UPDATE: A recording of the event is available here.
Secretary of Veterans Affairs Robert Wilkie will host his first State of VA Community Town hall on Sept. 27 1:30 p.m. to 4:30 p.m. ET. The secretary and eight guest panelists will highlight the activity and direction of VA since his appointment to lead the department in July.
“VA exists to make life easier for Veterans,” Wilkie recently told the crowd of Veterans at the AMVETS annual convention. “So my prime directive is customer service. When a Veteran comes in to VA, it is not up to him to get VA to say ‘yes.’ It is up to VA to give the Veteran tools.”
The secretary and panelists will discuss how VA is focused on becoming the leader in customer experience and improve services to our nation’s Veterans through various initiatives such as engagement with community partners, leaders, advocates, state/county VA departments, Department of Defense, Veteran Service Organizations, and community Veterans engagement boards.
The secretary will engage Veterans directly during the webcast’s live question and answer session. All attendants are invited to submit questions during the webcast. To register and watch the event go here.
Panelists include:
Dr. Lynda Davis – VA Veterans Experience Office
Dr. Richard Stone – Veterans Health Administration
Dr. Paul Lawrence – Veterans Benefits Administration
Randy Reeves – National Cemetery Administration
Alfie Alvarado-Ramos – National Association of State Directors of Veterans Affairs
Herman Breuer – National Association of County Veterans Service Officers
Anthony Wickham – National Guard
Stephen Austin – Army Reserve
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After review of all the comments, all of them have the same commonalities. Each VA facility has their own rules and every person you speak with has a different answer. We can’t gt straight out answers. The civilians that work there have paid vacations, 40 hours work weeks, holidays off, hour lunch breaks and great healthcare. Put the vets in their place!!! The VA is not consistant, no efficiency, lack of communication of any kind, doesn’t follow any set procedures, no follow through etc. I for one have had enough. I am going to the media with our case. I suggest we all do the same. It may be late for some, but it might help a few.
As an entitled Disabled veteran, I wish to know why it takes as long as it does to receive a rating. The standard FUBAR replay is number the agency has to service. Personally, I think that’s bullschitt. I have been waiting 6 months and have neighboring veterans that have been waiting for up to 2 years. I find it ironic that the VA has no rules on making rating determinations such as Social Security does. I would also presume that as many cases are filed for SS benefits as are filed for VA disability benefits. Below is Federal Code for the SS in working cases:
Code Of Federal Regulations
§ 416.1041 Table of Contents of Part § 416.1043
§ 416.1042. Processing time standards.
(a) General. Title II processing time refers to the average number of days (including Saturdays, Sundays, and holidays) it takes a State agency to process an initial disability claim from the day the case folder is received in the State agency until the day it is released to us by the State agency. Title XVI processing time refers to the average number of days, including Saturdays, Sundays, and holidays, from the day of receipt of the initial disability claim in the State agency until systems input of a presumptive disability decision or the day the case folder is released to us by the State agency, whichever is earlier.
(b) Target levels. The processing time target levels are:
(1) 37 days for title II initial claims.
(2) 43 days for title XVI initial claims.
(c) Threshold levels. The processing time threshold levels are:
(1) 49.5 days for title II initial claims.
(2) 57.9 days for title XVI initial claims.
[46 FR 29211, May 29, 1981, as amended at 56 FR 11023, Mar. 14, 1991]
When will the VA adopt such Code Regulations and get off the pot!!
Aziz Adisa Masai, M.Ed.
USMC-(redacted)
Just another barrier to ad to dissability claim backlogs.
My PCP is not on MyHealtheVet Secure Messaging. I can’t communicate with her in a timely manner. I need to ask her questions about meds or appointments, but she is not on secure messaging. I thought the VA created MyHelatheVet for better communications. If my PCP is not on Secure Messaging she is defeating the purpose you created it for.
I was injured at the VA in Houston and have evedance from my doctor. The director has sent me a letter stating no accedent was verified. Now I am being harrassed by my local VA. I truly need to speak with someone in regards to this at a higher level. I was injured and nothing is being done fo prevent things from occurring in the future.
A video of the event has been posted to Youtube. You can watch it here: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=TewZj4gYWZY&feature=youtu.be
Usually we can see these meetings AFTER THE FACT too on YouTube. This Meeting’s Video is not there, So where is the evidence being kept of this September 27th meeting?
Concerned Veteran how we knowing what is being read belief how improve Veterans Health Care by someone please tell me and others…Thanks very much and Stay Healthy and your Family and your Staff
People who read this Concerned Veterans for America in Arlington, Virginia when you called them by telephone they won’t let you have the Koch Brothers telephone number to share your belief how improve Veterans Health Care.
To anyone thinking about joining any military service:
DON’T DO IT !!!!
Read these posts – this is what awaits you if you get seriously injured in any service.
BUYER BEWARE !!!
This is ANOTHER JOKE perpetrated on the long suffering Veterans.
CLUELESS VA.
FIRE THEM ALL, President Trump!
NOBODY is reading or acting on these posts.
It’s just ANOTHER CON JOB.
Where are the questions and answers posted from the town hall? I notice that the time I already asked this at 1:55 September 27,2018 has been deleted. This is important information.
The VA needs to be shut down (Medical) and all Vets go to private sector. I have been deep into the VA healthcare here in Tennessee and now know they do not have the medical expertise needed (Specialist) to solve issues. No one gets into the Medical field to work at the VA as a career. Its a whose who of last in class types poor English skills and people just doing time for retirement and couple that with too many Vets to care for its why they have a terrible image and terrible success rates with high suicide rates.
My story proves this as it will be a year and a halve now with no cure in site and just more tests with duplicate tests being done. I have lost my job and now can barely walk and will run out of money within the next 6 months making me homeless and people wonder why Vets kill themselves.
Move VA care to the private sector.
What is the purpose of holding this Live Q & A, during a Senatorial Public hearing? This was very badly scheduled. I could not participate in this, because of other commitments. Why are Republicans touting all they have done at the VA. I have not seen any improvements, besides lip service. The VA healthcare system has worked great for me, since 2011.
I counted (ctrl-f) the number of replies (comments) by Gary Hicks (Mr Hicks appears to be a representative of the VA in some capacity) to comments left on this site. I counted the number of replies/comments Mr. Hicks has made to vets and wife’s of vets have made – the number totals 7. Seven comments and replies to scores and scores and scores of issues.
If Sec Robert Wilkie really wants an insight to vet & VA issues he should explain the 7 vs. scores issues. That may give him an insight on what is fundamentally wrong with the VA and place to begin to fix the VA.
This ‘State of VA Community Town Hall’ is one huge CON JOB.
You have dept. heads, directors, etc. telling us what wonderful jobs they are doing.
ARE YOU KIDDING ME !
Service and benefits are terrible, staffs DO NOT CARE about ANYTHING but their CHECKS and pensions.
FAT cats at the top get bonuses while Veterans are dying in waiting rooms.
You ALL need to get FIRED and Pres. Trump needs to start with a clean slate in the Dept.
All these established “directors” need to be removed! Start FRESH.
It’s shameful that men and women who put their lives on the line to defend this country are treated this way.
SHAME !!!
It would be nice if, after a Veteran Dies, the rarely paid Designated Family Caregiver, Received a letter stating the time they assisted the Veteran and recognize service without issues reported.
The rest could be general … regarding fact that VA audits have found Disabled Veterans with Designated Family Caregivers receive far superior care and have higher quality of life.
For some it’s only an atta boy, yet for some it’s a Document you can hand to a State Probate Court when a disgruntled person thinks the tiny stipend received to pay for a shower attendant, or physical therapy or even grab bars to help the Veteran should be paid back to the Probate Court. No Caregiver should have to pay money after death to other heir, that was used to pay to insure our Disabled Veterans are well cared for because Probate Courts don’t think the VA is in charge of Veteran Heaothcare.
I have served 8 total years in the service have been honorably discharged and now an attending school. Why do post GI bill vets receive BAH and forever Bill benefits while Montgomery does not? I paid unto it and served during war time also. The older vets have to juggle families, keeping food on the table, while attending a higher education. We live in a high rent also, so why only for newly discharged vets?
MR. WILKIE,
Concerning C&P exams and the myopic process the VA orchestrates the examinations. Why doesn’t the VA consider the private practice doctors opinions and diagnoses when treating Veterans that are seeking treatment at the VA.
I would like to know why most minority vets claims are denied, while many non minority claims are approved, especially illnesses associated with agent orange?
Can the VA force a veteran to use Medicare benefits? When I have gone to the local hospital for emergency care, and have requested to be transferred to my VA hospital, but this VA hospital states they have no beds available and the local non VA hospital accepts that response as an authorization to treat, and the bills are sent to this VA for payment, but do not get paid as they are being “reviewed”. During the process, the local hospital and doctors automatically bill medicare. Now we get stuck with deductables and co-pays. During this process of WAITING for a reply/decision from the VA, (over two years) the balances go to collections. Nice. I can’t even get a VA home loan because of the collections. Then the VA says they won’t pay any part of the bills because of “other insurance”, (medicare) without even LOOKING or investigating the reason for the visit. If I don’t have medicare, would the VA pay all the bills? And how long would that take??????
