VA Health Care: Information on Medical Foster Homes for Veterans

As the veteran population ages, the demand for in-home long-term care is growing rapidly, and VA’s Medical Foster Home Program is one way the agency is responding. In these homes, caregivers provide 24/7 support to veterans who need nursing-level care but prefer a residential setting over institutional care. While the program has expanded to 150 VA medical centers and serves over 700 veterans, challenges remain—from caregiver recruitment and state licensing barriers to delays in implementing new payment authorities under the Cleland-Dole Act. VA expects participation to rise once it begins covering eligible veterans’ room, board, and supervision costs.