Through its Home-Based Primary Care (HBPC) program, WTVAHCS is ensuring that aging and homebound Veterans—who once answered the call to serve—are not left behind. For those who can no longer travel to a VA clinic or hospital, HBPC delivers high-quality, compassionate care right to their doorstep, honoring their service with the medical attention they deserve.

With a significant portion of the Veteran population in West Texas residing in rural areas, access to medical care can be challenging. Many aging Veterans struggle with mobility issues, chronic conditions, and a lack of transportation, making it difficult to seek routine care. The HBPC program is bridging the gap by bringing a VA medical professional directly to Veterans, providing them with personalized care tailored to their specific needs.

The HBPC program is designed for Veterans with complex medical conditions who require ongoing care but may not have easy access to VA facilities. Through the HBPC program, a dedicated team of healthcare professionals—including doctors, nurses, social workers, dietitians, and mental health specialists—make regular visits to Veterans’ homes to deliver comprehensive medical services.

“For many of our Veterans, traveling to a clinic is simply not an option. By bringing care to them, we ensure they receive the attention they need while maintaining their dignity and independence,” said Ricardo Torrez, a register nurse with the WTVAHCS HBPC program. 

Army Veteran Roger Stinson, a 73-year-old Vietnam War Veteran from Midland, Texas, is one of the many beneficiaries of the program. After suffering a serious fall, Stinson found it difficult to leave his home for regular medical appointments.  Now, through HBPC, a nurse visits him routinely to monitor his blood glucose, help manage his medications, and provide ongoing rehabilitation support. 

HBPC extends beyond physical health—it also prioritizes mental and emotional well-being. Many aging Veterans struggle with loneliness, PTSD, and depression. The program provides regular check-ins with social workers and mental health specialists, ensuring Veterans receive the support they need. 

Caregiver support is another key component. Many elderly Veterans rely on family members for daily assistance, and HBPC provides training and resources to help caregivers manage their loved one’s health effectively.

Given the vast, and often remote, nature of West Texas, WTVAHCS is committed to expanding HBPC services to reach more Veterans in need. By leveraging telehealth technology, and mobile health units, the VA aims to ensure that every eligible Veteran, has access to compassionate, high-quality care. 

For Veterans like Stinson, the program is more than just healthcare—it’s a lifeline. 
“This program has been a lifesaver,” Stinson said. “I don’t have to worry about how I’m going to get to a doctor. They come to me, and they treat me like family.”

Veterans interested in Home-Based Primary Care are encouraged to contact their WTVAHCS medical team for more information.