Prosthetics and Sensory Aids Services
Prosthetic & Sensory Aids Service (PSAS) provides comprehensive support to optimize health and independence of the Veteran. Our vision is to be the premier source of prosthetic and orthotic services, sensory aids, medical equipment, and support services for Veterans. VA Prosthetic and Sensory Aids Service (PSAS) is the largest and most comprehensive provider of prosthetic devices and sensory aids in the world. Although the term "prosthetic device" may suggest images of artificial limbs, it actually refers to any device that supports or replaces a body part or function. PSAS provides a full range of equipment and services to Veterans. These range from items worn by the Veteran, such as an artificial limb or hearing aid; those that improve accessibility, such as ramps and vehicle modifications; to devices surgically placed in the Veteran, such as hips and pacemakers. Benefits Programs include Automobile Adaptive Equipment (AAE), Home Improvements and Structural Alterations (HISA) Grant, and Clothing Allowance.
PSAS Clinical Services include Orthotics and Prosthetic Services, hearing aids and eyeglasses, and a wide range of comprehensive services and items including but not limited to:
- Sensory aids such as hearing and blind aids
- Mobility aids such as walkers and wheelchairs
- Communication and assistive devices
- Home respiratory therapy such as home oxygen services
- Recreational/rehabilitative equipment
- Surgical Implants
- Durable medical equipment
- Prosthetic item repairs
Clothing Allowance Eligibility
Veterans who are service-connected for a disability for which they use prosthetic or orthopedic appliances or whose service-connected skin condition requires prescribed medication that irreparably damages outer garments may receive an annual clothing allowance payment. Beginning December 16, 2011, multiple clothing allowance payments are payable for Veterans who have one or more appliances/devices/skin medications that causes wear, tear, or irreparable damage to one or more articles of clothing. To apply for one or more clothing allowances, complete VA Form 10-8678 no later than August 1st of each year. Please submit this form to the Prosthetic and Sensory Aids Service (PSAS) at the VA Medical Center closest to you. Please do not submit your application/form to PSAS Central Office in Washington, DC. For the special benefit amount for clothing allowance, see the Special Benefit Allowances Rate Table.
Home Improvements and Structural Alterations (HISA)
Under the Home Improvements and Structural Alterations (HISA) program, Veterans with service-connected disabilities or Veterans with non-service-connected disabilities may receive assistance for any home improvement necessary for the continuation of treatment or for disability access to the home and essential lavatory and sanitary facilities. A HISA grant is available to Veterans who have received a medical determination indicating that improvements and structural alterations are necessary or appropriate for the effective and economical treatment of his/her disability. A Veteran may receive both a HISA grant and either a Special Home Adaptation (SHA) grant or a Specially Adapted Housing (SAH) grant.
HISA grant provides for medically necessary improvements and structural alterations to a Veteran/Servicemember’s residence for the following purposes:
- allowing entrance to, or exit from their primary residence
- use essential lavatory and sanitary facilities,
- allowing accessibility to kitchen or bathroom sinks or counters
- improving entrance paths or driveways in immediate area of the home to facilitate access to the home
- improving plumbing or electrical systems made necessary due to installation of medical equipment in the home
Automobile Adaptive Equipment
This program provides the necessary AAE and training to enable disabled Veterans and Servicemembers to operate a motor vehicle safely and permit access to and from the vehicle in a safe manner. Veterans are trained, through the VA Driver's Rehabilitation Program, how to safely operate their vehicle on our nation's roadways.
The VA also provides necessary equipment such as platform wheelchair lifts, UVLs (under vehicle lifts), power door openers, lowered floors/raised roofs, raised doors, hand controls, left foot gas pedals, reduced effort and zero effort steering and braking, and digital driving systems. Additionally, VA's program provides reimbursements for standard equipment including, but not limited to, power steering, power brakes, power windows, power seats, and other special equipment necessary for the safe operation of an approved vehicle.
To learn more about Prosthetic and Sensory Aids Service visit http://www.prosthetics.va.gov/index.asp