Please do this more often…and try using a more universal hookup as I could not hook-up to the broadcast because I did not have a compatible audio and or video system….my computer is not that old…..Thank you…this is a Great Idea.
Vietnam Veteran
Currently VA Nation Cemeteries are closed on weekends. Majority of families work during M-F. Is it possible to maybe close one day during week and open on weekend to accommodate families with burial on weekend.
Folks, try this alternate link. I don’t think the other one can handle the traffic.
https://www.va.gov/opa/live.asp
Currently VA cemetery isn’t open on weekends. To better serve families is it possible to close one day a week and be available on weekends for burials?
I opted into RAMP but the DRO made a decision on the appeal anyway 15 days later. I have a new rating but can’t receive the new monthly amount because of the pending ramp claim. What is the next step? Can you withdraw from ramp since a decision was made on an appeal?
Isn’t the VA responsible for emergency care when the hospital is on by pass and will not accept the veteran?
I tried to get online to see the State of the VA, but all I saw was this: No available media for your player.
Why does Veterans Affairs make it difficult for a veteran to obtain the four digit Medical Diagnostic Code for the specific disability a veteran is rated…this information should be easily retrievable on the Veterans Affairs e-benefits website vice having to physically call the universal phone number (1-800-827-1000) for Veterans Affairs and then waiting a few days for the document to arrive by mail…
the VA suck u will die if u go to Va stay away they r Quack doctors
i have registered but it says something about “no available
media for your player
can someone help me so i may watch and ask questions
tech support keeps saying the same thing and no is working
Veterans Affairs forms should be in same name format vice some forms wanting last name first, then first name and perhaps middle name or initial….ALL the forms should be in same format…it would be easier for your Veterans Affairs employees reading the forms….and especially for the veterans submitting the documents…
Why can’t Veterans Affairs forms become more automated when being completed on the computer…such as having the Social Security Number of the Veteran automatically places on each page after first entering this information on Page one of the Veterans Affairs form….currently the Department of Defense form for CRSC automatically puts some of this repeated same information on all pages following page one after it is first put in.
I am not sure how some are able to get through to ask questions on this webcast, but, like many others, I have also gotten the “No media available for my player”.
Anyway, I am wondering: What is being done to hold VAHCS/Medical Center management/leadership accountable for discrimination when hiring officials would opt to leave positions open rather than hire a well-qualified, disabled Veteran, simply for personal reasons?
Why won’t the Veterans Affairs doctors complete the Disability Benefits Questionnaires…when DBQs were first introduces a Veterans Affairs Undersecretary told the Disabled American Veterans specifically that VA Doctors would complete these forms…that makes sense as generally VA Doctors may be the most familiar with the veteran…Having the most familiar doctor complete the DBQ eliminates added costs to get a decision made and eliminates added time in that process.
Smoke and mirrors broken promises the only thing that changes is the number of Veterans you kill keep going up.
You people are cowards every last one of you on the board. The only ones worse then the political appointees are the Veterans that are a part of this side show. You sit in DC and hide in your offices and lack the courage to come out and listen to us face to face until we are done being heard. You are all the only things worse then Bill and Hillary. You are leaving Veterans to die on the main streets of our own country. Come out hear and don’t be a manipulative &*^)&^)*&^ like Rimann and schedule a town hall on the night of the state of the union address. I have seen low but only at the Phoenix VA do they go that low.
Based on all statistics the military is over 50% conservative and the VA especially management is over 70% Democratic. Why does that allow you the right to treat us as expendable as unborn babies. And, abort us either by denying care or bad care?
how can a veteran be found unemployable due to health but yet only receive a 70% rating? That vet is screwed,will NEVER be able to collect disability thru the state. If the vet is unemployable he should be rated 100%
WHY IS DESERT STORM NEVER MENTIONED 86,87 ONLY THE PERSIAN GULF INCIDENTS?
Why are we not allowed to record conversations with your employees. They lie and then we complain and are told it is a he said she said and nothing can be done about it? Will you people in DC sure do seem to be interested in He Said She Said when it comes from a white woman who is a democrat?
medical marijuana?
Why when complaints go to the IG and an investigation is done and policy is changed because you are over radiating Cancer patients and potentially giving them cancer? why aren’t the people who filed the complaint notified of the investigations and findings?
Why is the VA policy on Opiates so harsh on cancer survivors that you would prefer we die of kidney failure from NSAID’s rather then allow POST BMT patients to have opiates.
Why do you allow the Senior Staff at the Phoenix VA still try and kill people out right or make it so difficult to get care they commit suicide?
I tried to register to watch and ask questions, but the link doesnt work.
I am worried my concern / comment was lost in cyber space. Are all comments posted? They sited 1200 recommends yet I can see only 20
Ma’am,
VA staff will get a list of all the questions whether you and I can see them or not. It’s my understanding that they will bundle the most common questions and provide written responses to be posted to the web.
For obvious reasons, more personal questions/responses will not be made public.
I wish there was a lawyer brave enough to help.
Not one time, not once did they listen to us. And he died.
My beloved husband was 173d Airborne Ranger, member of THE Herd. He was a decorated, 100% Combat Disabled Veteran. 3 weeks before his death from cancer, after a slew of visits for help from the VA HOSPITAL, we made one last attempt for help for me Hero. The “doctor”, upon hearing my husband practically beg for help with his excruciating pain, said to us ” oh yeah! With a SNEER) !!! I KNOW what it is YOU WANT, DRUGS, AND LEFT THE ROOM. I had to bro to and pay for private doctors to take care of his back which still contained shrapnel from being blown up. What the VA recommended for being blown up? Mind over matter. 3 weeks, after that last visit, my husband died. No care AT ALL from his country. I begged pleaded cried. He was stoic, they will not help me. Thanks VA. For NOTHING! HE DIED THE BRAVEST HUMAN , I asked him how he could be so brave , he said the men he SAW die in Viet Nam died so bravely, he could do no less. His LAST word, listening to Bruce Springsteen’s born in the USA. was HOOAH!
Why can’t a veteran get his claim approved when all the info is in his medical files, because it doesn’t say SERVICE CONNECTED WE are DENIED .,, WHY
Where are the questions and comments from the town hall posted? I can’t find them easily. It was posted they would be a http://www.va.gov/ve
https://www.va.gov/opa/live.asp
Where can you see them comments and questions. The link takes you to where you can ask them, but you can’t see your question or answers to it.
can’t log in
Why are you still allowing the Phoenix VA management use new policies just like the old ones to kill and suicide Veterans?
Question – DOD, Airforce and Marine Corps stored, shipped (to and from), and used agent orange on Okinawa, but they continue to deny it for political reasons, while vets like me have been harmed by this chemical. When will they get honest?
I am a disabled Veteran who has a very unusual diagnosis. I have had difficulties obtaining care that I am entitled too because of my severe allergic airway restrictions. I am anaphylactically allergic to any thing latex I only have to be in the presence of it to have a concern. I have difficulties with carpet and the carpet at my VA center as well as the clinics and hospital are all detrimental to my condition. I can not seem to find anyone who will address this so I can stop paying out of pocket to go to an office I can physically go to without reaction for a service connected life threatening condition. SO sad when I have had to fight harder to get what I am entitled to. ie. an ambulance was called for me form my local VA center because they insisted I had to go in to sign paperwork despite my medical conditions and to further add insult to injury the VA clinic calls me and gives me grief why I have not been in and when I tell them they just say “oh thank you for your response”
and yes I have been enrolled in the choice program but they too do not listen to the requirements of my specific needs, I have even provided them clinics I have researched as appropriate and still no. Further getting them to pay a dime is ridiculous, I just end up paying the bills and as a result have purchased private health insurance, sad when this is really my only medical condition and I am a nurse so I do have significant knowledge of how to care for myself…
I took the time to type up a really good comment, a question…you’re system rejected this highly rural veteran. So I don’t waist more of my limited lifespan, please have the Puget Sound Health Care System Director contact me.
I went before the Fed Judge at the Veterans Appeal level, won my case in fact the judge said as far as she can see and is concerned the VA has screwed me since Jan 10, 1980. Not only will you still not pay, you have taken my check from me for the last 5 months without warning I still get the run around and I was told I will not get Oct 1 check so my lights will be off on Oct 2nd. WHY do yo keep allowing this to happen?
No available media for your player. Is what I get when I try to access
Why cant I receive it my computer has all the latest media players and broadcast software needed and it says I dont have media player. Another farce by the VA?
World class customer service???
Aloha,
I registered and got “No available media for your player.”
As a Choice participant once consulted out, why must the VA get involved in the approval process?
It seems we could save a min. of 2 weeks in Hawaii for the consulting physician to make whatever tests, med’s, treatment plan, etc.. to care for our needs.
