Caregivers of veterans asked for input on proposed VA rules

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Vacaregivers

The VA is currently seeking input on proposed changes that would expand access to its VA Program of Comprehensive Assistance for Family Caregivers (PCAFC).

A 60-day comment period, which started Dec. 17 and will expire in mid-February, is open to for the public to share its thoughts and experiences.

“We encourage veterans, caregivers and anyone involved with their care to review the proposed changes and provide their feedback,” said Kerr County Veteran Service Officer Jenna Sanchez.

Key proposed changes include:

  • Expanding eligibility. A broader definition of serious injury could allow more veterans and caregivers to qualify for support.

  • Add telehealth. The VA seeks to offer telehealth home visits during certain types of emergencies.

  • Extend delay in discharges based on reassessments. The proposed change would delay discharges based on eligibility reassessments for legacy participants, legacy applicants and their family caregivers for an additional 18 months after the effective date of a final rule. The delay in discharges is currently slated to expire in September 2025. VA’s suspension of required annual reassessments, including legacy reassessments, remains in place at this time.

  • Fewer reassessments required. Under the proposed rule, the VA would reassess eligibility less frequently, lowering the burden for veterans and their families.

  • Clarify eligibility. New criteria would expand and clarify the basis on which a veteran may be determined in need of personal care services for 6 continuous months.

“Your input is crucial,” Sanchez said. “Every comment will be reviewed to inform the final rulemaking. Remember, those are only proposed changes, and your voice can help shape the final rule.”

For more information about the PCAFC, visit www.caregiver.va.gov and see the frequently asked questions section.

“The VA said it is listening closely to veterans, caregivers, Veterans Service Organizations and other stakeholders in veteran care as it considers changes to the PCAFC, including those related to eligibility. It is important that you provide feedback, because that is an essential part of refining these updates and improving the program,” Sanchez said.

The VA Caregiver Support Program (CSP) enhances the health and well-being of caregivers of veterans through education, resources and services. Every VA facility has a CSP team that offers vital information to keep caregivers informed and supported. For more information, visit www.caregiver.va.gov.

Although this is a program through the VA health care system, the Kerr County Veterans Service Office can assist area veterans in getting their applications completed.

Veterans must meet criteria and have a service-connected (SC) rating. If they do not or are trying to obtain a higher rating, they can stop by the Kerr County Veterans Service Office for assistance.

The Kerr County Veterans Service Office is located in Suite 107 of the county-owned complex at 550 Earl Garrett Street in Kerrville. It is open Mondays through Thursdays. Walk-ins are welcome, but those with appointments are given priority. To schedule an appointment, call 830-792-2203