease, injury, or impairment due to a spinal cord disorder. The Minneapolis VA Spinal Cord Injury and Disorder unit specializes in providing care for acute and chronic health problems in the paralyzed Veteran.

The SCI/D Spoke PACT is a team of health care professionals that provides comprehensive primary care in partnership with the Veteran and manages and coordinates comprehensive health care services consistent with agreed upon goals of care.  SCI/D Spoke PACT professionals have received education and training about SCI/D to better understand unique SCI/D conditions, manage primary care conditions, and collaborate with SCI/D experts in through a hub and spokes system of care and are built upon interdisciplinary, comprehensive services provided at SCI/D Centers. 

  • Spinal Cord Injury Coordinator

 

Home Based Primary Care -Home Based Primary Care (HBPC) is health care services provided to Veterans in their home. The program is for Veterans who need team based in-home support for ongoing diseases and illnesses that affect their health and daily activities.
Veterans usually have difficulty making and keeping clinic visits because of the severity of their illness and are often homebound, but that is not required.
This program is also for Veterans who are isolated, or their caregiver is experiencing burden. Home Based Primary Care can be used in combination with other Home and Community Based Services such as home health agencies.

All enrolled Veterans are eligible if they meet the clinical need for the program.  HBPC is offered to Veterans who live within a 50-mile radius of Fargo or Bismarck

HBPC provides a team of experienced health care professionals. Together they 
review the Veteran’s health care needs and offer treatments and support for the  
Veteran and his/her caregivers.  

Services provided by the HBPC team include: 
    •Primary care visits at home by a nurse practitioner 
    •Visits by a registered nurse 
    •Social Work 
    •Rehabilitation 
    •Psychology
    •Nutrition 
    •Pharmacy
    •Chaplaincy

Home Based Primary Care (HBPC) is synonymous with HBPC Special Population Patient Aligned Care Team (PACT) and means comprehensive, longitudinal, in-home primary care provided by a VA- interdisciplinary 
team with physician oversight in the homes of Veterans with a complex, chronic and disabling disease for whom routine clinic-based care is not effective. 

  • Home Based Primary Care
  • Home Based Primary Care Social Worker

Bismarck

Home Based Primary Care & Contract Nursing Home

 

Traumatic Brain Injury - VA’s Polytrauma System of Care (PSC) is an integrated network of specialized rehabilitation programs dedicated to serving Veterans and Service Members with both combat and civilian related Traumatic Brain Injury (TBI) and polytrauma. Services available through PCS include: interdisciplinary evaluation and treatment, development of a comprehensive plan of care, case management, patient and family education and training, psychosocial support, and application of advanced rehabilitation treatments and prosthetic technologies. 

  • Traumatic Brain Injury

 

Veteran Directed Care (VDC) - Program is one of several Personal Care Services (PCS) providing supportive care to Veterans, allowing them to age safely and independently in their homes and communities for as long as possible. In VDC, Veterans manage a Veteran-specific monthly budget, with oversight and support from community Providers, to purchase goods and services to best meet their needs. This includes directly hiring employees, including family members and friends, to provide personal care services. Veterans must meet clinical and administrative eligibility for VDC to receive services under the Veteran Directed Care.

  • Veteran Directed Care Coordinator

12

 

Sleep medicine

Common conditions: insomnia, narcolepsy, restless legs syndrome, sleep apnea, sleepwalking

The sleep medicine service diagnoses and treats your sleep problems, including trouble sleeping, breathing difficulties while sleeping, snoring, teeth grinding and jaw clenching.

Available at these locations

Care we provide at VA Fargo health care

The sleep medicine service diagnoses and treats your sleep problems, including trouble sleeping, breathing difficulties while sleeping, snoring, teeth grinding and jaw clenching.

Smoking and tobacco cessation

If you are trying to quit smoking or want to stop using tobacco, we can help you with support, resources and programs.