As he knows it takes apx. 1 1/2- 2 hrs to find parking up at Tripler, when is that going to be addressed?
Aloha
Randy
when will the appeal and claim process improve?
Unable to login to your program.
When I login I get
No available media for your player.
Mr. Baker, we’ll have a recording posted early next week.
Has amyone resolved this problem for the comming events?
It’s t the top of my list.
Lo and Behold the webcast came on through a different method but still my message about the Veterans Choice Program (VCP) and the lack of them paying for a bill from a Hospital where I had Hip Replacement has been being denied. I’ve been receiving late notices and Collection Calls and each time I do receive one or all of these I contact the VCP and all they say “Well we have to forward this information to a special department and you should receive some information/notice within 10 days or so”. Well that time period passes and I don’t hear/read back from the VCP and then I have to recontact them because of either receiving another late notice in the mail or a Collection Call comes in and the process starts all over again.
WHY??????????
Unable to login to program.
No available media for your player.
No available media for your player.
Is a/the message shown on my computer screen when I try to log in for the Webcast! What type of media player must one have in order to be able to listen to this Webcast?
Though by now I most likely won’t get an answer in time to be able to listen to it so wonder why it is that one wasn’t told that one had to have a specific media player in order to listen to the webcast.
Also a message I left yesterday wasn’t on this posting area so makes me wonder if only certain messages are allowed to be posted here.
Maybe someone does not want to read about my disappointment with the Veterans Choice Program and the complaint I messaged about!!!
Why does Secretary Wilkie take statements from the IOM reports out of context to support the VA’s objections to the Blue Water Veterans of the Vietnam War receiving Agent Orange exposure benefits, when the IOM statements in context support the Blue Water Veterans getting the benefits?
I was approved for benefits due to choroidal melanoma 2 months ago–when do I benefits begin?
My husband served in the Marines from 1978-1981. He went thru Stage III Colon Cancer last year. He lost his business because he couldn’t work thru the surgeries and chemo and radiation. We went to the VA to get help for him and were told that he didn’t serve during a war time so he is not eligible. He went into the Marines at age 17 to protect and serve his country. How can they deny him coverage. He had no way of knowing that he would not be in a war. All veterans that have signed up to protect and serve their country should be eligible for benefits regardless if they served during a war period. He is now trying to work in a factory while carrying around a permanent colostomy bag and has developed a hernia that he will have to undergo another surgery, direct cause of having to work. Not to mention the numbness and tingling he has in his feet and hands from radiation and chemo. Someone explain to me why this is fair.
why is it that the military lost my medical records even though I have buddy statements it’s been a battle the whole way currently waiting for my hearing in Washington. I have had three surgeries on the same ankle through my other hospital since VA still has not made their decision on this. Been 5 years and still nothing
I am a Iraq war vet and i got out in 2006. The benefits that i was told that i was entitled to have been BS. I actually had to go outside the VA to civilian doctors to get healthcare. Issues that they knew about and diagnosed me with and wasnt treating me. Since i started going to outside doctors now the VA wants to cut my benefits because they say im cured. I hate ut but I had to start back going to the VA because it got to expensive . The politicians say we care about the vets but its only when its election time. Im tired and frustrated with this @#$% up system. We need more American doctors in the VA because the foriegn doctors dont care.
Please answer my question
My husband is a Gulf War veteran and for the past 8 months we have been jumping through hoops to get his claim approved why is this taking so long
I am wondering why there is no new Shingles Vaccine available at Our Pgh. PA. VA Hospital ?
Why does getting anything through the VA medical system have to be a fight to get things to help a veterans quality of life to be better? For example, I am 100% disabled, and my manual wheelchair needed new wheels and tires because the tires had no tread left on them and the spokes kept coming loose and poked into my hands when I used it. Why would it take 6 months to get new wheels and tires? When I contacted the manufacturer of my chair, they said it should only take up to 2 weeks to get new wheels and tires. Also, why are veterans usually denied for accessibility items for their home through the VA medical system so quickly only to have the veteran to reapply for it and have it given to them? That does not seem like that is a very cost effective plan for anyone… PLEASE STOP MAKING VETERANS JUMP THROUGH HOOPS TO GET WHAT THEY NEED!!!
Why over 3 1/2 years to make a compensation decision in NC and still have not completed? Still no decision or status as of yet! Somebody should be held accountable!!! Needs to be undercover investigators going in to the VA offices to find out why cases are not processed, decisions made, Letters sent out and people held accountable! I would do it for free!! VA needs to be put on production and hourly per – per performance with demotions/firing..
Questions for webcast:
The VA services are concentrated in locations around regional offices and facilities making access difficult. How can the VA assist veterans living in counties with no VA facilities?
I read about the 9 million veterans enrolled in VA healthcare. Many veterans have multiple insurance covering their healthcare such as VA, Medicare and Tricare. How do you coordinate medical services with other government health care providers to maximize return on the hundreds of thousands of VA healthcare employees and hundreds of billions of dollars spent each year by the VA.
Last year I was granted services in the community, however I am now getting a bill that is not being paid by the VA. How do I understand this system and how does my Doctor understand the system so that I am not being left with medical bills that I cannot pay?
They need to do away with the fix rating for some disabilities because Unfortunately they do not understand that some do get worse instead of making a veteran fight to prove they are in pain or has gotten worse they tell them no you did not they do not know the pain you were in.
Mr. Wilkie,
I demand to know why the hell the stupid US government deliberately and willfully forces millions of veterans to go through TriWest one of the most criminally corrupt insurance companies in the world! How the hell can the US government give TriWest Billions of US dollars and then fine TriWest a mere $10 million after TriWest deliberately and willfully cheated the US government! I demand to know the names of the criminally corrupt US agents who are being paid off by TriWest to lie to, steal from and cheat US Veterans and that TriWest be destroyed by the stupid US government who created it in the first
place!
CONCERNED CITIZEN
QUESTION – I would like to inquire as to why a retiree can not transfer his GI Bill after he has retired? The GI Bill TEB is advertised as a recruiting and retention tool but if I served 25 years and retired, why is it necessary for me to make the determination of transferring my GI Bill before I retire? What if I don’t have any kids when I retire? How about the stress of retirement and transition was a little overwhelming at the time and it was overlooked? If you earned the GI Bill and were at some point eligible to transfer the benefit, or you are a retiree, there should not be a timeline or deadline to transfer the benefit you earned. I believe this is a flaw in the system that could be addressed. Thank you!
A veteran should be able to use the Choice Program more often, as I have to travel 70 miles one way to get any special test done, when there are hospitals a whole lot closer than that. The clinic that I go to is closer but they are limited to certain things they can do for the veteran.
I have neuropathy in both legs. I have tried to apply for compensation but was told the neuropathy had to occur in the first year after my Vietnam service. How can anyone tell when any medical condition happens?
What advantage do I have as a Navy vet. with disability in being listed (enrolled for future VA nursing home care?
How is it possible to be diagnosed with PTSD, treated by the MHC at the VA clinic and then get your claim denied? How in hell does that happen?
How is it possible to be diagnosed with PTSD, treated by the VA facility and then get your claims denied by the claims department after you present all the evidence proving your claims?
I appreciate the opportunity to hear the “State of the VA” today. Recently, Senator Warner spoke on some current issues about the VAMC and there are some about which I am greatly interested and on which I would like to comment. He mentioned the difficulties the Veterans Affairs Medical Center (VAMC) is having in attracting and retaining medical providers to serve our veteran population. He indicated that measures are in the works to be able to increase the compensation of VAMC professional staff, suggesting this will significantly resolve the problem.
My observation is that, if one thinks the problem is money, i.e. salaries and/or benefits, s/he is missing a major problem with the attraction and retention of care providers. Many of the VAMC employees work very hard and are very committed to working with the veterans, especially since many are veterans themselves. The complaint I hear most, from both veterans and employees, is the atmosphere/environment. The problems are driven by a lack of personnel skilled in mid and upper-level management who fail to build cooperative and integrated teams, both inter and intra-departmentally, in order to increase efficiencies and effectiveness of the operation and reduce organizational chaos. The professionals that come to VAMC are, by and large, well-intentioned skilled clinical professionals that want nothing more than to help the vets. But after 2 or 3 years of chaotic operations, they get discouraged and many decide to go elsewhere.
Rather than paying higher salaries (not that most wouldn’t like a higher salary), a much greater service to the VA would be to resolve the chaos by hiring individuals who are able to effectively function as first line supervisors and mid-level managers (a rare skill set for clinicians); and fast tracking the removal of those problem employees who are more focused on defending their “territory” than seeing a qualitative and quantitative increase in services. Additionally, those who step up to point out organizational and operational weakness, must be protected from overt and covert retaliation. Currently there are barriers, disorganization and frustration among many, especially the professionals in many departments. Of course, there are some departments better run than others.
While you may have already explored the following questions/suggestions, I am listing them for your consideration.
