Veterans in North Texas express concerns as the VA decreases their home-based care duration
In the heart of Texas, a growing number of veterans are finding their independence threatened by changes in the Homemaker Home Health Aide (H/HHA) Program. The VA North Texas Health Care System, which oversees this programme, has been under fire for reducing hours of care for many veterans, leaving them struggling to live independently.
Crystal Taylor, a dedicated daughter and caregiver for Veteran Billy Taylor, has made two appeals for her father to receive 24-hour care. However, the VA North Texas Health Care System has not granted this request. Similarly, 81-year-old Tommy Perdue, a Vietnam War Veteran from Ben Wheeler, TX, has had his hours reduced from 36 to 11.
The VA's website lists housekeeping as one of the services the H/HHA program can provide. Yet, the system states that the programme is not meant for 24/7 care or housekeeping. This contradiction has left many veterans and their families in a precarious situation.
The I-Team analysed VA data regarding the H/HHA program and found that in June 2024, 37% of North Texas veterans receiving H/HHA services were getting more than 20 hours per week of in-home care. By June 2025, this figure had dropped to 11%.
Tony Webb, an Army Veteran from Cedar Hill, TX, is another veteran affected by these changes. His approved hours were reduced from 36 to 9, leaving him without adequate care.
In response, the VA North Texas Health Care System has stated that they have ensured the H/HHA program is being used as designed, and that it is not meant to provide 24-hour care. They have offered information sessions to in-home care companies who provide Veteran's H/HHA services. However, no specific names of persons conducting these information sessions have been announced.
The VA encourages veterans to work with their Primary Care team about other VA programs that could help fill the gaps in care. This leaves many veterans and their families in a difficult position, having to navigate complex systems while dealing with urgent care needs.
Brian New, a member of the 11 News team since 2013, has been a voice for these veterans. He was awarded the Lone Star Emmy for best investigative reporter in 2017 for his work in this area. As of June 2025, the VA North Texas Health Care System provided H/HHA services to 8,196 veterans, a slight increase from the 7,939 veterans they served in 2024.
This issue continues to be a topic of concern for many, and the future of in-home care for North Texas veterans remains uncertain.
