WASHINGTON, December 5, 2024 - VA values the contributions of caregivers and Veterans in our community. We’ve recently published a Notice of Proposed Rulemaking in the Federal Register, proposing updates to expand access to the Program of Comprehensive Assistance for Family Caregivers (PCAFC).

Please note that these changes are not yet in effect, and your feedback is important in shaping the final rule.

Key highlights of the proposed changes

Although these changes are not yet in effect, the proposed updates aim to improve the PCAFC and provide more families with the support they need.

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.

How you can get involved

The 60-day public comment period begins tomorrow, offering you the opportunity to share your thoughts and experiences. We encourage Veterans, caregivers and everyone involved in their care to review the proposed changes and provide feedback.

Your input is crucial. 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. Get more information about PCAFC and check out our Frequently Asked Questions document for more information about the proposed rule.

“We are listening closely to Veterans, caregivers, Veterans Service Organizations and other stakeholders as we consider changes to PCAFC, including changes to eligibility. Your feedback is essential in refining these updates and improving the Program of Comprehensive Assistance for Family Caregivers,” said Dr. Colleen Richardson, executive director of the Caregiver Support Program.

About the Caregiver Support Program (CSP)

The 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. Visit CSP’s website or contact your local CSP team to learn more. Discover CSP’s 2023 Highlights in last year’s Annual Report.