A device intended to be used to change, noninvasively, one or more of the operating parameters (the programs) of an implanted stimulator used for vagus nerve stimulation (VNS). It is able to read stored parameters in the implanted device, providing historic and/or current information regarding device performance. The device is typically an electronic wand with a communication antenna that connects to the port of a personal computer (PC) with dedicated software. The PC will then drive the electronics of the wand to communicate with the implanted stimulation system.