Nursing Home Care

(1) When eligible applicants are recommended for care in a nursing home by their attending physicians, or the hospitals, the veterans’ agent should process an application (Form VS-1) and submit it to DVS. The veterans’ agent must also verify that the nursing home is properly licensed and verify the per diem rate as set by the DHCFP. The veterans’ agent shall assist eligible patients in filing for all possible available resources pursuant to 108 CMR 6.01(3). Particular attention must be paid to those patients who are in receipt of VA pensions. The Department’s offices in Boston and in Providence should be utilized to file for additional benefits. (2) The total monthly income of the patient, with the exception of an allowance for personal needs, must be applied toward payment of the nursing home bill. The balance will be paid by the veterans’ agent at the state approved per diem rate. (3) The patient’s personal needs allowance shall not be used to purchase items included in the per diem rate set by the DHCFP for the facility. Maximum accumulated personal needs benefits are subject to the provisions of 108 CMR 5.02(11).