How many professionals receive an exit interview? VAMC could learn much about why they are losing people. I have known several who have left without being asked about their experiences. Others are so excited to be leaving, they just want to go and not be asked. I suggest sending a non–attribution letter with a few key questions to those who have left the VAMC to go to “better jobs” during the past 2 years. You might find more answers to what needs to happen to attract and keep good people.
What kind of administrative support do professionals get? Providers want to do the job they spent so many hours training to do. I know many professionals who do their own clerical work and must keep track of their ancillary duties; they would have clerical assistance, if they were in any other organization. Such a clerk would also assist with computer and systems issues, which many professionals get frustrated with and do not like to do. I know that VAMC is not a profit-driven operation, but it could take significant lessons in efficiency and organization from places in the private sector, e.g. Mayo Clinic.
How long does a candidate wait to start work? In terms of attracting highly qualified professionals, one of the major problems is the length of time it takes for Human Resources to bring someone on board. It can take anywhere from 6 to 12 months from job advertisement to start date. It is common knowledge in the field that many of the top candidates for positions take positions outside of VAMC, because they get tired of waiting.
Do new employees receive the training they need to set them up for success? Once employees are hired and actually start work, the training on their “specific positions,” systems and culture, how things work technically, and communications between clinics is insufficient. First, they are left to interpret their job description with little guidance resulting in each “doing their own thing,” limited continuity and limited accountability. Even when someone is told to do things differently, they often continue to do it the way they think it should be, again, with no follow-up or accountability.
Does provider coding and documentation accurately depict workload? Providers complain about learning many things through trial and error, rather than some form of continuity book/training or orientation. For example, they don’t know they are doing their documentation wrong until they are chastised, which brings down morale and costs many man hours (both for the improper documentation and for corrective actions). Often providers are directed to implement new initiatives without guidance or support, adding to their frustration and diminished morale. Again, this reflects poorly on middle management’s ability to manage.
What are the processes for collaboration and cooperation between clinics? While collaboration and cooperation have improved during my time in, it is far from where it needs to be. Many providers are so busy trying to do their own job, they are unaware of many other VA programs/clinics their patients might benefit from or unaware how to connect the veterans with those services, resulting in veterans either missing out or being run around in circles. Middle management seems to lack direction and accountability; everyone seems to be doing their own thing without a common vision or sense of how to efficiently schedule the use of the veteran’s time to enhance recovery, and to organize the movement of veterans between clinics in a way that maximizes the veteran’s recovery. The veterans feel this chaos and it impacts their attitudes and well-being. The multitude of websites are also challenging for staff and veterans to manage.
Has the turn-over rate been fully explored? Many studies indicate most people leave their jobs due to dissatisfaction with their supervisor; this is a common problem in the VAMC. Many staff members feel the VA gives “lip service” to caring about staff; frustrated staff cannot provide the best service; and dissatisfaction is contagious. In other words, if you want staff to provide excellent, sincere customer service, they must feel appreciated and supported. How are AES (employee satisfaction survey) results being used to improve the working environment at the VA? I’ve heard many staff members comment that responding to the AES is a waste of time because results are not shared with them nor do they feel management is listening or acting on the results.
What kind of self-care incentives are being offered to staff? Healthy, happy staff provide better care and function as role models for their patients. Most major medical facilities outside the VA have incentive programs for staff to participate in wellness activities because they are cost effective; to my knowledge, the VAMC does not offer any such incentives. While some self-care activities have been provided, as requested by staff, they report struggling to find the time to participate and do not feel supported in doing so. This kind of “lip service” as they call it, further contributes to staff feeling the organization does not value them. In addition, staff appreciation activities are inconsistent; and some staff even view them with suspicion. Not to mention, staff who are inclined to offer self-care activities to veterans do not seem to get appropriate credit for doing so.
In closing, I have two more comments. First, for the entire time I have been involved at the VAMC, I have heard rumor about establishing a civilian advisor council for each location I welcome this and gladly share these ideas and information to improve our facility and care to our veterans. There are many retired military officers and enlisted in the area who would welcome the chance to serve on such a council. Second, I am puzzled by stories that major decisions for the Veterans Administration are being made by wealthy non-VA employees from Florida, and hope that you are addressing this aspect of the VA’s problems.
Thank you for the opportunity to express my concerns about the efficient and effective treatment of our veterans, as well as the effective management of the VA staff and facilities. Thank you also for your time and consideration of these matters.
My question is why was the invitation to today’s on line Town Hall sent out the day before the event? Recently a VA Open House was held in Chattanooga TN and I learned about it the day after on the local news. I asked one of the people at the VA Clinic about why there was no prior notice and his response was “I only learned about it late in the afternoon the day before”. I’m on a couple of VA websites and I get a couple of emails a month reminding me if I exercise I’ll feel better but nothing about today’s Town Hall or the one in Chattanooga. Communication with the Veteran is essential to our health and welfare.
Why is it that it is ok to experiment on veterans with ecstasy but yet for DECADES cannabis has worked miracles for vets but yet VA doctors will not/cannot prescribe? Is it just me?
Im a 60% disabled veteran but 100% unemployable.. My question is why are time limits there to sign up for most of the insurances V.A. has to offer… I wanted to sign up for a life insurance under V.A. but I missed out because of the time period..
We as Vets need Medical Marijuana access here in Pa and other States time is to get it now we are suffering
Navy Vet
To me it’s all a gimmick to make the veterans wait for years ” in vain” then the veteran dies case closed! (promises promises)!!! Nothing has changed and and are not going to change! Hurry Up and Wait tactic! There’s no duty to assist only duty to destroy!!! Do anyone with veterans affairs believe in our Lord?????
We are a group of 12 combat veterans of Viet Nam that have PTSD in Houston Texas and my question is why can’t we have a therapist a combat veteran of any war that we can meet with instead of people in charge that do not have a clue of what we are going through? It would be of great benefit to us thank you for your time and consideration.
When are they going to recognize the Agent Orange issue on Okinawa? I served there in 1968 and 1969 and now I have the diseases that it causes yet the VA refuses to acknowledge its use.
The disability process still uses outdated forms which is very confusing. Case in point is that my disability pay was just discontinued and they say I owe 9 months of overpayment because I misunderstood a form. I am eligible for concurrent pay (I receive my military retirement pay and my 100% disability pay). The form that is required to be signed in order to get both states that you are requesting to receive only your military pay therefore they are stopping my VA pay. Why dies this form even exist? Why would someone not want all the money entitled to them? It will now take me 6-9 mths to get my pay reinstated and I’m not sure what happens to what they say is an overpayment just because I didn’t sign a form that was not relevant. Pay issues are just as big as VA care.
As a Veteran with a claim for compensation under appeal..
Why VA does not have knowable and qualified employees evaluating Agent Orange exposure in Thailand?
I served in the Air Force from June 1966 to July 1968 on active duty at Korat, Royal Thai Air Force Base, Thailand (RTAFB). My Duties as a Aircraft Armament Systems Technician, 46250/70 Air Force Specialty Code (AFSC) at Korat during the Vietnam era had me working at the end of Taxiway, arming/de-arming aircraft at the base perimeter, and loading and un-loading them on the base Flight Line.
Although I am 100% Service Connected disable, Agent Orange is the cause of me having Diabetes Mellitus, type II. that need to be part of my Medical records.
I have provided far more accurate evidence to support my contention of working on or near the base perimeter than the VA has to discount my claim:
1. Photographic evidence showing that a large number of barrels of Agent Orange Herbicide stored on the flight line at Korat RTAFB.
2. EC-121 series aircraft with four piston engines of 3,250 HP each whose propellers generated enough wind to move the 135,000 pound aircraft. The wind from these aircraft propellers spread the herbicides well in excess of 500 meter drift zone.
3. F-105 fighter aircraft being de-armed at the end of runway.
4. Toxic chemicals killing vegetation well beyond the 500 meter drift zone.
5. Many of the “hootch” living quarters located right on the perimeter.
6. Physical training and testing as well as extracurricular activities is located on the base perimeter
Only 7% of the current US population is serving or have served. 7%. The VA receives the 2nd highest budget.
I was never a wiz at math, but something seems so very wrong with this equation. The 7% number is even smaller when it comes to veterans who have no choice but to go to the VA. Sure, I have had excellent doctors. They always quit because they are overworked, underappreciated, and for the work they do in terms of hours, underpaid. Of the 7% of us, not everyone has a claim into the VA. The number of homeless veterans rose in 2017 for the first time in 7 years. And it was not a small rise. Google Homeless veteran populations worldwide All you see is the US.
So tell me why a small percentage of Americans that fall under an organization with the 2nd highest budget continues to fail so miserably the very people it is supposed to serve?
Town hall meetings are a joke. Only some questions are answered and in an online format, you know they will cherry pick to make the VA look good.
