The VA-HCBS program gives Veterans of all ages the opportunity to receive the home and community based services they need in a self-directed manner. Veterans that enroll in this program are given a flexible budget for services that can be managed by the Veteran or their family caregiver. This program helps Veterans continue to live in their home or in their community by providing greater access to choice and control over their long term care services.
Clients on the VA-HCBS program can:
- Decide for themselves what mix of services will best meet their needs.
- When and how services will be provided.
- Hire their own personal care aides (which might include a family member, neighbor).
- Purchase items and services that will help them live independently in their own home.
- If a Veteran is unable to manage their care but still desires to enroll on the program, a representative (family/friend) can be appointed to assist with the enrollment
Services provided through this program include:
- Personal care services using workers the Veteran selects
- Housekeeping, chores, and companion services
- Savings for needed supplies to live independently
- Counselor to assist with identifying care needs and hiring workers
- Financial management assistance to process employer/employee paperwork, process time sheets, etc.
Veterans Direct HCBS Program will be administered by local Area Agencies on Aging throughout the state of Alabama. The goal of the Area Agencies on Aging is to offer all Veterans living in Alabama and receiving services through the VAMC’s Homemaker/Home Health Aide program the option of enrolling in this program to self-direct their long-term care needs.