For veterans who prefer to receive care in the comfort of their own homes, the U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs (VA) offers a range of in-home services through its Community Care Program. These services are designed to support veterans’ health, independence, and quality of life, especially when VA facilities are unable to provide the necessary care. At Dakota Home Care, we can help bring the care home to the veterans.
Understanding VA Community Care
The VA Community Care Program allows eligible veterans to access health care services from community providers when certain conditions are met. This includes situations where:
- The required service is not available at a VA facility.
- The veteran resides in a U.S. state or territory without a full-service VA medical facility.
- The veteran faces excessive wait times or travel burdens to access VA care.
Eligibility Requirements
To qualify for community care, you must:
- Be enrolled in or eligible for VA health care.
- Obtain approval from your VA health care team before receiving care from a community provider (except in certain urgent or emergency situations).
Situations That May Qualify You for Community Care
You may be eligible for community care if any of the following situations apply:
- VA does not offer the service you need.
- Grandfathered under the 40-mile rule: If you qualified under the Veterans Choice Program’s 40-mile distance requirement as of June 6, 2018, and still reside at the same address in states like North Dakota, you may remain eligible.
- Care is in your best medical interest (determined by you and your VA provider).
- VA cannot provide the service in a way that meets quality standards.
Important Considerations
- Pre-authorization is typically required, except for certain urgent or emergency situations, VA must authorize community care in advance.
- Care must be from the VA’s network of providers.
- In emergencies, you can seek care at a non-VA facility, but VA must be notified within 72 hours to cover the cost.
In-Home Care Services Available
Homemaker and Home Health Aide Care
The Homemaker and Home Health Aide program helps Veterans of all ages remain in their own homes by providing assistance with personal care and daily living activities. While not nurses, Homemakers and Home Health Aides work under the supervision of a registered nurse who assesses the veteran’s needs. This program supports Veterans who require help with daily tasks, are experiencing isolation, or have caregivers facing challenges.
Skilled Home Health Care
Skilled Home Health Care is a program designed for veterans transitioning from a hospital or nursing home back to their homes, offering care during recovery or ongoing support for those with continuing needs. The program provides skilled services such as nursing care, case management, physical therapy, occupational therapy, speech therapy, wound care, and IV antibiotics, ensuring comprehensive and personalized care for Veterans.
Accessing In-Home Care Services
To access these services:
- Consult Your VA Provider: Discuss your health care needs and preferences with your VA health care team. You can find your local Veteran Service Officer (VSO) here.
- Obtain a Referral: If eligible, your provider will submit a referral for community care services.
- Receive Authorization: The VA will review the referral and, if approved, provide authorization for the services.
- Select a Community Provider: Choose an in-network provider like Dakota Home Care.
- Schedule Services: Coordinate with the selected provider to schedule in-home services
Partnering with Dakota Home Care
Dakota Home Care is a participating VA Community Care provider and supports veterans through personalized in-home care. We ensure that veterans receive personalized, high-quality care tailored to their specific needs. By collaborating with the VA, we’re able to help bridge gaps in care and support veterans in maintaining their independence at home.
Learn more about Dakota Home Care’s services available to veterans here. Please contact us directly for help navigating eligibility and coordinating services for you or your family through our website or by calling (877) 691-0015.
For more information on the VA Community Care Program and in-home services, visit the VA Community Care website. There is a Veteran Service Officer (VSO) in every county available to you. To find the full directory, please visit www.veterans.nd.gov/about/find-a-service-officer.