You REALLY want to help vets? You REALLY want to know what matters? What’s really happening? Then read the comments here. We are all saying the same thing and not being heard. The VA doesn’t care about their employees or veterans. But hey, as long as your getting paid, why care?
I like your spunk and your knowledge. I wish we could work together and get some good information to the proper channels in the VA
CAPTCHA is next to impossible to get past
https://youtu.be/640QqfhHzCg
I am a retired black, female Army Veteran. 24 years and rank of LTC. My main concern is how the veterans are often treated when I am at my VA for service. Employees should have some veteran experience either by connection or having served themselves. They are often rude, arrogant, and insensitive to the veterans. I have complained more than once, on what I have observed ,and it goes nowhere! I would like to see more women veterans represented in positions of authority at all of the Veterans Hospitals. Directors, department heads, and other top administrative positions. Having said that, what is the background of the newly appointed head of Veterans Affairs? Has he ever served in any branch of the armed services ? Is he sensitive to veteran issues ? What is his background Biography and what are his political connections.?
My husband died at a VA hospital the 25th 2018. He entered the hospital on December 4th 2017 and almost from the time he entered the hospital, there was an extreme amount of negligence from the doctors. We even tried to see if we could take him to a cancer hospital but we couldn’t because he was at the VA hospital. At the cancer hospital they said you wouldn’t believe how many people had come to them stating how negligent the VA doctors were and they figured it was because no one followed through. I went to an attorney to file a law suet against VA for negligence and was told that if a survivor files against the VA, the survivors benefits are stopped and if the VA happens to loose, the benefits are stopped until VA is paid back for what they lose. In other words, the VA doctors don’t have to answer to anyone and can pretty much do as they like without any consequences which is wrong. All other doctors have to account for their actions so why don’t the VA doctors? I believe that our precious Vets deserve better than that.
You are holding this in the middle of the workday, which prevents people from attending. You can’t say you are here for the customer experience and then provide a poor customer experience for the event. We need to find someone who cares about the Purpose of the VA through their actions.
Is it possible that you could get a snack, soda/water and maybe a coffee machine at the Las Cruces VA like the Las Vegas VA has? Also, dental services so we don’t have to travel to El Paso. That would be nice for the veterans and employees since theres no cafeteria there. And it would be nice to not have to travel for the dental. Thank you for your time. I appreciate you.
I am a 20 year veteran with a twenty percent disability. I have been out of the military 15 years and my disabilities are getting worse, so I visited my VA hospital and they said they couldn’t do anything for me. I blew my knee out and had reconstruction done, I have a hearing loss and tinnitus. I am in pain every day and when the weather changes my knee swells up and I can hardly walk or bare the pain. So I contacted the VA for an increase in my disability rating and was refused. This is when I realized for the last 15 years the VA has done nothing for this disabled veteran. For every dollar I get from the VA the government takes it back from the retirement I earned. I have not gotten one phone call or email in 15 years to see I this disabled veteran is doing or if I needed help. I am not asking for a handout I am asking for what I earned. This experience made me realize the VA is not here to help veterans but to protect the government from liability due to injuries veterans suffer while serving their country. As far as I am concerned the VA can take a flying leap. It looks like I will need to get a lawyer to help me fight the VA for the Benefits I have earned. What has the VA done for this disabled veteran NOTHING.
As a Veteran VBA employee, there is a lack of interest from above to listen to those with boots on the ground. Changes are made from officials based on input from everyone except employees doing the work, who are face to face with Veterans. Management inquires for suggestions, but with decisions being made from officials who’ve never been in the line of work, it’s only to appease the employees to tease them with the thought that employees matter and that they can improve the work process. Issues that need remedied include timely updated written guidance; hire more qualified employees, update the unorganized VBA web pages which are filled with links that don’t work. Even within the VBA it is difficult to find out who does what; there should be some internal phone book/information book to understand what office does what and then to find who works in that office. Good employees are burning out, walking out, or retiring. With no employees, there’s no customer service.
I have been declared 100% permanently disabled. Since then I am having having a very hard time getting my wife enrolled into the CHAMP-VA benefit program. No email response; phone calls are either clogged or not answered it all.
We have sent in the proper forms twice. Waiting for months now. What to do?
I get the best Care from the Phoenix VA, I can not understand why politians bad mouth the people who take care of me!
I would like to know why I feel punished by the Veterans Administration because last year Social Security which I am on SSDI, and my daughter was receiving SSI, and for some reason they decided to change her to SSDI. According to their own requirements so does not meet their standards, my daughter has NEVER worked. Now because of this action the VA has cut off my mileage allowance and I now have a medication co-pay. I am barely making it financially now! Fact is since the Veterans Administration has cut me off just so you know I have drove (7,498) miles without help so far because of appointments at VA and outside the VA that I have been sent to. And yes I have seen every office at my VA and spoken with Atlanta and nobody has wanted to help me. Please can anyone help or do I just leave the VA system?
If you would like a copy of my letter I sent to President Trump please advise through email
• I retired November 31, 1993 from the United States Army. I served in Korea in 1975-1976 and two tours in Saudi Arabia weeks after Desert Storm, I served as a maintenance Technician working on trucks, tanks, Nike Hercules radars, Patriot Systems etc. Twenty years in and out of war zones, working in areas where agent orange had been deployed. Veterans who served in a unit, in or near the Korean Demilitarized Zone (DMZ) anytime between April 1, 1968 and August 31, 1971, Can be a part of the Agent Orange Registry health exam. Those after August 31, 1971 cannot be part of the of registry or receive the exam. The half-life of dioxin varies depending on where it is found, in humans the half life is between 11 and 15 years, in surface soil that has been fully exposed to sunlight the half-life is between 1 and 3 years, and in sediment the half-life can be more than 100 years. – Philip Jones Griffiths, Agent Orange: It is also known that as the years go by that concertation in humans becomes greater if they eat and drink the waters and food in the areas sprayed due to intake of food and water. Since time severed in Korea was generally six months, tours were changed to 1 year shortly after the August 31, 1971, this is double the exposure time of those between April 1, 1968 and August 31, 1971 who only had to spend one day in the area. This is very interesting as Veterans who served in Vietnam between 1962 and 1975, regardless of length of time are covered by the VA and veterans who served aboard smaller river patrol and swift boats that operated on the inland waterways of Vietnam (also known as “Brown Water Veterans”) are also covered or fighting to be covered. Many thousands of Soldiers, Airman etc. served in the areas that have been determined to be hot spots in Korea. Many of the areas/camps/bases were closed because of sever contamination, But still veterans were not allowed the benefits deserving them.
Ischemic Heart Disease and Agent Orange From the VA web site
Veterans who develop ischemic heart disease and were exposed to Agent Orange or other herbicides during military service do not have to prove a connection between their disease and service to be eligible to receive VA health care and disability compensation.
Ischemic heart disease is also known as coronary artery disease or “hardening of the arteries.”
As a retired officer who worked years around ionized and non-ionized radiation went through the
Diabetes Mellitus Type 2 and Agent Orange
Veterans who develop type 2 diabetes mellitus and were exposed to Agent Orange or other herbicides during military service do not have to prove a connection between their diabetes and service to be eligible to receive VA health care and disability compensation.
About type 2 diabetes mellitus
Diabetes is a chronic disease that affects the body’s ability to use blood sugar for energy. In type 2 diabetes mellitus, the body does not produce enough insulin or the body’s cells ignore the insulin.
Prostate Cancer and Thyroid cancer has been identified related to radiation exposure.
Veterans with known Agent Orange exposure have a higher rate of thyroid cancer than the rest of the population. March 2015 Karen T. Le, MD, an endocrine fellow at Cedars Sinai Medical Center and VA Greater Los Angeles Healthcare Center in Los Angeles,
From the VA web site – Certain illnesses are associated with Gulf War service in the Southwest Asia theater of military operations from August 2, 1990 to present. Medically unexplained illnesses (also commonly referred to as Gulf War illness or Chronic Multi-symptom illness) are a significant concern for some Veterans who served during the Gulf War.
• After being diagnosed with Gulf War Syndrome. (I spent two tours in Saudi Arabia), it was determined that I had many of the issues that this Syndrome encompasses. Gulf War Veterans who meet the criteria below do not need to prove a connection between their military service and illnesses in order to receive VA disability compensation. This sentence has remained untrue to thousands of Veterans of previous wars.
• The VA says you have as an example Myalgic Encephalomyelitis/Chronic Fatigue Syndrome (ME/CFS), a condition of long-term and severe fatigue that is not relieved by rest and is not directly caused by other conditions.
• Fibromyalgia, a condition characterized by widespread muscle pain. Other symptoms may include insomnia, morning stiffness, headache, and memory problems.
• Functional gastrointestinal disorders, a group of conditions marked by chronic or recurrent symptoms related to any part of the gastrointestinal tract. Functional condition refers to an abnormal function of an organ, without a structural alteration in the tissues. Examples include irritable bowel syndrome (IBS), functional dyspepsia, and functional abdominal pain syndrome.
