Program Keeps Long-Term Care Veterans in Homes
A new program now available at VA Pittsburgh Healthcare System gives Veterans who need long-term care a choice between going to a nursing home or staying in a residential setting.
The Medical Foster Home (MFH) Program allows Veterans to receive medical care while in the comfort of a home rather than an institution.
The VA program comes to Pittsburgh at a time when the population of aging Veterans is expected to double nationally in the next 20 years. MFHs are one way VA is working to expand Veterans’ options.
VA oversees 800 MFHs across the country. The homes are run by experienced caregivers available to the Veteran 24/7, with backup caregivers on call as needed. VA Home Based Primary Care handles Veterans’ medical needs, while the homes’ caregivers assist with meals, shopping, socialization and other activities of daily living.
In fiscal year 2021, 94 percent of surveyed Veterans in MFHs either agreed or strongly agreed that they are overall pleased with the program and wish to remain in it. A 2019 study showed other benefits, as well: participants saved $71 per day over costly institutions and had relatively higher survival rates than their peers in nursing homes.
VA Pittsburgh is seeking caregivers who are interested in running an MFH in the greater Pittsburgh area. Caregivers will be required to provide a comfortable room, nutritious meals, laundry, transportation and 24-hour care and support. Applicants must be 21 or older, complete an application and participate in onboarding. VA Pittsburgh will match approved caregivers with Veterans.
For more information on the program, call 412-822-3590.