VA News – VA has proposed updates to expand access to the Program of Comprehensive Assistance for Family Caregivers (PCAFC) and values the feedback of caregivers and Veterans in shaping the final rule.
The 60-day public comment period offers Veterans, caregivers and everyone involved in their care the opportunity to share their thoughts and experiences, and every comment will be carefully reviewed to inform the final rulemaking. Remember, these are only proposed changes, and your voice can help shape the final rule.
The proposed rule would:
- Expand eligibility: A broader definition of serious injury could allow more Veterans and caregivers to qualify for support.
- Add telehealth flexibility: VA seeks to offer telehealth home visits during certain types of emergencies.
- Extend delay in discharges based on reassessments: This proposed rule 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.
- Require fewer reassessments: Under the proposed rule, 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 six continuous months.
