HHS Programs for Veterans: A Guide to Available Resources

Last updated 6 days ago. Our resources are updated regularly but please keep in mind that links, programs, policies, and contact information do change.

The U.S. Department of Health and Human Services (HHS) is the federal government’s principal agency dedicated to protecting the health of all Americans and providing essential human services. While the Department of Veterans Affairs (VA) serves as the primary federal entity for veteran-specific benefits and healthcare, HHS and its diverse agencies offer a wide array of programs, resources, and support systems that are highly relevant and beneficial to U.S. veterans and their families.

Veterans may interact with HHS programs for various needs, including accessing affordable community-based healthcare, finding specialized mental health and substance use treatment, navigating resources for independent living, obtaining support during significant life transitions, accessing assistance for family caregivers, and finding information on health conditions that disproportionately affect the veteran community, such as Traumatic Brain Injury (TBI), Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD), and conditions related to environmental exposures during service.

This guide outlines these HHS programs, making information about relevant programs more accessible and understandable for veterans and their families.

Accessing Physical Healthcare Through HHS

While the VA healthcare system is a primary resource for many veterans, HHS provides significant avenues for accessing physical healthcare services within the community through its agency, the Health Resources and Services Administration (HRSA).

HRSA-Funded Community Health Centers

HRSA funds a nationwide network of nearly 1,400 community-based health centers operating at over 15,500 sites. These centers are patient-directed organizations committed to delivering comprehensive, culturally competent, and high-quality primary healthcare services. A key feature of these health centers is their integrated approach, often combining medical, dental, mental health, substance use disorder treatment (including services like buprenorphine provision for opioid use disorder), vision care, and pharmacy services under one roof or through close partnerships.

These community health centers represent a vital part of the healthcare landscape for veterans. In 2023 alone, nearly 405,000 veterans received care at HRSA-funded facilities. This substantial number underscores that these centers serve as a significant point of care for veterans, potentially complementing VA services, filling geographic gaps, or offering an alternative source of primary care. Their presence in areas where economic, geographic, or cultural barriers limit access to affordable healthcare makes them particularly valuable.

Services extend beyond basic primary care to include crucial preventive screenings for conditions like cancer (breast, cervical, colorectal) and HIV, as well as management of chronic illnesses. A major advantage of HRSA-funded health centers is their commitment to accessibility. They serve everyone, regardless of insurance status or ability to pay, utilizing sliding fee scales based on income to ensure affordability.

In 2023, approximately 90% of patients served had incomes at or below 200% of the federal poverty level, highlighting their role as a safety net provider. Studies indicate that health center patients generally experience better health outcomes at lower costs compared to other settings, with fewer emergency room visits and hospital stays.

Finding a Health Center: Veterans and their families can locate nearby HRSA-funded health centers using the HRSA Find a Health Center tool. The tool allows searching by address, city, state, or ZIP code. For assistance, individuals can also call 877-464-4772 (8:00 a.m. to 8:00 p.m. ET, weekdays) or TTY: 877-897-9910.

HRSA Rural Veterans Health Access Program (RVHAP)

Recognizing the unique challenges faced by veterans in rural areas, HRSA administers the Rural Veterans Health Access Program (RVHAP). This program specifically aims to improve healthcare access and enhance the coordination of care for veterans residing in rural communities.

RVHAP provides funding directly to states, enabling them to collaborate with healthcare providers, including Critical Access Hospitals (CAHs) and other rural health organizations. The program supports strategies designed to build the capacity of these local providers to offer services tailored to veterans’ needs. A key component is facilitating connections between community providers and the VA system, promoting better communication and coordination for veterans who may receive care from both sources.

The existence of RVHAP signals HHS’s awareness of geographic disparities in healthcare access and its commitment to funding targeted solutions that bridge community-based care and the VA system, specifically for the often-underserved rural veteran population.

It is important to note that RVHAP funding is awarded to eligible states (specifically, those participating in the Medicare Rural Hospital Flexibility Program with certified CAHs), not directly to individual veterans. However, the intended outcome for veterans living in these rural areas is improved local access to relevant healthcare services and a more seamless care experience between their community doctors and the VA. Veterans in rural areas interested in learning about local initiatives potentially supported by this program can inquire with their healthcare providers or state veterans’ affairs offices. Further details on the program funding can be found at the HRSA grants website.

Mental Health and Substance Use Support (SAMHSA & Partners)

HHS plays a critical role in addressing the behavioral health needs of veterans through its Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration (SAMHSA) and partnerships with other agencies.