Available at these locations

Care we provide at VA Fargo health care

You can quit smoking or chewing tobacco. Our goal is to provide support and strategies to add to optional nicotine replacement therapy prescribed by your primary care doctor. These include:

  • FDA-approved medications to manage nicotine withdrawal and the urge to smoke.
  • Counseling in person or by phone
  • Tobacco Cessation Quitline for individual counseling and strategies
  • SmokefreeVET text message program for daily advice and interactive support
  • Stay Quit Coach mobile app to help you quit smoking and stay smoke-free

Learn more about how to quit

Point of Contact 

Spinal cord injuries and disorders

If you have a spinal cord injury or disorder, our specialists provide coordinated care throughout your life. We work to help you achieve your goals for independence, productivity and quality of life.

Available at these locations

Care we provide at VA Fargo health care

VA has the nation’s largest system of care for spinal cord injuries and disorders. We provide a convenient, connected network of experts to care for you during each phase of your life. Our experienced primary care providers are trained to check for problems unique to spinal cord injuries.

  • Pressure ulcers
  • Pneumonia
  • Blood clots
  • Bladder and sexual issues
  • Constipation and other gastrointestinal problems
  • Sexual issues

VA Fargo works together with the Minneapolis VA Spinal Cord Injury and Disorder Center utilizing Telemedicine to coordinate and enhance care, focusing on prevention, or early detection of complications. Includes evaluation and treatment of patients with limited function because of disease, injury, or impairment due to a spinal cord disorder. The Minneapolis VA Spinal Cord Injury and Disorder Center specializes in providing care for acute and chronic health problems in the paralyzed Veteran.

The Spinal Cord Injury & Disorders Program (SCI/D) Spoke Patient Aligned Care Team (PACT) is a team of health caer professionals that provides comprehensive primary care in partnership with the Veteran and manages and coordinates comprehensive health care services consistent with agreed upon goals of care.  SCI/D Spoke PACT professionals have received education and training about SCI/D to better understand unique SCI/D conditions, manage primary care conditions, and collaborate with SCI/D experts in through a hub and spokes system of care and are built upon interdisciplinary, comprehensive services provided at SCI/D Centers. 

Learn more about the VA spinal cord injuries and disorders care system

Lean more about the VA Minneapolis Spinal Cord Injury and Disorder Center

Contact:

Surgery

If you are having surgery, we make sure that your procedure and follow-up care are safe and high-quality.

Available at these locations

Care we provide at VA Fargo health care

We provide a wide range of surgical services, like:

  • General surgery
  • Anesthesia
  • Cardiac surgery (heart and major blood vessels)
  • Neurosurgery (brain, spinal column, and nerves)
  • Orthopedic surgery (bones, muscles, ligaments, joints, and tendons)
  • Organ and tissue transplants

Transplant surgery

We are experts in life-saving transplants, including kidney, liver, heart, lung, small bowel, bone marrow and stem cell.

Available at these locations

Care we provide at VA Fargo health care

Solid organ (kidney, kidney/pancreas, liver, heart, heart/lung, and lung) and bone marrow/stem cell transplants are life-saving procedures provided to eligible Veterans by the Department of Veterans Affairs (VA).  VA Transplant Centers are located across the country--see locations map.  The VA has offered solid organ transplant services since 1962 and bone marrow transplant services since 1982. 

Our transplant surgeons work to save or extend lives by transplanting healthy, fully functioning organs from living or deceased donors to patients who need one. We offer:

  • Liver transplants
  • Kidney transplants
  • Heart transplants
  • Lung transplants
  • Referrals to other transplant centers

 

Referring Organ Transplant Coordinator:

Urology

Common conditions: prostate cancer, erectile dysfunction, urinary disorders

We offer understanding and advanced care and treatment to Veterans with conditions that affect the male urinary and reproductive systems and the female urinary system.

