What is Veteran-Directed Care (VDC)?

The Veteran Directed Care (VDC) Program empowers Veterans of all ages to access Home and Community-Based Services, granting them the autonomy to make personal decisions about their care.

Veterans are eligible for VDC if they meet the criteria for community care, satisfy clinical requirements, and are evaluated by a Veteran Administration physician. Veterans who are enrolled in a Medicaid Waiver can participate in the program, and there is no financial criteria.

Budget

WRAAA takes the lead in facilitating services for enrolled Veterans through Person-Centered Counselors, who help determine service purchases with the Veteran's budget. Participants manage their budget with the support of a representative and assistance from a Person-Centered Counselor.

Their budget is based on the Case Mix Rate, reflecting healthcare costs related to each Veteran's specific needs. The VA reviews and approves spending plans, evaluated monthly for ongoing relevance and effectiveness.

This flexibility allows Veterans to hire workers, including family or neighbors, to assist with daily tasks, enabling them to live comfortably at home or in the community.

Activities of Daily Living (ADLs)

The program guides Veterans or their representatives in creating a budget and managing independent living through tasks like:

• Eating
• Dressing
• Personal grooming
• Bathing
• Using the bathroom
• Mobility
• Grocery shopping

Financial Management Services (FMS)

Financial Management Service Agencies (FMS) manage the Veteran's budget, such as paying employees, IRS paperwork, and tax filing. Funds are not directly transferred to the Veteran.

Referral

WRAAA has operated this program since September 2023 and has successfully assisted over 200 Veterans. We are actively accepting referrals in all 5 counties and will coordinate closely with the Veteran and the VA to ensure comprehensive support.

For more information or to make a referral, please contact us at 216-727-2852 or email VeteranDirectedCare@areaagingsolutions.org. 

More Information

Veteran-Directed Care Program, the purpose and how it works: Administration for Community Living.

Veteran-Directed Care, geriatrics and extended care: U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs. 

Reference:

U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs. (n.d.). Veteran directed care. Veterans Affairs. https://www.va.gov/geriatrics/pages/Veteran-Directed_Care.asp

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