• Undiagnosed illnesses with symptoms that may include but are not limited to: abnormal weight loss, fatigue, cardiovascular disease, muscle and joint pain, headache, menstrual disorders, neurological and psychological problems, skin conditions, respiratory disorders, and sleep disturbances.
The fact that the VA hospitals and private physicians identify, and document service members have one or many of these illnesses such as I do. The reviewing doctor for disability says no this can’t be true and disallows the disability. Yet years of documentation states differently.
• I have been told “I was not in war zones”, three Times with twenty years’ service to prove it. My DD214 states so. I was told my cancers could have been caused by the radiation exposure I had been around, but the VA doctors told me they can not put that down, they were directed not to. Even though the Army in the 60’s published documentation that working as a radar tech on specific radars, I would develop Thyroid, Prostate and possibly kidney cancer. It took 24 years to get my 100% disability. The VA gave me zero percent when I retired from the Army. I was border line diabetic being slightly high when I got out of the service but a few years later I was a full blown type two diabetic. I was treated while in the service for Angina Spasms which I was air lifted from the field during a training exercise for pre-deployment. Angina (angina pectoris) describes the pain, discomfort, ache, or other associated symptoms that occur when blood flow to heart muscle cells is not enough to meet its energy needs.
• The classic description of angina is a crushing pain, heaviness or pressure that radiates across the chest, sometimes down the arm, into the neck, jaw or teeth, or into the back. It may be associated with shortness of breath, nausea, vomiting, sweating, and weakness.
• The doctors told me at Fort Bliss Texas at William Beaumont Army Medical Center that I should get some rest not to go back to the field as I had an Angina attach and had a very slow heart rate. The medic in the field could not get a pulse. The VA did not take into account what had taken place. This is because the Hospital did not do a full workup on me. After I was discharged I was told that I had Ischemic heart disease is also known as coronary artery disease or “hardening of the arteries.”. Civilian doctors told me that I had this disease but even when I was told by the VA that I had approximately 40% blockage that I did not have the disease. Nor was any of this related to my military service even when told this was related to my military service due to the stress etc. and hospital visits.
• The VA needs to be upfront with their patients. I found out when I saw in my records that I had Kidney Stones and a sever crushed spine and bulging disks. I was told that I did not have any issues even after being at the hospital many times for extreme back and side pain. The disability board knew of the issues as did the doctors but the information was kept from me even though I was in sever pain, as it seemed they were keeping it from me so I would not put my claims in. I had reoccurring Kidney stone issues while I was in the service.
• If the Law states that if you served in an area and have a resulting medical condition and are covered then how is it possible to dismiss all medical data to prevent soldiers, sailors and airman from getting the medical help, and compensation. The words those who served… military service do not have to prove a connection between their …and service to be eligible to receive VA health care and disability compensation is a total outright lie.
• I have Steep Apnea and many other issues that have been addressed with many of the conditions that have been determined to be service connected. My cancers have not all been service related even though documentation stated that I would, not maybe, would have theses cancers.
• The VA has wonderful doctors and staff but when given guidance that detriments the veteran they are not acting on behalf of all Americans who want our veterans who are 1% of the nation protecting the nation to have all the corrective help the veterans need and compensation for the activities and health issues that have caused them great pain and distress.
This is a corrected version of my earlier comments
In a very positive note! The VA hospital in Lexington Kentucky is outstanding! They are truly great folks that try their best to serve all those who have served our nation. If all veterans are so lucky to have a great hospital system in their state they are extremely lucky! We need to give credit where credit is due! Take the bureaucracy out of health system, give access to the veterans their “full” health documents including doctors notes, electronically, this will cut paper costs, time to get records and give the veteran complete and concise information. Access to all x-rays and findings etc. Why do we have a one – two hour sit down with a disability nurse/doctor who makes judgements at the moment. If you state you have sever pain that is constant, yet you also have muscle pain that occurs in spirts in different areas of your body and your have a history backing this. Why is the findings not based on this. You are told you do not qualify because the pain is not constant in the different areas i.e. Fibromyalgia, with the associated symptoms documented. Any way to disqualify or minimize the disability is the goal regardless of the health of the veteran.
I am certified PTSD VIETNAM COMBAT VETERAN MARINE CORPS 1965-1970! Ensued many challenges while trying to complete my education depression,divorces and deceased parents! Made deans list…financially unable to complete education…can Veterans G.I. Bill support my needs to get a home to own? Thank you!
I have a question. I have been battling with St. Petersburg VA for five years to be treated fairly on my
Claims.
Each and claim was denied no new evidence or
no medical evidence to support my claims. I knew
This was wrong and continued to fight.
I finally got a case worker at the St. Petersburg who help me a lot.
I filed a 277 page CUE going back to active duty until
currrent. I addressed each and every C&P claim
and I proved without reasonable doubt for 25 years
I have been telling the truth and ignored.
I filed this report April-2015.
I also filed an appeal and submitted the same 277
Pages.
This April I opted to be a part of the Ramp Program
I’m still waiting the folder has gone from St.Petersburg to the Phoenix Va and on the 20th of
September 2018 it was sent to the Sandiago VA.
Three years on the normal appeal and now 6 months
on the Ramp Program. Unfortunately I was not one
of the 81.000 claims that got completed in record
time.
My Ramp Claim has been in Preperation for Decision
since May -2018.
I know I made a lot of people mad fighting for my
rights and medical care. I feel like my claim is
being ignored to punish me for standing up for myself.
Maria Lindemann
Nothing about FMP (Foreign Medical Program) for veterans living abroad. What about medical care for veterans living abroad that have no service connected medical issues? Some of us never got shot, are just old, and need medical care too.
Richard
5th Infantry, 3rd Battalion
I am a PTS diagnosed Vietnam Vet 8-15-68 to 8-15-69. I bet you don’t answer this one. In 2015 my sleep aid ambien that I rely on every night was cut to 5 mg per night. I was on 10 mg since 2001 through my private physician. I am not a pain med user, I don’t do any drugs. If you wanted to improve my life give me what I need. Don’t handcuff my mental health Dr. with blanket rules that do not apply to me and never have. YOU HAVE TO GET TO INDIVIDUAL CARE FOR THE INDIVIDUALS. You are never going to be successful with any reform until you do that.
Oh yes the last time I called the white house hot line nobody ever followed up.
Looks to me that you stacked the panel with yes people. Really, you think us vets buy that ?
I sent a letter to the President concerning my PTSD and physical claim (jeep accident 1969-Chu Lai) and mentioned to him all I get from VA on my determined 120% disability, is a 70%+20%. Again, all I get is “it’s the formula the VA uses, continues to use and always has used. I’m sorry–too bad, good bye. He had some lower staff reply to me. I’ve been 14 years as a combat Vietnam era Marine fighting this absurdity; since when does 2+2=1. For an entire administration, including the President, highlighting their passion, support, and praise for the military, they certainly have fallen short to the truly forgotten era of war, the Vietnam Veteran. I believe this great country’s most unselfish group; and I belonged to the greatest branch-United States Marine Corps who since my home coming in 1970, continues to fight this battle of justice and fair compensation.
i dont know where to begin. i served in the US MARINES from
59 to ’62. i had dental work done while in my first months. once was from an accident at the rifle range. im now at a stage where my teeth are broken off at the gum line from wearing a partial. i cannot eat properly, speak properly, and experience sickness from poison getting into my system from my teeth. im ashamed to smile. im not looking for any compensation, i just beg you to help me get my mouth fixed. the VA said they cant help me because my problem isnt service connected. the on and off pain i experience keeps me awake for long periods. any reply and any help you can give me will be greatly appreciated.
I have been trying to get the VA to look at my lower back injury for more than 22 years. I injured my lower back and my shoulder while in the military. After I retired I tried to get the VA to look at both and they have had me come in 6 times and refuse to even look at my lower back. They gave me 10% for my shoulder and 10% for two toes that were crushed but refuse to look at my lower back. The last time I went in they took the 10% for my toes saying I didn’t need them. I have been to a surgeon about my shoulder and back on my own. The surgeon said he could operate on both but gave me an 85% possibility of being paralyzed from the waist down.
Who is this Secretary of Veterans Affairs and what qualifications does he have. Is he one of Trumps buddies who got a job because he knows Trump or is he a Veteran that deals with our problems?
I live overses. The VA IT system would seem to be incapable of having a VA client living anywhere outside the US or its US Protectorates. The online forms and form fields do not provide for addresses that don’t conform to their narrow field of understanding of the world.
This is a draft email I have been sitting on for sometime now. I haven’t sent in fear of upsetting a VA staff member and never getting any support ever again.
“Today I received a letter from the VA explaining EFT etc. The contents aren’t really important for the moment.
But what is important to note is (as highlighted in the attached pdf file),
The post code (the ZIP code in US parlance) is absolutely wrong. Firstly, there are no 3 digit post codes here in Australia. I have noted this fact to numerous VA staff over the past weeks. The VA does not seem to be able to grasp this concept. My post code is 3851. Not 708. I have no idea where that number, 708 comes from or how it gets generated.