SAMHSA’s Role

SAMHSA is the lead HHS agency focused on advancing the behavioral health of the nation. Its mission encompasses promoting mental health, preventing substance misuse, and providing treatments and supports to foster recovery, ensuring equitable access and better outcomes.

This mission is particularly relevant for veterans, as data indicates significant behavioral health challenges within this population. In 2020, for instance, an estimated 5.2 million veterans experienced a behavioral health condition. Alarmingly, more than half of veterans with a diagnosed mental illness did not receive treatment in the preceding year, highlighting critical gaps in care access and engagement. Life transitions, such as separating from military service, can be particularly stressful and may contribute to the emergence of behavioral health concerns if adequate support is not available.

Finding Treatment and Support

SAMHSA offers and connects veterans to several key resources for finding behavioral health services:

SAMHSA National Helpline: This service provides 24/7, free, confidential information and treatment referrals for individuals and families facing mental health and/or substance use disorders. Contact the helpline at 1-800-662-HELP (4357) or TTY: 1-800-487-4889. Support is available in English and Spanish. Learn more at the SAMHSA website.

FindTreatment.gov: This online tool, https://findtreatment.gov/, allows users to search for various behavioral health treatment facilities, including mental health and substance use treatment centers. SAMHSA has even developed a specific video tutorial to guide veterans in using this locator effectively.

Opioid Treatment Program Directory & Buprenorphine Practitioner Locator: For veterans seeking treatment specifically for opioid use disorder, SAMHSA maintains these specialized locators to find nearby programs and qualified practitioners. Access these directories through the SAMHSA website.

Vet Centers (VA Resource): While operated by the VA, Vet Centers are frequently highlighted alongside HHS resources. They offer community-based counseling (individual, couples, family) at no cost, helping veterans address challenges related to military service in a confidential setting. They also connect veterans with other community resources. Vet Centers can be reached 24/7 at 1-877-927-8387.

Crisis Support

Immediate support is available for veterans experiencing a mental health crisis:

988 Suicide & Crisis Lifeline (Veterans Press 1): This is the primary access point for immediate crisis support. By dialing 988 and then pressing 1, veterans, service members, and their families are connected directly to caring, qualified responders at the Veterans Crisis Line. This vital service is a partnership between SAMHSA and the VA. The service is available 24/7, is free and confidential, and accessible regardless of VA enrollment status.

Veterans Crisis Line (Other Access Methods): Besides dialing 988 and pressing 1, support can be accessed by:

• Texting 838255
• Using the Online Chat feature at https://www.veteranscrisisline.net/
• TTY users: Call 711 then 988 or 1-800-799-4889
• Specific numbers are also available for those calling from overseas

SAMHSA Disaster Distress Helpline: This helpline provides crisis counseling and support for individuals experiencing emotional distress related to natural or human-caused disasters. Access information via the SAMHSA website.

The following table provides a quick reference for key helplines:

Specific SAMHSA Programs & Initiatives

Beyond helplines and locators, SAMHSA funds and supports several programs and initiatives relevant to veterans:

Projects for Assistance in Transition from Homelessness (PATH): This formula grant program provides funds to states and territories, which then distribute them to local organizations (PATH providers). These providers offer outreach, mental health and substance use disorder treatment, case management, assistance accessing housing, and other supportive services to individuals with serious mental illness (SMI) or co-occurring disorders who are experiencing or at risk of homelessness. Veterans meeting these criteria can access services through local PATH providers, often identified via Local Mental Health Authorities (LMHAs), Local Behavioral Health Authorities (LBHAs), or by calling 2-1-1.

Treatment for Individuals Experiencing Homelessness (TIEH): TIEH is a discretionary grant program focused on expanding access to treatment (mental health and substance use disorders), peer support, recovery services, and connections to permanent housing specifically for individuals experiencing homelessness who also have SMI, Serious Emotional Disturbance (SED), or co-occurring disorders. Access is through organizations that have received TIEH grant funding.

Grants for the Benefit of Homeless Individuals–Services in Supportive Housing (GBHI–SSH): This SAMHSA grant program funds treatment and recovery support services for individuals experiencing homelessness who have substance use disorders or co-occurring mental and substance use disorders, delivered within supportive housing environments. Access is through grantee organizations.

SSI/SSDI Outreach, Access, and Recovery (SOAR): SOAR is a technical assistance program, not a direct service provider to individuals. It trains case managers in states and communities to help eligible adults and children experiencing or at risk of homelessness with SMI, medical impairments, or co-occurring SUDs apply for Social Security disability benefits (SSI/SSDI). By potentially securing a stable income source, SOAR indirectly supports housing stability and recovery for veterans who qualify. Access is through SOAR-trained case managers within participating local agencies.

