San Diego Veterans Independence Services at any Age (SD-VISA)

About the Program

Category: Human Services (Best in Category)

Year: 2016

San Diego Veterans Independence Services at any Age (SD-VISA) gives Veterans greater choice in the services they receive in their home allowing them to live safely and independently while reducing health care costs. The program serves Veterans of any age who are enrolled in the Veterans Administration San Diego Healthcare System (VASDHS) and are at risk of nursing home placement. Veterans in SD-VISA suffer from multiple chronic diseases and have a level of care that exceeds assistance available through the VA’s Homemaker/Home Health Aide Program. In conjunction with VASDHS, an options counselor assists each Veteran to manage a flexible budget that allows Veterans the choice and ability to self-direct their care. They are eligible for a mix of services that best meet their personal care needs. Veterans can hire their own personal care aides and purchase items or services in order to live independently in the community. The program is a purchased service in which local Veterans Affairs Medical Centers (VAMCs) enter into provider arrangements with ADRC’s and/or AAA’s. This is the first program in California to become operational.