Noteboom The Law Firm

VA Rolls Out Long-Awaited Childcare Pilot Program

The demographic of returning veterans and their families has changed drastically over the last decade or so, and the Department of Veterans Affairs (VA) has been forced to adapt to those changes. It is impossible to remain stagnant as a health care provider and continue to provide the best possible care.

In keeping with those necessary adaptations, VA Sec. Eric Shinseki made a long-awaited announcement. The VA will now provide "free, drop-in childcare services." For now, the childcare will be provided at 3 VA medical centers:

 

·      Northport, NY;

·      Tacoma, WA; and

·      Buffalo, NY.

 

All veterans deserve access to the "high-quality health care" the VA provides. According to Sec. Shinseki, the VA believes the provided childcare will help veterans access the health care they need by removing at least one fairly large obstacle from their path. The VA acknowledges the number of female veterans serving as the primary care takers of young children, which is who this childcare is aimed at helping.

Only licensed childcare providers will be able to operate the childcare centers. Any veteran qualifying for VA health care is free to use the drop-in service as long as they are attending an appointment at a VA medical center.

Female veterans use VA health care at lower rates than male veterans. Both male and female veterans, however, will benefit from this pilot program, and the freedom to pursue help it will provide.

If you are a disabled veteran who has been denied disability compensation or have not yet applied for benefits from the VA, a South Florida disability attorney from LaVan & Neidenberg is ready to help. To learn if you are entitled to certain programs and benefits contact our veterans disability rights firm today - 1-888-234-5758.