SAMHSA Service Members, Veterans, and their Families Technical Assistance (SMVF TA) Center: This center plays a crucial role in improving behavioral health systems for SMVF. It provides technical assistance activities like policy and implementation academies, Crisis Intercept Mapping for suicide prevention, virtual TA, and site visits. It develops resources and publications and fosters interagency collaboration, including supporting the Governor’s and Mayor’s Challenges to Prevent Suicide Among SMVF and the VA/SAMHSA Suicide Mortality Review Process. Resources can be accessed via the center’s website: https://www.samhsa.gov/smvf-ta-center. Specific inquiries can be directed to [email protected] or the SAMHSA Military and Veteran Affairs Liaison, Stacey Owens, at [email protected].

The variety of SAMHSA’s initiatives—ranging from immediate crisis intervention (988 Press 1) and treatment locators to grant programs targeting specific needs like homelessness (PATH, TIEH, GBHI) and technical assistance aimed at system improvement (SOAR, SMVF TA Center)—demonstrates a comprehensive strategy. This multi-faceted approach, often involving partnerships with the VA and state/local entities, acknowledges that addressing the complex behavioral health needs of veterans requires diverse tools and collaborations, moving beyond single solutions to leverage multiple strategies concurrently.

Furthermore, the strong emphasis within several SAMHSA programs (PATH, TIEH, GBHI, SOAR) on serving individuals experiencing both homelessness and behavioral health conditions highlights the recognized link between these issues. This focus suggests a strategic approach where addressing mental health and substance use is seen as integral to achieving housing stability, a particularly relevant connection for veterans who may face increased risks in both areas.

State-Level HHS Programs (Example: Texas)

State health and human services agencies often partner with federal HHS agencies and other state entities to deliver veteran-specific programs. For example, the Texas Health and Human Services Commission (HHSC) partners with the Texas Veterans Commission (TVC) to administer the Mental Health Program for Veterans. This program utilizes funding appropriated by the state legislature to contract with LMHAs and LBHAs across Texas to provide peer-to-peer counseling services delivered by Peer Service Coordinators. These services aim to engage veterans and family members who have experienced military trauma or are isolated from traditional support systems.

The program also involves Texas A&M University Health Science Center (TAMUHSC) for online resources (TexVet) and TVC for training and coordination, particularly for justice-involved veterans. Veterans in Texas can connect with their local Peer Service Coordinator by finding their local LMHA/LBHA or by calling 2-1-1. This Texas program illustrates how HHS principles and funding streams can be operationalized at the state level through local partnerships to reach veterans in their communities. Other states may operate similar programs funded or supported by HHS.

Housing Assistance and Independent Living Support

HHS agencies, particularly the Administration for Community Living (ACL) and SAMHSA, contribute significantly to housing stability and independent living for veterans, often complementing programs run by the VA and the Department of Housing and Urban Development (HUD).

Veteran-Directed Care (VDC) Program (ACL/VA Partnership)

A key initiative supporting independent living is the Veteran-Directed Care (VDC) program, a partnership established in 2008 between HHS’s Administration for Community Living (ACL) and the Veterans Health Administration (VHA). Previously known as Veteran-Directed Home and Community Based Services (VD-HCBS), the VDC program is designed for veterans of all ages who are at risk of needing nursing home care.

The core principle of VDC is self-direction. It empowers eligible veterans to manage a flexible budget, decide on the specific mix of goods and services that best meet their long-term services and supports (LTSS) needs, and hire and supervise their own care workers. This participant-directed model aims to foster independence and allow veterans to remain in their homes and communities rather than entering institutional care.

Support is provided through Aging and Disability Network Agencies (ADNAs), which offer options counseling, facilitated assessment and care planning, arrangement of fiscal management services, and ongoing counseling for veterans and their families.

Eligibility is generally for veterans at risk of nursing home placement, but specific criteria are determined by the local VA Medical Center (VAMC). Access to the program begins by contacting the local VAMC to inquire about availability and eligibility. The program operates through partnerships between specific VAMCs and approved local ADNAs; lists of participating sites are available, though some VAMCs may not yet refer veterans to the program. General information is available at https://acl.gov/programs/veteran-directed-home-and-community-based-services/veteran-directed-home-community-based.

Support for Homeless Veterans

While VA and HUD operate major housing programs like HUD-VASH and Supportive Services for Veteran Families (SSVF), HHS agencies provide critical supportive services that address factors contributing to homelessness among veterans.