Available at these locations

Care we provide at VA Fargo health care

We evaluate, diagnose, and treat a wide range of urology diseases and conditions that include kidney stones, erectile dysfunction, urinary incontinence, prostate cancer, and more. We provide you with medical care, surgery, and minimally invasive procedures for health issues that affect:

  • Kidneys
  • Bladder
  • Ureter and urethra
  • Male reproductive organs

Vascular surgery

Common conditions: vascular conditions, varicose veins

Our expert team diagnoses and treats diseases and conditions that affect arteries, veins and blood circulation.

Available at these locations

Care we provide at VA Fargo health care

Our vascular surgeons treat illnesses of your arteries and veins. Our surgeons can treat these problems with medication and exercise. Vascular illness causes include:

  • Arteriosclerosis and/or atherosclerosis (caused by the buildup of plaque in your arteries that restricts blood flow to your organs and tissues)
  • Aortic aneurysm and aortic valve disease
  • Deep vein thrombosis and blockage by a blood clot or fatty deposit
  • Varicose veins
  • Vasculitis (inflammation of your blood vessels)
  • Varicose veins
  • Trauma or injury

Wound care and ostomy

We provide thoughtful, compassionate diagnosis and treatment for Veterans with acute or chronic wounds or those who need ostomy care.

Available at these locations

Care we provide at VA Fargo health care

Healing your wounds is an important step in your recovery and rehabilitation. Our wound care team will assess your wound, determine where you are in the healing process, and provide a treatment plan for your care. If you’ve had ostomy surgery and are living with either a temporary or permanent stoma (a surgical opening to allow urine, feces, or body fluids to exit your body), we can help you manage the care of your stoma, make good product choices, and cope with the effects of ostomy surgery. We provide care and support for:

  • Open, non-healing, and hard-to-heal wounds
  • Localized incisions and infected or draining wounds
  • Bedsores (also known as pressure ulcers or decubitus ulcers)
  • Amputations
  • Wounds or leaking seals around your stoma
  • Skin rashes

 

Wound Care Clinic:

Wound Care: /3846

TeleWound

Images of a wound are taken and uploaded for viewing by a provider at a remote location.

 

 

Social programs and services

Select a topic to learn more.

Caregiver support

If you are caring for a Veteran with serious illness or disabilities, we can help you support them—and take care of yourself. You may qualify for services like training, counseling or respite care when you need a break.

Available at these locations

Care we provide at VA Fargo health care

If you’re a caregiver for a Veteran, you can get support by contacting one of our caregiver support coordinators. If the Veteran you care for was injured post-9/11, you may be eligible for even more services, including a stipend to help with expenses, training, and medical coverage if you aren’t already covered. For all caregivers, we can:

  • Help you get caregiver assistance available through VA
  • Provide progressive needs planning to help you manage degenerative conditions
  • Match you with services and benefits
  • Connect you with local resources and programs
  • Listen to you when you struggle

Learn more and connect with a support coordinator

Click Here to Learn More about VA Fargo Health Care System Caregiver Support Program

Caregivers provide a valuable service for Veterans and are "partners" with us in providing excellent healthcare. To support these efforts, VA Fargo offers a number of services to support you and the Veteran you care for. Our caregiver support team is standing by to help you find what you need, whether it's in-home help, someone to listen to, or anything in between.

  • /4507/4268/3872/4398/4516
  • Bismarck -

Homeless Veteran care

If you’re homeless or at risk of becoming homeless, we can help. We offer many programs and services, including free health care. And we can help you connect with resources in your community.