The letter itself was dated March 14. Keep that date in mind . . .
The postmark on the envelope is dated 4 April. That would suggest that the letter sat around somewhere for a long, long time.
Now given the VA’s IT budget must exceed 10’s of millions of dollars each year it would appear to the most casual observer that the VA IT staff/contractors, those that get payed to design functional web pages (eBenifits for example), may be grossly over paid.
With this in mind it’s no wonder that a check, with a value in excess of $21,000, is mailed to a client with an address that is incorrect never gets to where it should. This would also bear true for other correspondence that is of great importance to the VA client. I still haven’t received the letter explaining my claim results.
Am I complaining to you? No, not by a long shot. I’m really trying to put a smile on your face. I can appreciate that you probably get frustrated working for a system with so many in-built problems to clients that you and your team try so hard to repair and overcome.”
Fix your online forms! Please.
Bob
Perth, Australia
I was medically retired and the va denied me VA benefits for 8 1/2 years!!!! They still won’t pay me what is owed. I’m too sick to go outside in the sun or I pass out. I explained everything in a nexus letter.
On another note, I love that you will be having the question and answer session during the duty day. I mean, its a great way to reduce the number of folks able to participate, like me. I will not be participating as I work to do.
How ’bout next time y’all think of us and make this a convenient event for someone other than you.
JMP
Dear VA Leadership,
As a current DoD Acquisition Program Manager (GS-15) and a 90% disabled vet, can someone explain why there is not enough funding in the Veteran’s Choice program for me to see a doctor local to my area forcing me to drive 85 miles through Northern Virginia traffic to the VA Med Center in Richmond, but there is plenty of funding to buy $2,000,000 worth of riot gear? Who do you think is rioting? Are you afraid of the Vets? Why are you spending my tax dollars and leveraging my local medical access to build a riot squad? Do you know something we don’t?
JMP
I am a SDVOSB business owner here in TN and reported a systemic technology issue to Secretary Wilke’s predecessor back in July that’s negatively impacting AE Status Veterans and violating President Obama’s Veteran’s Identification Card Act of 2015. I have not received any response.
What is Secretary Wilke’s mailing address, office telephone number, and fax number? Thanks!
I have been going to the VA for decades. Most of the time my care is excellent. I had angioplasty in 2012 which saved my life. I had my gall bladder removed a couple of years ago. Everything went great.
However, I hurt my left knee when I was stationed in Japan in 1968. That knee has given me trouble for the past 50 years and has gotten to the point that I can barely move. It wasn’t until a couple of years ago that I finally got a doctor who would actually listen to me and ordered an MRI to find out what was really wrong. We already knew that I had no cartilage in my knees, but the MRI showed that I also had a torn meniscus and that my ligaments, muscles and tendons had been “frayed” or as the nurse put it “shredded”. The last is probably why my knee started collapsing and made he have to take a disability retirement from work. I most recently asked if they were doing stem cell treatments for knees at the VA and was told that that treatment was not approved for VA use.
I started going to the VA because they made a big push for female veterans back in the 90s. Now I go because I only get $1448 a month to live on.40 years ago that would have been great, but today rent and utilities takes up almost 3/4 of it. I have 13 prescriptions that I get from the VA and 1 other that is cheaper from the local pharmacy (low dose aspirin – $5 a month from VA, $5 a year at pharmacy). I go now because if I don’t, I’ll either be on the streets or dead.
I know you’re busy. I’m a disabled Marine Vietnam vet. I recently visited my St. Louis clinic to get help for a problem with my feet (I previously suffered from immersion foot and jungle rot). I was told by my primary that there are so few podiatrists associated with the VA that they can only see veterans who also have diabetes and suggested that I seek help from an “outside podiatrist”. Is this SOP (standard operating procedure)???
Hello,
SEMPER FI….
no it is not. You need to have an appointment with your primary care doctor and request a consult to see the podiatry clinic. Then, the podiatry clinic should call you for an appointment.
Hope this helps
I am a homeless 60 years old disabled Vet who went through a bad divorce in South Dakota and I just moved back home to Portland Oregon in August to be with my family. I do have a very temp place where I at now but it is not a good situation it is with my 82 year old mom because of my health I am sleeping in her bed and she is sleeping on a cot in the front room. I can not afford rent with what I get from Social Security Disabilty under $ 1200 a month. If I go on a waiting list for a income controled apartment it would take a year or better! I am trying to get a VA VASH voucher which I could get in a apartment now to find a VA housing rep to help me is imposibile now one wants to help and only excuse I get that I need to be living on the street for a year! If I did that I did that I would be dead in less than 6 months. At this moment I am in the VA Hospital since September 4 2018 I in for massive water build up on heart and body, lost 55 lbs while here. I need help getting housing!
My husband was a veteran of Viet Nam war. He lost his life at the hands of a very poor resident treating his disability. He was missed diagnosed and treated very wrongly with medications that suppressed the actual disease that was going on. We went to a private hospital and he was diagnosed correctly within 48 hours!! All diagnosis were service related. I am sorry for the veterans they should have way better health care comparable to what our congressmen receive. After all they gave everything not knowng they would ever return home. They should be respected and honored for their service not treated like they are a bother!
I don’t understand why I am listed as a non-veteran when I have spent over 20 years in the Navy and am now retired. I don’t currently have a claim but have had duty on two aircraft carriers and two air stations and with such noise I do have diminished hearing. How about a category of e.g., Naval Service (or other services) but no active claim as yet?
I have a condition (fiingers falling asleep and shoulder pains) noted in my medical records, have multiple complaints when i was in the military. I filed for a claim and was denied due to not service connected. I am still having problems but have not went back due to 75 mile travel to the VA in iowa. I believe that doing pushups with all of my issued gear caused the problem. I weighed 119 with all the gear on i weighed 220.
I have been waiting for my pension for 41 years— most of the time being lied to by government administrators. I will file once again— I do not want to wait a year before I know anything. To me it is a sham how the gov admins can treat us like trash and deny us for miniscule technicalities. I would like to know HOW the secretary is planning to modernize the system– and hopefully fire some of these proud sticks in the mud in order to move the system forward?
I am a Veteran. I am looking for someone I can get straight answers from on VA benefits. I am tired of being told one thing and then being told that I was told wrong. I’m tired of n be told by one group the VA owes me money or one specific VA, but then the answer always is “we can’t make them being told service officers don’t know anything.. I’m tired of being told each VA can make up its own travel pay rules. I can’t make them pay you”. I get conflicting answers on almost every subject concerning VA benefits, and have been for over 20 years. I want to find someone who can give me correct answers. I read the current regs and codes,keep up with news and changes. I am told my insurance should not be charged for non-service connected conditions at Priority 1-100% PT, but it is, and it says so in the VA code. I’m also told I can work at this % but I see Veterans brought up on charges by the VAOIG for working or even mowing their own lawn when rated 100% PT. I was in the fiduciary system and was told if I tried to get out I would lose my rating. I was not allowed any official mail or allowed to file for additional disabilities or clothing allowance. I have a lot of questions. I was just told to turn in a retro request for a dependent spouse that was never paid. I found the request in VA records that had been sent to me. The VA deleted that request and a current request I submitted for a new dependent claiming not to have received it. I don’t know why both were deleted. I don’t have the letter, but I spoke to someone at the VA before I submitted either one. Yes I have called the White House Hotline. Yes, I have contacted my elected representatives. None of these know how the VA thinks. I am tired of this run around. I want to talk with someone who has answers that mean something. I’ve been told wrong for too long.
I have read the previous comments and experienced many of the same problems and many more not listed. Someone has to have an answer besides “you haI have read the previous comments and experienced many of the same problems and many more not listed. Someone has to have an answer beside “you have a choice” and “thank you for your service”
My comment was nixed out due to a screwed up captcha code on YOUR part, thanks. Just proves how little we servicemen and women mean to all of you.
Well done – Standard Windows 10 pc & we get:
No available media for your player.
When will the VA put the resources needed to help those Vietnam veterans that were “sprayed and betrayed” with Agent Orange linked Parkinson’s Disease? I am a Vietnam veteran but am asking on behalf of my brother & others in nursing homes who pay the price of the contempt the military actually has for grunts. What does the data say about soldiers that were in the field during periods of Agent Orange spraying and Parkinson’s Disease 50 years later? Thanks
I am a 100% disabled Vietnam Veteran. It took 9 years to get my disability. I took 2 years to get on the Choice Program. I live over 40 miles from my VA medical center. I live in the country. I needed to have a bad tooth fixed. I have a dentist 45 miles from my residence who will take the Choice Program. I called VA in San Antonio to get approval to see local dentist. They said I had to come to San Antonio (280 miles round trip) to get a “consult” and then permission to see the local dentist. That is plain stupid. When will VA make the system logical and efficient and workable?
