Assisting Hands Boston Northwest is pleased to welcome Fred McMillan, RN, to our team as our Veteran Advocate. Fred brings 30 years of experience with the Department of Veterans Affairs (VA) to our new Veteran Advocacy and Benefits Coaching service, which helps veterans and their families access the benefits they have earned.
Fred McMillan’s VA Experience
Fred is a Registered Nurse whose 30-year career with the VA began at the VA Hospital in Bedford, Massachusetts. His first role there was Clinical Instructor, where he oriented new nurses who were caring for veterans. He was later promoted to Quality Manager and then to Associate Chief Nurse.
Fred has also published numerous articles in nursing, psychiatry, and health care journals. He is proud of his service to veterans, particularly when they receive every benefit they have earned.
What Is Veteran Advocacy and Benefits Coaching?
Navigating the VA can be complicated. Our Veteran Advocacy and Benefits Coaching service helps veterans find their way through the system and make the most of their earned benefits. Fred’s work centers on three areas:
- Benefits packages and eligibility. Guidance on personalized VA health care benefit packages, including treatment of illnesses and injuries, preventative care, and specialized medical support.
- System navigation. Direct support for veterans connecting with VA Admissions and Eligibility offices, and coordination with primary care teams for ongoing support needs.
- Maximizing disability ratings. Assistance with filing claims, gathering service-connection documentation, and requesting re-evaluations for increased disability ratings.
Fred will also brief veterans on other services and benefits they may be eligible for.
Home Health Aide and Aid and Attendance Programs
Two VA programs often come up when families are planning care at home.
The VA Home Health Aide (HHA) program is funded by the VA and provides in-home help to elderly veterans, at no cost to those who are eligible. Care comes from aides who work under the supervision of registered nurses. Eligibility begins with enrollment in VA health care and a clinical assessment of the veteran’s need for help at home. Whether a veteran is already enrolled or just getting started, Fred will advise on the best path to determine eligibility.
Aid and Attendance is a VA pension benefit for eligible veterans, spouses of veterans, and surviving spouses who need regular help with daily living to remain at home. Eligibility depends on wartime active-duty service, age, and specific asset and income criteria. Fred can explain how the benefit works and help families understand whether it may apply to them.
Eligibility for VA programs depends on individual circumstances, so every conversation begins with a one-on-one overview of the veteran’s situation.
How to Get Started
- Schedule a 1:1 overview of VA benefit programs with our Veteran Advocate.
- Confirm eligibility through the VA.
- Schedule a home care assessment with Assisting Hands Boston Northwest.
Connect With Our Veteran Advocate
Please join us in welcoming Fred to Assisting Hands Boston Northwest. If you are a veteran, or you are caring for one, here is how to take the next step:
- Visit our Veteran Care page to learn more about veteran home care and benefits.
- Complete our intake form to see what benefits you may qualify for. There is no cost and no obligation.
- Call 781-385-4612 to get connected with our Veteran Advocacy team.
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