Caregiver support · federal

Program of Comprehensive Assistance for Family Caregivers (PCAFC)

U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs

The Program of Comprehensive Assistance for Family Caregivers (PCAFC) supports the family caregivers of veterans with a service-connected disability. Approved caregivers may receive a monthly financial stipend, access to health insurance, mental health counseling, caregiver training, and respite care. VA also runs a separate, lighter-touch Program of General Caregiver Support Services with free resources, education, and support for any veteran's caregiver, plus a respite-care benefit.

Who qualifies

Family caregivers of veterans with a service-connected disability who meet PCAFC criteria. See the PCAFC eligibility page on va.gov for the specific service-connection threshold and caregiver definitions.

What it covers

Monthly stipend for the primary family caregiver, access to health insurance (CHAMPVA for those without coverage), mental health counseling, caregiver training, and respite care to give the caregiver a break.

Cost

No cost to participate; eligible caregivers receive a stipend rather than paying.

How to apply

Apply through VA Caregiver Support; see the PCAFC page on va.gov for the current application form and process. Caregiver Support Coordinators at VA medical centers can assist.

Where to get this in Washington

3 organizations deliver this program. Coverage varies, so check the area each one serves.

VA Puget Sound Health Care System (800) 329-8387
VHA health-care system covering Western Washington with two main campuses: Seattle VA Medical Center (1660 S Columbian Way) and American Lake VA Medical Center in Tacoma (9600 Veterans Dr SW). Hub for VA primary care, geriatrics, mental health, and extended care for the Puget Sound region.
VA Spokane Health Care System (Mann-Grandstaff VA Medical Center)(509) 434-7000
Mann-Grandstaff VA Medical Center, the VAMC anchoring VA Spokane Health Care System, serving veterans in Eastern Washington and North Idaho.
VA Walla Walla Health Care System (Jonathan M. Wainwright Memorial VA Medical Center)(509) 525-5200
Jonathan M. Wainwright Memorial VA Medical Center, the VAMC anchoring VA Walla Walla Health Care System, serving veterans across SE Washington, NE Oregon, and West Idaho.

Visit the website

www.va.gov/family-and-caregiver-benefits/health-and-disability/comprehensive-assistance-for-family-caregivers

Source www.va.gov/family-and-caregiver-benefits/health-and-disability/