SAMHSA Grants: As detailed previously, SAMHSA programs like PATH, TIEH, and GBHI-SSH specifically target individuals experiencing homelessness often alongside serious mental illness or substance use disorders, providing treatment and recovery supports linked to housing assistance. This integration is vital, as untreated behavioral health conditions are significant contributors to homelessness.

ACF Runaway and Homeless Youth Programs: The Administration for Children and Families (ACF) funds programs like the Basic Center Program (emergency shelter for under 18s), Transitional Living Program (longer-term housing for 16-22 year olds), and Street Outreach Program. These could potentially serve younger veterans or the dependent children of veterans facing homelessness. Access points are available through the ACF website.

Community Services Block Grant (CSBG): ACF also administers CSBG, which provides flexible funding to local community action agencies. These agencies offer a wide range of anti-poverty services, potentially including housing assistance, emergency services, and connections to other resources for low-income individuals, including veterans. Access is through local community action agencies.

National Call Center for Homeless Veterans (VA Resource): Frequently listed alongside HHS resources is the VA’s dedicated hotline: 1-877-4AID-VET (1-877-424-3838). This 24/7 service connects veterans experiencing or at risk of homelessness with trained counselors who offer information about VA programs, healthcare, and other local services.

ACF/OCSE Child Support & Homeless Veterans: Recognizing that unresolved child support issues can be a significant barrier to stable housing and employment, ACF’s Office of Child Support Services (OCSE) collaborates with the VA and the American Bar Association. This partnership aims to assist homeless veterans in addressing child support challenges. OCSE provides resources like its “Toolkit: Child Support Collaborations to Engage and Assist Veterans” to help states and tribes work effectively with this population.

Independent Living & Disability Support (ACL)

HHS’s Administration for Community Living (ACL) focuses on enabling older adults and people with disabilities, including veterans, to live independently and participate fully in their communities. It is important to note reports from early 2025 suggested a potential major restructuring or elimination of ACL within HHS. While the programs are described here based on available information, their future status or administrative location may be subject to change.

Centers for Independent Living (CILs): Authorized under the Rehabilitation Act, CILs are community-based, non-profit organizations designed and operated by individuals with disabilities. They promote a philosophy of consumer control, peer support, self-help, self-determination, and equal access. CILs provide an array of services, such as advocacy, skills training, information and referral, and peer counseling, to help people with disabilities live independently in the community. Veterans with disabilities can access services through their local CILs. ACL provides funding and oversight for the CIL network. General information can be found at https://acl.gov/programs/aging-and-disability-networks/centers-independent-living.

Disability Information and Access Line (DIAL): Launched initially to help with COVID-19 vaccine access, DIAL now serves as a broader resource line. It helps people with disabilities connect with information about local community resources that support independent living, including transportation, housing support, disability rights information, and more. Contact DIAL at 888-677-1199 (Monday-Friday, 9 a.m. to 8 p.m. ET) or email [email protected].

Aging and Disability Resource Centers (ADRCs): Often partnering with CILs and Area Agencies on Aging (AAAs), ADRCs serve as single points of entry or “no wrong door” systems for accessing long-term services and supports for older adults and people with disabilities. They provide information, counseling, and access to a wide range of community-based resources, including housing options, transportation, in-home care, benefits counseling, and caregiver support. Veterans can find their local ADRC through state websites or the Eldercare Locator.

While direct housing programs are often managed by VA or HUD, the HHS programs described above play a crucial complementary role. Initiatives like ACL’s VDC program and CILs emphasize self-direction and consumer control, empowering veterans to make choices about their own care and living situations. SAMHSA’s programs directly link behavioral health treatment—a critical need for many veterans facing housing instability—with housing supports. ACF programs address related challenges like youth homelessness and child support barriers.

This focus on wrap-around supportive services and individual empowerment is essential for helping veterans not only find housing but also maintain it long-term and achieve greater independence. However, the potential changes surrounding ACL, as reported externally, raise concerns about the future stability and coordination of these vital community living supports for veterans with disabilities and older veterans who rely on them.

Addressing Specific Health Concerns

HHS agencies are involved in research, prevention, and providing resources related to specific health conditions prevalent among veterans, often working in collaboration with the VA and Department of Defense (DoD).

Traumatic Brain Injury (TBI)

TBI is recognized as a significant health issue for military personnel and veterans, affecting hundreds of thousands since 2000. It can result from various incidents, both combat-related (e.g., blasts) and non-combat related (e.g., vehicle accidents, falls). TBIs range from mild (concussions) to severe, and even mild cases can lead to long-term cognitive, physical, and emotional symptoms, including headaches, memory problems, irritability, sleep disorders, and depression. Importantly, TBI often co-occurs with conditions like PTSD and depression, and studies show a significantly increased risk of suicide among veterans with a history of TBI.