Available at these locations

Care we provide at VA Fargo health care

The Fargo VA HCS Health Care for Homeless Veterans (HCHV) Program is based out of our Community Resource and Referral Center in Downtown Fargo, ND and consists of the below programs. This program combines Housing Choice Voucher (HCV), rental assistance for homeless Veterans, with case management and clinical services provided by the VA. VA Fargo Health Care System provides these services in Fargo, Grand Forks, Bismarck, Dickinson, Williston, Minot, Belcourt, and Mahnomen

  • US Department of Housing and Urban Development - VA Supportive Housing (HUD/VASH)
  • Tribal HUD/VASH Program
  • Grant & Per Diem Program (Homeless Housing)
  • Passport Program (Housing)
  • Passport Program (Dental)
  • Homeless Veterans Community Employment Services
  • Veterans Justice Outreach

 

Below is a list of contact information for our Health Care for Homeless Veterans Program:

  • Homeless Veteran Outreach - ension 7421 or 7420 or /
  • Social Services - ension 7331
  • Peer Specialist - or 7427 or /
  • Community Employment Coordinator - or
  • Grant Per Diem Liaison - or
  • Veterans Justice Outreach - or
  • Coordinated Entry Social Worker -
  • Homeless Outreach / HUD VASH Coordinator Belcourt/Devils Lake or
  • Fargo HUD VASH - /7422/7411/7424/7423
  • Homeless Outreach Dickinson -
  • Homeless Outreach Minot -
  • Homeless Outreach Bismarck - or
  • Homeless Outreach Grand Forks - or
  • Homeless Outreach Williston - or
  • Homeless Outreach Bemidji - or

 

 

 

 

Intimate partner violence support

If you feel that you or a loved one are in or may be in a potentially abusive or violent relationship, we can help.

Available at these locations

Care we provide at VA Fargo health care

Intimate partner violence (IPV) is when a current or former intimate partner (like a boyfriend, girlfriend, or spouse) stalks, harms, or threatens to harm their partner. Intimate partner violence can be emotional, physical, or sexual. It can also lead to short-term and long-term health problems, and a wide range of mental health issues. If you or someone you know is in a potentially abusive or violent relationship, we can help. We offer:

  • Intimate partner violence care coordinators
  • Links to community-based support groups, and advocacy and legal services
  • Referrals to and coordination with other VA treatment providers
  • Connection to domestic violence shelters
  • Services for Veterans who are homeless
  • Interventions for Veterans who use violence in their intimate relationships

Learn more about intimate partner violence

Point of Contact

LGBTQ+ Veteran care

If you're a Veteran who identifies as lesbian, gay, bisexual, transgender, queer/questioning, or a related identity, we’re committed to serving your needs. The LGBTQ+ Veteran care coordinator at your VA health care facility can help you get the care you need in a safe, sensitive environment.

Available at these locations

Care we provide at VA Fargo health care

We promote the health, welfare, and dignity of Veterans who identify as lesbian, gay, bisexual, transgender, queer/questioning (LGBTQ+) or a related identity. We focus on ensuring a safe, welcoming, and affirmative environment when providing you with sensitive and high-quality health care services like:

  • Hormone therapy
  • Substance use and alcohol treatment
  • Testing and treatment for HIV and sexually transmitted infections (STI)
  • Mental health care
  • Psychosocial assessments for gender-confirming surgeries and hormone therapy

 

Click Here to learn more about VA Fargo's LGBTQ+ Veteran Care

Point of Contact 

Minority Veteran care

We offer resources and support for minority Veterans to help address your specific needs with benefits and services at VA.

Available at these locations

Care we provide at VA Fargo health care

If you’re a minority Veteran, we can help you get the services and benefits you need. Our Minority Veterans Program serves all Veterans who are Black American, Asian American, Hispanic American, and Native American (including American Indians, Alaska Natives, Native Hawaiians, and Pacific Island Americans). We work to:

  • Help the medical center address minority Veterans’ needs
  • Meet minority Veterans’ needs in the local community
  • Identify barriers and create a more accessible environment for minority Veterans
  • Inform minority Veterans of VA benefits, services, and programs

Learn more and connect with a care coordinator

Point of Contact 

 

Patient advocates

VA wants to make sure that you get the best possible care. If you need help finding care or getting problems resolved, please contact a patient advocate.

