Noteboom The Law Firm

VA Pioneering Long Term Health Care Programs

June 17, 2010 - Despite the Department of Veterans Affairs (VA) receiving very poor press as far as their processing of disability claims, there is one thing they are doing very well: long-term health care. Indeed, the VA is nothing if not an innovating force in the field.

The VA provides complete and inclusive health care for veterans suffering from chronic disabling diseases and unable to travel for care through their Hospital Based Primary Care Program. This program provides intensive home care and most importantly, keeps veterans in their own homes. At the same time, the program reduces costs.

Should the veteran require movement to a VA nursing home, they will be in for a surprise. The VA has changed the focus of the care in their nursing homes. That is, the VA takes a more individualized and complete care approach. The VA operates under the mindset of doing what is necessary in order to get the veteran in a good enough position to return home.

The VA's approach to veteran care in a nursing home based environment includes:

• Encouraged independence;
• Emphasized rehabilitation; and
• Choice.

 The VA also developed the Veterans Medical Foster Home program. When veterans can no longer live alone but do not want to live in a nursing home, they can possibly stay with a volunteer family willing to take them into their home. The VA provides the care giving and the family provides the comfort. Along these same lines, the VA is looking into building housing units. These units would allow veterans to receive long term health care in a home-like environment.

While there may be issues with other VA departments, as far as their ability to provide long term health care through pioneering programs, they are leading the way.