CDC Role: The CDC plays a key role in TBI surveillance, research, and prevention. It tracks TBI rates and outcomes, including among military populations, to inform public health strategies. CDC develops evidence-based clinical practice guidelines for healthcare providers on the management of mild TBI and concussion in both adults and children, aiming to standardize and improve care quality across all settings (https://www.cdc.gov/traumatic-brain-injury/). The agency also focuses on TBI health equity, researching disparities and developing resources to address them. CDC collaborates with partners like the DoD/VA Defense and Veterans Brain Injury Center (DVBIC) on research and programs supporting service members and veterans with TBI. CDC’s TBI Health Equity information is at https://www.cdc.gov/traumatic-brain-injury/health-equity/index.html.

NIH/NIEHS Role: The National Institutes of Health (https://www.nih.gov/) is heavily involved in TBI research, often partnering with VA and DoD. HHS, through NIH, participated in the development of the National Research Action Plan (NRAP), a coordinated effort launched in 2012 to accelerate research on TBI, PTSD, and related conditions like suicide. NIH also funds and participates in major studies, such as the Alzheimer’s Disease Neuroimaging Initiative (ADNI) DoD project, which investigates the long-term effects of TBI and PTSD on the risk of developing Alzheimer’s disease and related dementias in veterans. The National Institute of Environmental Health Sciences (NIEHS), part of NIH, also engages in research relevant to veterans’ health, potentially exploring links between environmental factors and neurological outcomes like TBI.

Access: Veterans concerned about TBI should seek evaluation from their healthcare provider, whether through the VA or community resources like HRSA health centers. CDC guidelines help inform the care they receive. Research conducted by NIH, NIEHS, and partners contributes to improving diagnosis, treatment, and understanding of long-term outcomes. Given the strong link between TBI and suicide risk, immediate access to crisis support via the Veterans Crisis Line (Dial 988 then Press 1) is crucial.

Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD)

PTSD is another significant mental health challenge faced by many veterans, often stemming from exposure to traumatic events during military service. Like TBI, PTSD is linked with increased risks for other health problems, including cognitive difficulties, depression, substance use disorders, suicide attempts, and potentially dementia later in life. The overlap and interaction between TBI and PTSD are areas of active research.

SAMHSA Role: SAMHSA resources are central to accessing PTSD support within the broader HHS framework. The SAMHSA National Helpline (1-800-662-HELP), FindTreatment.gov, and the Veterans Crisis Line (988 Press 1) are key gateways for information, treatment referral, and immediate crisis support related to PTSD and co-occurring conditions.

NIH Role: NIH research, including efforts under the NRAP and projects like ADNI-DOD, investigates the biological mechanisms, long-term consequences, and treatment approaches for PTSD, often examining its relationship with TBI and other neurological conditions.

CDC Role: CDC’s work in TBI research often identifies PTSD as a common co-occurring condition. Additionally, CDC’s focus on suicide prevention research and strategies is highly relevant, given the increased suicide risk associated with PTSD.

Access: Veterans seeking help for PTSD can utilize SAMHSA’s helplines and treatment locators, VA mental health services, Vet Centers, or community providers. The Veterans Crisis Line (Dial 988 then Press 1) remains a critical resource for immediate support. Ongoing research by NIH and other agencies aims to improve future diagnostic tools and therapies.

The consistent co-occurrence and interaction between TBI, PTSD, and suicide risk found in research underscore the need for integrated healthcare approaches. Veterans presenting with symptoms related to one condition should ideally be screened for the others. Support systems, whether through HHS, VA, or community partners, must be equipped to address these interconnected challenges comprehensively, rather than treating them as isolated issues.

Suicide Prevention

Veteran suicide remains a critical public health issue, with veterans experiencing significantly higher rates of suicide compared to the general population. In 2021, an average of 17.5 veterans died by suicide each day. Factors like TBI, PTSD, difficult life transitions, and challenges accessing care contribute to this increased risk.

HHS Roles (SAMHSA/CDC): The most prominent HHS-supported resource for immediate help is the 988 Suicide & Crisis Lifeline, accessed by dialing 988 then Pressing 1 to reach the Veterans Crisis Line. This SAMHSA/VA partnership provides 24/7 confidential support. SAMHSA’s SMVF TA Center also works on systemic suicide prevention strategies through initiatives like Crisis Intercept Mapping and supporting the VA/SAMHSA Suicide Mortality Review Process. The CDC contributes through research on suicide risk factors, surveillance of suicide deaths, and potentially developing prevention resources.