Available at these locations

Care we provide at VA Fargo health care

Our patient advocates work hard to make sure you receive the best possible care at our health care facilities. They can:

  • Help you get answers or address concerns with your care team
  • Advocate for patient and family rights
  • Serve as advocates for minority Veterans, women Veterans, and Veterans with disabilities
  • Offer specialized help to former prisoners of war and Veterans transitioning from Operation Enduring Freedom (OEF), Operation Iraqi Freedom (OIF), and Operation New Dawn (OND)

Learn more and connect with a patient advocate

Returning service member care

If you’re returning from military service, we can help you readjust to civilian life and get started with VA health care. We can also help connect you with programs like mental health services and education and career counseling.

Available at these locations

Care we provide at VA Fargo health care

We can help you readjust to civilian life if you’re returning from military service, on active duty, or an activated National Guard or Reserve member. Talk to one of our care coordinators about how to best use your health care benefits.

  • Polytrauma care (if you have multiple traumatic injuries)
  • Counseling and rehabilitation
  • Mental and behavioral health services
  • Family benefits counseling and assistance
  • Referral assistance

Learn more and connect with a coordinator

 

Point of Contact 

Social work

Social workers are here to help Veterans, families and caregivers with almost any need, from help with finances or housing to questions about treatment to just feeling overwhelmed. We are here for you.

Available at these locations

Care we provide at VA Fargo health care

Social work is integral to health care. We can help you and your family manage stress-related problems due to injury or illness, and find VA community resources to meet your needs like:

  • Home health services
  • Legal services
  • Transportation
  • Community living

 

Social Work Associates

  • /3874

 

Community Based Outpatient Clinic Social Workers

  • Bemidji CBOC -

 

Patient Aligned Care Team - PACT is the cornerstone of the New Models of Care initiative that is intended to transform the way Veterans receive care. PACT assists VHA in transforming Veterans' care by providing patient-driven, proactive, personalized, team-based care focused on wellness and disease prevention resulting in improvements in Veteran satisfaction, improved healthcare outcomes, and costs. The PACT model is built on the well-known concept of the patient-centered medical home staffed by high-functioning teams.

  • Pain & PACT -
  • Fergus Falls & Williston CBOCs -
  • Devils Lake & Minot CBOCs -
  • Bismarck & Dickinson CBOCs -
  • Grand Forks & Grafton CBOCs -
  • Rural, Bemidji & Jamestown CBOCs -

 

Care Coordination and Integrated Case Management - A VA practice framework called Care Coordination and Integrated Case Management (CC & ICM) seeks to engage, coordinate, and collaborate with health care professionals and community partners. It’s designed to ensure comprehensive, Veteran-centered care that enhances access, health outcomes, and social and emotional well-being. The facility Care Coordination Review Team (CCRT) assigns lead coordinators to high-risk Veterans who frequently use VA care. With a lead coordinator, the Veteran doesn’t need to reach out to multiple providers. Instead, they can use their assigned Lead Coordinator to help them manage the many parts of their VA care.

 

Emergency Department Social Worker

 

Intimate Partner Violence Assistance Program (IPVAP) - The VA’s Intimate Partner Violence Assistance Program (IPVAP) is committed to helping Veterans, their partners, and VA staff who are impacted by IPV. 

 

Post 9/11 Military 2VA Transition and Case Management - Every VA medical center has a specialized Post-9/11 Military2VA (M2VA) team ready to welcome you as you transition from service member to Veteran. Your Post-9/11 M2VA team will assist you, your family, and caregivers in navigating the VA health care system and support you in achieving your health and wellness goals.

 

Advance Care Planning & Life-Sustaining Treatment Decisions Initiative (LSTDI) - If you become very sick or hurt and cannot speak for yourself, you can decide in advance the kinds of treatments you want by Completing an Advance Directive

  •  

Oncology/Renal Social Work

Other services

Select a topic to learn more.

Community engagement

We provide private organizations and community agencies education on our Veteran community and military culture. Together, we build referral networks to expand support for Veterans, service members, and their families.

