Obama proposes $7.6 billion increase in vets’ LTC benefits

Announced in a release, the proposed 2014 budget will increase long-term care benefits to veterans by 10 percent, or $7.6 billion. Other highlights in the healthcare area include $6.9 billion for mental health services; $246 million for traumatic brain injuries; $601 million for spinal cord injuries; $4.1 billion to provide healthcare for veterans of Iraq and Afghanistan; and $2.5 billion for prosthetics.

To expand and ensure access to healthcare programs and services, $460 million is earmarked for home telehealth funding, $799 million for the activation of new and enhanced healthcare facilities and $422 million for woman-specific medical care. Secretary of Veterans Affairs Eric Shinseki, said, “This budget will have a positive impact on the lives of veterans, their families and survivors for generations to come.”

Other budget considerations address unemployed veterans, housing, education, information technology and administration of the VA-run national cemeteries.

Sandra Hoban

Sandra Hoban was on I Advance Senior Care / Long-Term Living’s editorial staff for 17 years. She is one of the country’s longest-serving senior care journalists. Before joining Long-Term Living, she was a member of the promotions department at Advanstar Communications. In addition to her editorial experience, Sandi has served past roles in print and broadcast advertising as a traffic and talent coordinator.