Frequently Asked Questions

If you do not find an answer to your question, you may call 1-877-222-8387 or
TDD 1-800-829-4833.

HealthierUS Veterans
What is HealthierUS Veterans?
HealthierUS Veterans is a joint project of the Department of Veterans Affairs and the Department of Health and Human Services.  Its aim is to educate veterans, their families and others about the health risks of overweight/obesity and physical inactivity.
 
Is HealthierUS Veterans an exercise or weight loss program, or diet?
HealthierUS Veterans focuses on eating healthy and being more active.  It is not an exercise or weight loss program or diet.

Who is HealthierUS Veterans designed for?
HealthierUS Veterans is designed for veterans of all ages and abilities.  There are activities for men and women, ambulatory and wheelchair veterans.

MOVE! Weight Management Program for Veterans 
What is MOVE!?
MOVE! is VA's National Weight Management program for Veterans.  MOVE! can help you lose weight, keep it off and improve your health.  Find out more at: www.move.va.gov.

Does my local VA have MOVE!?
All VA facilities offer MOVE! or an alternative weight management program.  Contact your nearest VA facility for more information.

I am not a veteran, can I participate in MOVE!?
MOVE! is designed for veterans using VA facilities.  Many facilities encourage family members to participate in group sessions.  All MOVE! materials, including the MOVE!23, MOVE! educational handouts, and other materials available on the MOVE! website www.move.va.gov.
 
I am a veteran, but I don't go to the VA for my healthcare, can I participate in MOVE!?
MOVE! is designed for veterans using VA facilities.  Check with your local VA benefits eligibility office to see if you are eligible to receive care from the VA.

What is the MOVE!23?
The MOVE!23 is a 23-item questionnaire that asks about your weight, health, prior attempts at weight loss, and your individual issues with losing weight and becoming more physically active.  Your answers guide an individualized report that includes recommended MOVE! handouts and other information to help you with your weight.

Prescription for Health
What is the Prescription for Health?
The Prescription for Health includes recommended steps to walk or miles to roll in a wheelchair.  Your VA medical provider can give you a Prescription for Health to encourage you to be more active.

Fitness Challenges
What are fitness challenges?
The fitness challenges are fun competitions designed to get you to eat better and increase your physical activity.

How can I participate in fitness challenges and other events?
Click here to find out more information about fitness challenges and getting more active.

I'm not athletic or in the best physical shape, can I still participate in the fitness challenges?
It's best to talk with your health care provider before beginning any physical activity or exercise program.

Steps to a HealthierUS
How do I find out more about Steps to a HealthierUS?  
The Department of Health and Human Services, Centers for Disease Control and Prevention has funded 40 communities to develop Steps to a HealthierUS Programs.  These programs target diabetes, obesity and asthma.  They provide information and resources to help people increase physical inactivity, eat better, and stop smoking.  Find out if your community has a Steps to a HealthierUS Program and how you can get involved at www.cdc.gov/steps*.

Fit for Life Veteran Volunteer Corps 
How can I volunteer to help?
Contact the Voluntary Services office at your local VA facility.  Let them know you want to help with HealthierUS Veterans and/or MOVE!  Also, visit the Fit for Life Veteran Volunteer page on this website for more information.
 

*By following this link, you will be leaving the Department of Veterans Affairs website.