Care we provide at VA Fargo health care

Click Here for more information on VHA Community Engagement 

Couples and family counseling

We offer couples and family counseling to support you as you work toward meeting your goals.

Care we provide at VA Fargo health care

The Department of Veterans Affairs is committed to supporting Veterans and their loved ones. We have designed a continuum of services to meet the unique needs of different Veteran families, including-- illness and psychological health education, brief consultation, skills-based family psychoeducation, and couples therapy. In addition, we want to support Veterans in being the best parents they can be, and help family members learn optimal ways to support Veterans' recoveries. This website is designed to offer VA mental health clinicians the information and skills they need to assist the people in each Veterans' social network support his/her recoveries.

My HealtheVet coordinator

Your My HealtheVet coordinator can help you start using the VA online portal to manage your appointments and records, refill prescriptions, view your lab and test results and communicate with your health care team.

Available at these locations

Care we provide at VA Fargo health care

My HealtheVet is a web-based tool you can use to manage your care and improve your health from your computer or mobile device. You can access your personal health records and use tools to manage your care through our My HealtheVet online system. You can also use My HealtheVet to refill your prescriptions, track appointments, and read informative health articles. If you need help using My HealtheVet, you can contact our coordinator by phone or in person. With My HealtheVet, you can:

  • Ask questions and exchange secure online messages with your VA health care team
  • Check your lab and test results
  • Refill your prescriptions, track delivery, and view a list of your medications
  • Keep track of your VA medical appointments and get email reminders
  • View, download, or print a copy of your VA medical records

    Learn more and register for an account at the following links: My HealtheVet or VA.gov

Telehealth

With VA telehealth, you can get care from your health providers without having to travel. Get checkups and treatment, talk about your care and more—from home or elsewhere.

Available at these locations

Care we provide at VA Fargo health care

We use the latest in secure digital technology to set up remote visits with our health care providers. We offer video conferencing, home telehealth services, and store-and-forward telehealth that lets you securely send your health information to experts at VA facilities. We offer telehealth visits with providers in:

  • Mental health
  • Retinal care (eye)
  • Bariatric surgery (visit remotely with your weight-loss surgery team before and after your operation)
  • Dermatology
  • Rehabilitation
  • Primary care
  • Cardiology
  • Diabetes Education
  • Chaplain Services
  • Compensation & Pension
  • Home Telehealth
  • Hospice
  • MOVE! Weight Management
  • Nephrology
  • Neurology
  • Nutrition
  • Oncology
  • Orthopedics
  • Palliative Care
  • Pharmacy
  • Physical Therapy
  • Pre/Post-Surgical
  • Pulmonary
  • Rheumatology
  • Speech
  • Social Services
  • Spinal Cord Injury
  • Spirometry
  • Substance Abuse
  • TeleRetinal Imaging
  • TeleAudiology
  • TeleWound
  • Teledermatology
  • Urology
  • Women's Health
  • CVT to Home (Computer, tablet or cellphone)
  • Genomics

Learn more about VA Fargo Connected Care

Learn more about telehealth

 

Below are a list of Points of Contact for Telehealth Services:

  • Fargo VAMC - /3974/2705/2702/2734
  • Schedulers - Ext. 3267/4424/4409/4449

 

Community Based Outpatient Clinics

  • Bemidji CBOC - /2253
  • Bismarck CBOC - /2247/2237
  • Dickinson CBOC -
  • Devils Lake CBOC -
  • Fergus Falls CBOC - /2238
  • Grafton CBOC -
  • Grand Forks CBOC - /2229
  • Jamestown CBOC -
  • Minot CBOC - /2626
  • Williston CBOC -
  • Lisbon Veterans Home -

 

Home Telehealth

  • /2714/2719/2716/2735/2702/3178/4208/3974

Travel reimbursement

If you have to travel far for care, we may be able to reimburse (repay) you for travel expenses. We can also help arrange transportation for getting to and from your VA appointment.

