DVA Information
Everything you need to know about DVA community nursing — eligibility, the referral process, and how services are funded.
Eligibility
Who Can Access DVA Nursing?
DVA community nursing is available to eligible veterans, war widows, and widowers who hold a valid DVA card and have an assessed clinical need for home nursing care.
- DVA Gold Card holders — eligible for all clinically required nursing services
- DVA White Card holders — eligible when nursing relates to an accepted condition
- Must have an assessed clinical need for nursing or personal care at home
- Services must be provided by a DVA-contracted provider
Funding
How Services Are Funded
For eligible clients using a DVA-contracted provider like Abode Nursing, services are fully funded by DVA. There are no out-of-pocket costs for approved nursing care.
Providers are paid under DVA's fee schedule based on a 28-day claiming cycle. Some consumables such as continence products or diabetes supplies may be sourced separately through DVA's appliance arrangements.
If care needs are unusually intensive, providers may seek exceptional case approval from DVA to ensure you receive the level of support you require.
Referral Process
How to Get Started
Getting set up with DVA community nursing is straightforward. Here is how the process works.
Clinical Need Identified
Your GP, hospital doctor, or nurse practitioner identifies that you need home nursing support.
Written Referral Sent
A written referral is completed and sent directly to Abode Nursing (the DVA-contracted provider).
DVA Eligibility Verified
We verify your DVA eligibility and confirm the referral is valid before proceeding.
In-Home Assessment
A registered nurse visits your home to complete a comprehensive nursing assessment.
Care Plan Created
An individualised nursing care plan is developed based on your assessment and clinical needs.
Services Begin
Regular nursing visits commence and your care plan is reviewed and adjusted as your condition changes.