VHACEC (Veterans Health Administration Community Engagement Contract)

What is VHACEC (Veterans Health Administration Community Engagement Contract)?

The Veterans Health Administration Community Engagement Contract (VHACEC) is a contracting mechanism used by the Department of Veterans Affairs (VA) to improve veterans' access to community-based services and resources. It facilitates partnerships between the VA and various community organizations to address the comprehensive needs of veterans. These needs often extend beyond traditional medical care and include housing, employment, and social support.

Definition

The VHACEC serves as a vehicle for the VA to engage with local communities and leverage existing resources to provide veterans with a more holistic and integrated approach to healthcare and well-being. These contracts aim to bridge the gap between clinical care and the social determinants of health, recognizing that factors like housing stability, employment opportunities, and social connections significantly impact a veteran's overall health outcomes. VHACEC contracts can take various forms, including Blanket Purchase Agreements (BPAs) or other contract types depending on the specific requirements of the VA facility and the nature of the services being procured. These contracts require contractors to demonstrate a strong understanding of veteran culture and the challenges they face upon returning to civilian life.

Key Points

• Community Focus: VHACEC emphasizes utilizing and strengthening community-based services to support veterans' needs.
• Comprehensive Support: These contracts address a wide range of needs beyond healthcare, including housing, employment, and social services.
• Partnership Approach: Successful VHACEC contracts require strong collaboration between the VA, contractors, and community organizations.
• Veteran-Centric: The program prioritizes a veteran-centered approach, tailoring services to meet the individual needs of each veteran.

Practical Examples

1. Homelessness Prevention: A VHACEC contract might fund a non-profit organization to provide rapid re-housing services to veterans at risk of homelessness, working closely with the VA's homeless programs.
2. Employment Assistance: A contractor might be tasked with providing job training and placement services to veterans, partnering with local employers to create employment opportunities.
3. Mental Health Support Groups: A community-based mental health provider could receive funding through VHACEC to offer support groups and counseling services specifically tailored to veterans experiencing PTSD or other mental health challenges.