VA Launches Long-term Veteran Caregiver Program

VA Southern Nevada Healthcare System (VASNHS) has instituted a new program for Veterans who can no longer safely live independently and require around-the-clock care. Called the Medical Foster Home (MFH) program, this community-based living arrangement is intended as an affordable alternative to traditional nursing home placement. 

Under a unique partnership, Veterans are placed in licensed adult care homes with a VA-trained caregiver who provides planned care.

VA provides the caregiver with biannual training for direct patient care instruction as well as access to the 24-hour nurse advice line to assist with Veteran needs after-hours and during holidays. 

Veterans are responsible for directly paying the caregivers each month. Rates are negotiable and based on the Veteran's level of care needs and set by the caregivers. 

“The Medical Foster Home program meets the increasing demand for long-term care services through care in a non-institutional setting,” said NAME, VASNHS’ Medical Foster Home program coordinator. “Currently, we are looking for caring and nurturing individuals with some caregiving experience to foster Veterans locally.” 

Caregivers must be at least 21 years of age, hold or willing to pursue a State of Nevada license to operate an adult care home, be financially stable, and pass background checks. Additionally, MFH caregivers must pass initial and yearly VA home inspections.

Those interested in becoming a MFH caregiver, should review the Medical Foster Home Checklist, then: 

Call the VASNHS MFH coordinator at:

Main Office: 702-791-9000, ext. 13494

Watch the video for more about the Medical Foster Home Program at VA https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=U767AaA5A9A.

Jaison Bloom, Public Affairs Specialist