How to Apply for Veteran Directed Care: A Step-by-Step Guide
As a veteran, you may be eligible for Veteran Directed Care (VDC), a program designed to provide you with greater control over your healthcare and support services. VDC allows you to hire and manage your own caregivers, giving you the flexibility and autonomy to receive the care you need, when you need it. In this article, we will walk you through the step-by-step process of applying for VDC.
Who is Eligible for VDC?
Before we dive into the application process, it’s essential to understand who is eligible for VDC. To be eligible, you must be a veteran with a service-connected disability or a non-service-connected disability that requires daily care and support. You must also be eligible for VA health care services and have a primary care physician assigned to you through the VA.
How to Apply for VDC
Applying for VDC is a straightforward process that can be completed online or by phone. Here are the steps to follow:
Step 1: Contact the VA
To apply for VDC, you need to contact the VA’s Care Coordination and Resource Management (CCRM) program. You can do this by:
- Calling the VA’s CCRM program at 1-877-222-8387 (Monday to Friday, 8:00 am to 8:00 pm ET)
- Visiting the VA’s website and filling out the online application form
- Visiting your local VA medical center and speaking with a CCRM representative
Step 2: Gather Required Documents
Before applying for VDC, you will need to gather the following documents:
- A copy of your DD Form 214 (discharge paperwork)
- A copy of your VA Award Letter
- A list of your medical conditions and medications
- A description of the care and support services you need
- Contact information for your primary care physician and any other healthcare providers
Step 3: Complete the Application
Once you have gathered the required documents, you can complete the VDC application. The application will ask for the following information:
- Your personal and contact information
- Your medical conditions and medications
- The care and support services you need
- The number of hours of care you need per week
- Your preferred caregivers (if you have specific individuals in mind)
Step 4: Submit Your Application
Once you have completed the application, you can submit it to the VA’s CCRM program. You can submit your application online, by phone, or in person at your local VA medical center.
What Happens After You Apply?
After you submit your application, the VA’s CCRM program will review your application and contact you to schedule an assessment. The assessment will be conducted by a VA social worker or nurse who will:
- Review your application and medical information
- Assess your care and support needs
- Develop a care plan with you
- Identify potential caregivers and assign a Care Coordinator to work with you
Frequently Asked Questions
Here are some frequently asked questions about applying for VDC:
- Q: How long does the application process take?
A: The application process typically takes 30 to 60 days. - Q: Can I change my application after it’s been submitted?
A: Yes, you can make changes to your application after it’s been submitted. Contact the VA’s CCRM program to make changes. - Q: Can I hire my own caregivers?
A: Yes, you can hire your own caregivers as part of the VDC program. The VA will provide guidance on how to hire and manage your caregivers.
Conclusion
Applying for Veteran Directed Care is a straightforward process that can provide you with greater control over your healthcare and support services. By following the steps outlined in this article, you can apply for VDC and start receiving the care and support you need. Remember to gather the required documents, complete the application, and submit it to the VA’s CCRM program. With VDC, you can take control of your healthcare and live the life you want.
Additional Resources
- VA’s Care Coordination and Resource Management (CCRM) program: www.va.gov/care-coordination
- VA’s VDC Fact Sheet: www.va.gov/veteran-directed-care
- VA’s VDC Application Form: www.va.gov/veteran-directed-care/application-form
Table: VDC Application Process
Step | Description |
---|---|
1 | Contact the VA’s CCRM program |
2 | Gather required documents |
3 | Complete the application |
4 | Submit the application |
5 | Assessment and care plan development |
Bullets: Key Points to Remember
• You must be a veteran with a service-connected disability or a non-service-connected disability that requires daily care and support.
• You must be eligible for VA health care services and have a primary care physician assigned to you through the VA.
• You can apply for VDC online, by phone, or in person at your local VA medical center.
• You will need to gather required documents, including a copy of your DD Form 214 and a list of your medical conditions and medications.
• You will need to complete the VDC application and submit it to the VA’s CCRM program.
• The VA’s CCRM program will review your application and contact you to schedule an assessment.
• The assessment will be conducted by a VA social worker or nurse who will develop a care plan with you.