Noteboom The Law Firm

Expanding VA Program Focuses on Veterans’ Long Term Health Needs

January 18, 2011 - The Department of Veterans Affairs (VA) can be a very intimidating for veterans seeking health care and other assistance. From its massive size to veterans who don't even know what type of help they need, seeking help from the VA can be difficult or confusing for veterans and their families, especially regarding long-term health needs.

One solution is having the VA release more information about the various programs they offer. For those seeking end of life care for veterans, the VA offers the Veterans Administration's Veterans Directed Home and Community-Based Services Program. This program was created in 2008 and is slated to be available nationwide sometime in 2011.

Empowerment is one word used to describe what the program provides. The program allows those veterans being cared for to contribute more into their care plan, with their ultimate goal to avoid institutionalization. Having veterans participate more in their own care instead of accepting imposed care does more for the mental well being of both the veteran and their family. Families and veterans together can decide what is best for them, as opposed to being told what is best.

The Veterans Administration's Veterans Directed Home and Community-Based Services Program provides custom-tailored care plans. Veterans then choose how, when, and to what extent that plan will be implemented. This program is a serious departure for the VA from how they normally provide this type of care. Veterans make decisions ranging from health care to financial matters, but are given the tools they need to make informed choices.