Access: Immediate, confidential help is available 24/7 by dialing 988 then Pressing 1, texting 838255, or chatting online at https://www.veteranscrisisline.net/.

Environmental Exposures (Agent Orange, Burn Pits, etc.)

Many veterans have concerns about potential health problems resulting from exposure to environmental hazards during their military service. These exposures can include herbicides like Agent Orange used during the Vietnam War; smoke from large open-air burn pits used to dispose of waste in Iraq, Afghanistan, and other locations; contaminated water sources (e.g., Camp Lejeune); ionizing radiation; embedded fragments; and various occupational hazards. These exposures are linked to a range of health conditions, including various cancers, respiratory illnesses, neurological problems, and other chronic diseases, which may manifest years after service.

The Sergeant First Class Heath Robinson Honoring Our Promise to Address Comprehensive Toxics (PACT) Act of 2022 is a landmark law that significantly expanded VA health care eligibility and established presumptive service connection for many conditions related to toxic exposures, streamlining the process for veterans to receive benefits and care.

NIEHS/NIH Role: Within HHS, the National Institute of Environmental Health Sciences (NIEHS) (https://www.niehs.nih.gov/) plays a significant role in researching the health effects of these military environmental exposures. NIEHS collaborates with the VA and DoD to conduct studies aimed at understanding how these exposures impact health, identifying biomarkers, and elucidating disease mechanisms. This research provides the scientific foundation that informs clinical practice and policy decisions, including those related to the PACT Act.

CDC/ATSDR Role: The CDC and its sister agency, the Agency for Toxic Substances and Disease Registry (ATSDR) (https://www.atsdr.cdc.gov/), are involved in public health assessments of hazardous waste sites and understanding the health effects of exposure to toxic substances generally. While specific veteran programs were not detailed in the reviewed materials, their expertise in environmental health and toxicology is relevant to understanding military exposures.

HHS Role (General): Beyond research, HHS contributes through its healthcare delivery systems. Veterans seeking care for potential exposure-related conditions may utilize HRSA-funded community health centers. HHS’s Office of Disease Prevention and Health Promotion (ODPHP) also recognizes the importance of exposure-informed care for veterans.

While the PACT Act places the primary responsibility for delivering benefits and specialized healthcare for toxic exposures on the VA, HHS agencies provide the crucial underlying scientific research and data. NIEHS, NIH, and potentially CDC/ATSDR conduct studies that help establish links between exposures and health outcomes, identify populations at risk, and explore biological mechanisms. This foundational science is essential for validating veterans’ concerns, guiding VA policy on presumptive conditions, and developing future prevention and treatment strategies.

Access: Veterans concerned about toxic exposures should enroll in VA healthcare and undergo the toxic exposure screening offered by VA. They can file claims for conditions potentially related to their service exposures through the VA. VA maintains health registries (e.g., Agent Orange Registry, Airborne Hazards and Open Burn Pit Registry) that veterans can join to document exposure and receive information. Information from VA is available at https://www.publichealth.va.gov/exposures/. Research findings from HHS agencies like NIEHS contribute to the evidence base used by VA and healthcare providers.

Support for Veterans’ Families and Caregivers

HHS, alongside the VA, recognizes the immense contribution and unique challenges faced by family members and friends who care for veterans with illnesses or disabilities. Various programs offer resources, training, financial assistance, and respite.

Overview

Family caregivers are essential partners in veteran care, providing a broad range of assistance that supports health, quality of life, and independence. Nationally, millions of individuals act as family caregivers. While rewarding, caregiving can impose significant physical, emotional, and financial burdens. Recognizing these challenges, federal agencies offer support programs. The 2022 National Strategy to Support Family Caregivers, developed with input from HHS, VA, and other stakeholders, outlines a coordinated federal approach to improve caregiver support across multiple domains.

VA Programs (Referenced by HHS/Partners)

While administered by the VA, these programs are frequently highlighted by HHS and partner organizations as key resources for veterans’ caregivers:

VA Caregiver Support Program (CSP): This is the umbrella program within VA offering clinical services and support to caregivers of eligible veterans enrolled in VA healthcare. It comprises two main components:

Program of Comprehensive Assistance for Family Caregivers (PCAFC): This program provides enhanced support for eligible family caregivers of veterans who incurred or aggravated a serious injury in the line of duty and meet specific eligibility criteria.

