VA Community Care Network Benefits: Accessing Home Care Services Through VA-Approved Providers in Springfield, IL
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VA Community Care Network Benefits: Accessing Home Care Services Through VA-Approved Providers in Springfield, IL

Published On
October 5, 2025
Springfield sits right in the heart of Region 2 of the VA Community Care Network, which covers Illinois along with several other Midwest states. This regional setup means you've got access to a well-established network of providers who've been specifically approved by the VA to deliver quality care right in your own home.

The beauty of this system? It's designed to get you the care you need without endless waiting or traveling long distances. The VA Community Care Network (CCN) serves as the bridge between you and trusted community providers, ensuring veterans receive timely, high-quality care when VA facilities can't meet all their needs directly.

How to Access VA-Approved Home Care Services

To tap into these home care services through VA-approved providers in Springfield, you'll need to start with your VA primary care provider. They're your gateway to authorization. Think of them as your advocate who opens the door to community care services.

Once you've received authorization from the VA, you can search for approved providers using the VA's location finder tool.
 
But don't worry about doing this alone. The process includes coordination between your VA team and the community provider to ensure seamless care.

What Types of Services Are Available?

The VA Community Care Network offers several key home care services that can make a real difference in daily life:
  • Home Health Aide (HHA) services: Your caregiver isn't a nurse, but they work under the supervision of a Registered Nurse who regularly assesses your ongoing needs.
  • Homemaker assistance: Help with household tasks that keep your home running smoothly.
  • Personal care services: Assistance with activities of daily living like bathing, dressing, and meal preparation.
  • Respite care: Temporary relief for family caregivers.
  • Skilled nursing services: For more complex medical needs like wound care or medication management.
Typically, you'll need to demonstrate that you require assistance with at least three Activities of Daily Living (ADLs) to qualify for Homemaker and Home Health Aide care.

Benefits of Working with CCN Providers Like BrightStar Care

When you choose a CCN provider like BrightStar Care of Springfield/Bloomington, you're getting a partner who understands the unique needs of veterans. Here's what sets us apart:
  1. Comprehensive nurse-led care: Every veteran receives oversight from a Registered Nurse, ensuring your care plan stays current with your changing needs.
  2. Specialized expertise: We offer training for conditions that commonly affect veterans, including neurological conditions like ALS, MS, and Parkinson's Disease, as well as Alzheimer's and dementia care.
  3. Flexible service options: Whether you need a few hours of help each week or around-the-clock care, we can scale our services to match your needs.
  4. Direct coordination with VA: We work hand-in-hand with your VA care team, so everyone stays on the same page about your health and care goals.

Getting Started with VA Community Care Coordination

Ready to move forward? Here's your action plan:
For Region 2 (which includes Springfield), contact:
  • Optum Community Care Services: (844) 839-6108.
  • Hours: Monday through Friday, 8 AM - 6 PM.
When you call, they can help you:
  • Check the status of referrals.
  • Confirm your eligibility for services.
  • Connect you with local approved providers.
  • Resolve any questions about claims or coverage.
You can also reach out directly to BrightStar Care of Springfield/Bloomington at (217) 318-3396. Our team understands the VA system and can help guide you through the application process while ensuring you get the care you deserve.

Frequently Asked Questions

Q: How do I know if I qualify for VA home care services?
A: Generally, you'll need to demonstrate that you require assistance with at least three Activities of Daily Living (ADLs) and have authorization from your VA primary care provider. The best way to find out is to speak directly with your VA care team.

Q: Will I be charged for services from CCN providers?
A: You may have copayments just like any other VA service, but you won't pay out-of-pocket at the time of care. Services are billed directly to the VA.

Q: Can I choose my home care provider?
A: Yes! Veterans with VA Health Care have the right to be involved in choosing their providers, including approved agencies like BrightStar Care.

Q: How quickly can I start receiving services?
A: Once you have VA authorization and connect with an approved provider, services can often begin relatively quickly. Contact your chosen provider directly to discuss timelines.

Q: What if I need emergency care?
A: For emergency situations, contact your provider immediately or call 911. Most approved providers have protocols for handling urgent situations and coordinating with your VA care team.

Contact BrightStar Care of Springfield/Bloomington! 

BrightStar Care of Springfield/Bloomington's team of professionals will assist you in finding the right caregiver for your loved one. Contact us today to learn more about caregiving services! Our office is at 801 S MacArthur Blvd, Springfield, IL 62704. You may also call us at (217) 318-3396

We look forward to hearing from you!