Available at these locations

Care we provide at VA Fargo health care

If you’re traveling for VA-approved care, we can repay you for the cost of using regular transportation that includes cars, planes, trains, buses, taxis, rideshare, or light rail. You may also be eligible for repayment when using ambulances, wheelchair vans, or ambulettes (non-emergency medical transportation).

  • Round-trip transportation services between your home and our hospital and clinics (beneficiary travel)
  • Mileage reimbursement debit cards

Learn more about VA travel pay reimbursement

Virtual Health Resource Center (VHRC)

Virtual Health Resource Centers (VHRCs), located in VA medical centers, offer technical support to Veterans, family members, and caregivers who need help using virtual care tools such as VA Video Connect, My HealtheVet, remote medical monitoring devices, and VA mobile apps. You can make a VHRC appointment for technical guidance, help setting up a VA-loaned device, hands-on support, training, and troubleshooting, and other help with virtual care tools. We are available on the phone, through video, and in person.

Available at these locations

Care we provide at VA Fargo health care

Fargo VA’s Virtual Health Resource Center (VHRC) offers support to Veterans, their family members and caregivers, and VA staff looking to take advantage of virtual care tools. Our VHRC has local health technology experts to provide guidance, hands-on support, training, help troubleshooting, and other information regarding virtual care tools, such as VA Video Connect, My HealtheVet, health apps, and devices. 

Veterans can speak with an expert to determine which virtual care options might be right for their health and lifestyle needs. The experts are also available to help Veterans get started with VA apps or set up VA-loaned devices.

The VHRC is in room 1C-86 of the Fargo VA Medical Center and open Monday – Friday (except federal holidays) 8:00 am – 4:00 pm for phone, video, and in-person consultations. No appointments are necessary. 

Please call the Fargo VA Connected Health office at with questions. For more information about what a Virtual Health Resource Center can offer, please visit Virtual Health Resource Centers | Connected Care (va.gov).

Whole health

Whole health puts you at the center of care, rather than your illnesses or conditions. We work with you to develop a personalized health plan based on your values, needs, and goals.

Available at these locations

Care we provide at VA Fargo health care

Care we provide at VA Fargo health care

Whole Health

Whole Health is care that empowers and equips you to take charge of your health and well-being so you can live life to its fullest. It is care that goes beyond your disease and illness to focus on your values and goals. In a Whole Health approach to care, you will start hearing providers ask, ‘what matters most to YOU’ or ‘what do YOU want your health for,’ because what matters to you, matters to us! Whole Health centers around what matters to YOU and goes beyond your illnesses, injuries or disabilities.

Click here for more detailed information on VA Fargo's Whole Health Program and Service Offerings

 

Well Being Programs

Fargo VA Health Care System offers programs/classes that are designed to provide you with tools and skills to improve your health and quality of life. Whether it’s for wellness or to compliment conventional care, VA Fargo offers a variety of in person and virtual classes to enrolled Veterans such as: Gentle Yoga, Chair Yoga, Tai Chi: Tai Chi Chih, Eat Well, Be Well Cooking Class, Eating to Reduce Inflammation & Pain, Intro to Mindfulness Meditation, Qi Gong, Relaxation skills, Reiki, and the Christian Connection.

Click here for a detailed list of virtual and in-person classes at Fargo VA HCS

 

Whole Health Clinical Care

Providing outpatient care that is centered around healing environments and healing relationships. This will also include the use of modalities such as Acupuncture and Chiropractic. Fargo VA Health Care System offers the following services at our main Fargo Location:

  • Chiropractic Care
  • Acupuncture
  • Battlefield Acupuncture
  • Group Acupuncture
  • Medical Massage
  • Reiki
  • Clinical Hypnosis

Learn more about VA Fargo Whole Health

Learn more about VA whole health

Traveling to Fargo for your appointment? We offer several Walk-In and Call-Ahead services for Veterans to take advantage of our Whole Health Services.  

 

Point of Contact