• Services: Key benefits for designated Primary (and sometimes Secondary) Family Caregivers include a monthly financial stipend, access to health insurance through CHAMPVA if uninsured, mental health counseling, comprehensive caregiver training, coverage for veteran travel/lodging for VA care, and respite care (temporary relief from caregiving duties). Recently, legal and financial planning services were added for Primary Family Caregivers.
• Eligibility: Eligibility involves requirements for both the veteran (e.g., enrolled in VA health care, specific service-connected disability rating threshold – currently 70% or higher, need for continuous personal care services for at least 6 months due to specific conditions) and the caregiver (e.g., at least 18 years old, specific relationship or lives full-time with the veteran). These criteria can be complex and have been subject to regulatory changes.
• Application: Veterans and caregivers must apply together using VA Form 10-10CG, which can be submitted online at VA.gov, by mail, or in person at a local VA medical center.

Program of General Caregiver Support Services (PGCSS): This program offers a broader range of support services to caregivers of veterans from any service era who are enrolled in VA health care, provided the veteran consents to the caregiver’s involvement. It serves many caregivers who may not meet the stricter eligibility criteria for PCAFC.

• Services: PGCSS includes skills training (online and in-person), coaching, support groups, peer support mentoring, telephone support, connection to respite care options, and referrals to VA and community resources.
• Access: Caregivers can access PGCSS by contacting their local VA Caregiver Support Team or the national Caregiver Support Line.

VA Caregiver Support Line: This toll-free line, 1-855-260-3274 (TTY: 711), serves as a primary resource for caregivers seeking information about PCAFC, PGCSS, eligibility, application assistance, and connection to local VA Caregiver Support Program Teams/Coordinators. It operates Monday through Friday, 8:00 a.m. to 8:00 p.m. ET.

Other VA Resources: VA also offers related support like Coaching Into Care (helps families encourage veterans to seek care), CHAMPVA health coverage for eligible dependents/survivors, Fisher Houses (lodging for families near VA medical centers), and the Women Veterans Call Center (1-855-829-6636).

HHS Programs (ACL and State)

HHS, primarily through ACL, funds programs supporting family caregivers, particularly those caring for older adults or individuals with disabilities.

National Family Caregiver Support Program (NFCSP): Administered by ACL, NFCSP provides grants to states and territories based on their population aged 70 and over. States use these funds to support family and informal caregivers, primarily those caring for individuals aged 60 or older, or individuals of any age with Alzheimer’s disease or related disorders. It also supports grandparents or relative caregivers (age 55+) caring for children.

• Services: Funded services typically include information about available resources, assistance accessing services, individual counseling, support groups, caregiver training, respite care, and limited supplemental services (e.g., assistive technology, home modifications).
• Access: Veterans’ caregivers can access these services if the person they care for meets the age or condition criteria. Services are delivered through the Aging Network, primarily local Area Agencies on Aging (AAAs) and Aging and Disability Resource Centers (ADRCs). These can be found using the Eldercare Locator.

Eldercare Locator: This public service of ACL’s Administration on Aging connects callers and website visitors to local resources for older adults and their caregivers nationwide. It provides contact information for AAAs, ADRCs, and other community-based organizations. Contact: 1-800-677-1116 (Monday-Friday, 9 a.m. to 8 p.m. ET) or visit https://eldercare.acl.gov/.

State HHS Resources: State Health and Human Services departments, often through their Units on Aging or Disability Services, administer federal funds like NFCSP and may offer additional state-funded caregiver supports. Examples include Texas, where AAAs and ADRCs provide caregiver information, assistance, counseling, training, and respite referrals, and Colorado, where AAAs deliver NFCSP services. California’s Department of Social Services also lists housing-related programs that may assist families involved with child welfare or adult protective services.

Lifespan Respite Care Program: Also administered by ACL, this program provides grants to states to develop coordinated systems of accessible, community-based respite care services for family caregivers of individuals of all ages with special needs. Information on state respite coalitions and services can often be found through the ARCH National Respite Network and Resource Center.

Other Relevant Resources

Several other resources, often highlighted by both HHS and VA, support military and veteran caregivers:

Military OneSource: A DoD-funded program offering a wide range of support services (counseling, financial counseling, health coaching, help navigating services) for active duty, Guard, Reserve members, recently separated veterans, and their families and caregivers. Contact: 800-342-9647 or https://www.militaryonesource.mil/.

National Resource Directory (NRD): A collaborative website (https://nrd.gov/) involving DoD, VA, HHS, and DOL, providing links to vetted resources for service members, veterans, families, and caregivers across various domains like benefits, employment, education, health, and housing.

Non-Profit Organizations: National organizations like the Caregiver Action Network (CAN), Family Caregiver Alliance (FCA), and the National Alliance for Caregiving (NAC) offer valuable education, peer support, advocacy, and resources for family caregivers, including those caring for veterans.

