FORT RILEY, Kansas  –   When you’re feeling under the weather but can’t make it to Irwin Army Community Hospital, you now have a virtual option to get care without leaving home.

The Virtually Integrated Patient Readiness and Remote (VIPRR) care clinic is an urgent care alternative for TRICARE Prime beneficiaries age 12 and older. VIPRR connects patients to credentialed military health providers through the MHS Nurse Advice Line by calling 1-800-TRICARE or visiting mhsnurseadviceline.com. It’s designed to help patients in communities like Fort Riley where access to in-person appointments may be limited.

Getting care through VIPRR starts with a call to the MHS Nurse Advice Line 1-800-TRICARE. A registered nurse will listen to your symptoms and determine whether your concern can be safely handled virtually. If so, the nurse will schedule a same-day appointment with a VIPRR provider.

Appointments are available Monday – Friday, 5:30 a.m. - 10:30 p.m. During your visit, you’ll meet with a provider over a secure phone or video connection. Your provider will document the diagnosis and treatment plan in MHS GENESIS, ensuring your care team at IACH stays fully informed. Providers can even send prescriptions to the IACH pharmacy or to a TRICARE-authorized retail pharmacy of your choice.

VIPRR is a great fit for non-emergency health issues that need prompt attention but don’t require an in-person exam. Some examples include:
• Respiratory issues: Sinus congestion, infections, cough, or allergies
• Throat problems: Sore throat or hoarseness
• Skin conditions: Rashes, acne, or minor skin irritations
• Pain: Muscle aches, joint discomfort, or headaches

If you’re unsure whether your condition qualifies, the Nurse Advice Line will guide you. If your symptoms are more serious, you’ll be directed to urgent care or the emergency room instead.

Before your appointment, make sure you’re in a quiet, private space with reliable phone or internet service. Have your current medication list and pharmacy information ready.
If your condition worsens while waiting for your appointment, or if the provider determines an in-person evaluation is needed, you’ll be advised to follow up at IACH or another care site. Your safety always comes first.

While VIPRR makes care more accessible, it’s not a replacement for your Primary Care Manager. Whenever possible, scheduling an in-person appointment remains the best way to ensure continuity and long-term management of your health. For those times when duty, distance, or circumstance make in-person care difficult, VIPRR gives patients another trusted way to stay on top of their health.

To schedule a virtual appointment Monday – Friday, 5:30 a.m. – 10:30 p.m., call the MHS Nurse Advice Line at 1-800-TRICARE or visit mhsnurseadviceline.com.