The landscape of caregiver support often involves navigating resources from multiple agencies. VA programs like PCAFC and PGCSS are veteran-specific, but HHS programs like NFCSP and resources accessed through the Eldercare Locator offer community-based support that may also be relevant, particularly for caregivers of older veterans or those meeting specific age/disability criteria. The 2022 National Strategy explicitly recognizes this need for cross-agency collaboration.

Furthermore, the inclusion of financial supports, such as the PCAFC stipend, potential use of VDC funds, and pathways through Medicaid waivers, reflects a growing acknowledgment of the economic impact of caregiving and the need to provide direct financial relief as part of a comprehensive support strategy.

The PACT Act and HHS Programs

The Sergeant First Class Heath Robinson Honoring Our Promise to Address Comprehensive Toxics (PACT) Act, signed into law in August 2022, represents one of the most significant expansions of VA health care and benefits in decades and delivers support to toxic-exposed veterans who previously struggled to access care and benefits.

The PACT Act primarily affects VA benefits and healthcare, but its implementation has implications for HHS programs as well, particularly those that serve veterans with conditions related to toxic exposures. The Act significantly expanded eligibility for healthcare and created presumptive connections between certain conditions and toxic exposures, making it easier for veterans to access care and benefits.

The PACT Act expands eligibility for VA health care for veterans who served in Vietnam, the Gulf War, and post-9/11 combat zones, and adds 23 new presumptive conditions related to toxic exposures. This expansion means that veterans previously denied benefits should reapply, as many are now eligible.

As of March 2024, all veterans who were exposed to toxins and other hazards while serving are eligible to enroll directly in VA health care without first applying for VA benefits, provided they served after September 11, 2001, and received certain service medals.

For HHS programs, this expansion of VA eligibility may affect how veterans interact with community health centers and other HHS-supported healthcare options. Veterans newly eligible for VA care may transition from community providers to VA services, though many may continue to use both systems. HRSA-funded community health centers remain important for veterans, particularly in rural areas or for those who prefer community-based care.

The PACT Act’s focus on environmental exposures aligns with research activities at HHS agencies like NIEHS and CDC/ATSDR. Their work on the health effects of toxic exposures provides critical scientific evidence that supports the presumptive conditions established in the Act.

Veterans concerned about toxic exposures should first connect with VA resources, as the VA has completed over 458,000 PACT Act-related claims and delivered more than $1.85 billion in benefits to veterans and their survivors in the first year of implementation.

HHS Agency Contacts and Coordination

Navigating HHS programs can sometimes require knowing the right point of contact within a specific agency. While HHS does not appear to have a single, centralized “Office of Veterans Affairs” analogous to dedicated offices in other departments, specific liaisons and networks exist for certain functions:

HHS Veteran Employment Contact: For inquiries potentially related to veteran hiring within HHS or general veteran matters, a contact listed is Paris Bannourah at [email protected].

SAMHSA Military and Veteran Affairs Liaison: For issues related to behavioral health services for Service Members, Veterans, and their Families (SMVF) and interagency coordination in this area, the contact is Stacey Owens at [email protected].

ACF/OCSE Veterans & Military Liaison Network (VMLN): This network focuses specifically on improving child support services for military members, veterans, and their families. Professionals interested in the network or needing assistance with related cases can contact James Murray at [email protected].

Agency Liaisons (General): HHS agencies maintain various liaison roles for specific functions. For example, liaisons exist within ACF, AHRQ, CDC/ATSDR, CMS, FDA, and HRSA for coordinating with the U.S. Public Health Service Commissioned Corps. While not veteran-specific, these illustrate internal agency points of contact.

VA/DoD Coordination Office (VA Side – for context): Although part of the VA, this office ([email protected]) demonstrates the type of formal structure used for interdepartmental collaboration between VA and DoD on health matters, including coordinating the Health Executive Committee (HEC) and liaising with programs like DoD’s Yellow Ribbon Reintegration Program (YRRP). HHS agencies likely interact with such coordinating bodies when necessary.

The available information suggests that HHS addresses veteran-related issues primarily through the specialized programs and expertise of its constituent agencies (SAMHSA for behavioral health, HRSA for community health access, ACL for aging/disability/independent living, NIH/NIEHS/CDC for research, ACF for family/youth/social services) rather than through a single, overarching veterans’ office. This means veterans and those assisting them may need to identify the specific HHS agency most relevant to their particular need to find the most direct support or information. State and local government offices, such as County Veteran Service Offices, may also serve as valuable navigators for accessing both federal (including HHS) and state benefits and services.

Our articles make government information more accessible. Please consult a qualified professional for financial, legal, or health advice specific to your circumstances.