Why did I get turned down for a higher PTSD rating because “I WAS THINKING ABOUT GOING STORM CHASING” as part of their denial. What would the Appeals have done if they found out I had once smiled???????? Pathetic appeals evaluators or, they have been instructed to find the most stupid reasons to deny claims from upper management
Veteranhope.org/rose
What is the va plan to protect veteran from illegal state orders and help prevent homelessness and incarceration
What can be done with Jesse Brown VA Medical Center, and I assume others, to insure that Veterans that are eligible for Travel Reimbursement receive compensation?
I’ve tried everything that I can think of to get the travel pay I incurred, including contacting my Congressman’s Office but quite a few of my vouchers seem to end up in a dark hole.
Medical records are usually not correct. I have never had my range of motion tested in my doctor’s office but yet in my medical records it shows that I have full range of motion. My left wrist is fused so I DO NOT have any range of motion. Dr’s have so many patients they obviously have to our important notes, that we need to be correct to prove service connected issues. I read my notes and wish I felt as good as they say I am. They are not accurate. I was listed as a male several times, one being a pap test. They need to improve how notes are taken during your Dr appointments. It is very frustrating to report a health problem and it not be included in your medical records.
To: Jimmy Avalos, they are waiting for you to die.
Veteranhope.org/rose
What is the va plan to protect the veteran from illegal state orders and prevent risk of being incarcerated or becoming homeless
A question will the VA ever try again to take away my 30% UI I am 70/30 unemployable this is something Mr. Shulkin tried until he got a lot for feedback from many different DSO’s.
Thanks
John Dubpenrnell
Republic of South Vietnam
December 1970-1971
Just how do we view or signon, or whatever tomorrow Sept 27 1:30pm – 4:30pm how to tune in, sign on, or what channel? SKYPE? Whatever.
Why is it the RAMP process is taking so long. It is also showing that there are more not service connected responses for claims from Honest people than those that seem to stretch the truth a bit. Even after an exam completed by a PA and not a doctor that specializes in the claim they still deny claims. RAMP will say received and then sit there in that status until who knows when with nobody answering other than well they have 125 days and you just have to wait. If the case is truly being looked at the status should change instead of leaving the veterans in the dark about what is really happening. They also tend to miss many op-in for RAMP and then you have to reapply and then get no back date from when it was submitted originally.
The representatives at the VA hospitals are supposed to help but basically suggest things your not there for or they say thing like well be glad you have a retirement instead of nothing. They don’t bother looking through the paperwork you provide. Some of us have had to get lawyers to get paperwork filled out because of little to no help as to what forms are correct and which ones are not.
I have been having signon integrity problems of late having to continually recover my password. I’m a Management Consultant retired and will donate my time but with expenses to discover what is going on. If there is no other person having this problem then I would like to have the name of whoever has the authority to discover why I am being singled out for the passwords becoming corrupt. Gerald Glenn Fuller 7435 USS Boston (CAG-1) 1960-62 Camp Lejuene 1962-63. East Phoenix VA
I’m worried about having an emergency and going to a Hospital emergency room. What is the procedure? Will I be stuck with the bill. I’m afraid they won’t treat me for I don’t have private insurance.
I just turned 65 and registered for Medicaid. I did not get the supplement because I can not afford the monthly payments.
Two questions if I may, first and foremost, why wasn’t Retired Navy Commander John Wells present as a panelist? Second, is it because the entire group isn’t interested in hearing the “truth” about the issues of Agent Orange?
I can not get the Murrieta CA VA Clinic to order the High Dosage Flu Vaccine for me, they say it is not available. However, the VA MyHealthVet website of September 12, 2018 very specifically says that it is for VA patients 65 and above. This is the exact quote from the web site: “Veterans, who are 65 and over, should call or visit their local VA facility to inquire about receiving the HD flu vaccine.” The quote is found at the bottom of the page by pushing the 3d button for additional information. I am 77, and last year came down with the flu after receiving the standard flu shot. Can someone contact this clinic and advise them that the HD Vaccine is available, and let me know the outcome.
I served in the US Army june 1969-june 1971. I was Honorable discharged. Yet I am not allowed yo have a Veteran ID card, neither yo received medical treatment. Why not? Am I a Veteran or not?
Phone (redacted)
Where are the Doctors at the VA, Where are the mops at the VA, Where are the raises for the Vets stop any cap, Where are the people that make the decisions about the treatment that effects the Vets do they use the same advise, Where are is the help for the vet that needs help on maintaining his home (I am glad they are working to improve the life of a homeless vet) Why do you look more closely at the Vet from 9/11 on and not the Vietnam or Korea. Someone needs to look at the MYHEALTHYVET system or the people that give answers specially meds
These are only a few questions I have about my husband and the Care and attention he gets and should get Some do try to help others seem to make it hard
The words Thank You for Your Service are questioned in my mind every time it is mentioned at the VA
again it doesn’t sound as if most of them mean it just a phrase memorized
Veteran suicides are overwhelmingly taken over as a major issue for veterans and I would suggest having your duty expert Dr. Keita Franklin as one of your panelists.
I would like the secretary to eliminate the income cap for vets receiving basic medical services. I live in NJ, am on a pension of $26,000 a year and in this state that is almost the poverty line. I was finally approved for the most basic medical care and advised that my income was at the top of the threshold. My concern is when I begin to collect my SS in 4 years I will lose my VA medical?? The income requirement needs to be either eliminated or drastically increased to $100,000 or higher.
In addition, I was advised by a letter from the White House that President Trump signed the Veteran’s Choice program into law yet 6 months after the fact I was denied a specific blood test locally and advised I would have to drive 75 miles to the VA hospital?? My local VA outpatient does not perform the specific blood test my doctor requested??
Please stop giving bonuses to dept. heads for saving money! I feel that I am getting poor treatment because of this policy. I have had chronic pain since 2011 and get very little action / treatment for my problem. Am given old medicines from the fifties and sent on my way with no follow up. They just hope I go away with such poor treatment. It’s like starting all over when I go in for the pain. Bonuses should be given out by the quality of treatment given to the veteran. The drug list is sadly way out of date. One has to jump through hoops and over hurdles just to get a newer med if at all. This is just a dog and pony show.
WHY IS MY DOCTOR AT THE VA REQUIRED TO MOVE AROUND AND NOT AT THE CLINIC IN NIAGARA FALLS BUT SAY TWO TIMES A WEEK TO SERVE THE VETS THERE.
RUSSELL L. VeROST
(email redacted)
yahoo.com
WHERE??????
Register at the link below:
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i have registered but it says something about “no available
media for your player
can someone help me so i may watch and ask questions
tech support keeps saying the same thing and no is working
GUESS WHAT? IM GOING ON 6 AND AHALF YEARS ON MY PRESUMPTIVE DISEASE ON AGENT ORANGE. I HAVE THE ISCHEMIC HEART DISEASE. LES SEE HOW THE RAMP PROGRAM WORKS. IM NOT GETTING ANY YOUNGER.
Why can’t vets with less than 100% disability get. Dental treatment depending on their level of disability.For example could you get 60% off if that was your level of disability?
Why does the VA require veterans with 100% disability (they say not permanent) with Type 2 diabetes and compilated by Peripheral Neuropathy Disease and acute numbness in the feet and hands required by the VA to appear at QTC offices for check ups. Having gone to 4 specialists and multiple tests all said that these conditions DO NOT get better only WORSE. These are problems from Agent Orange and seeing as these conditions get worse why can’t the disability be changed to PERMANENT DISABILITY like it should be when no chance of getting better will happen?
Vet. Health care still is very restricted when it comes to pain management, irregardless of recent proclamations made by the VA administration. Prescribed for pain management by community choice physician, at VA I was told I would have to start over using tylenol, naprosyn, etc. Facilities fron Hawaii to Florida, the mantra is the same! Acess to proper pain management is denied, too slow, and VA says you have to have cancer or end of life condition. I’ve tried for 15 + years, always showing proof of condition, symptoms, and history. Never lied or deviated explaining problem.
When will the physicians there begin to treat pain management with more empathy and the way VA expounds Its pain management directives.
It reads okay until actually trying to see a VA physician
DANNY BOY and DES MOINES need added to list of Atmospheric nuclear tests. DANNY BOY was a Cratering test that dumped a lot of radioactive effluent into the air. If SEDAN is atmospheric, so is DANNY BOY. I can link you to the test footage on YouTube. I’m sure it’s an over site to leave it off the CFR list if tests. Unfortunately, it’s the Secretary that can add it… how do I get his attention on the matter without acting a fool?
Also: Johnston Island legitimately should be considered a presumptive location for herbicide Agent exposure. It was destroyed in 1978 but the qty that leaked out was still detectable in air samples in the 1990s and there is still TCDD in the fish to this day; anyone there would have been exposed via the vapors or eating the fish. If C-123 crew were exposed, Johnston Island Veterans were exposed. Again, how can we get the Secretary to consider this?
I represent 800 or so Veterans right now as their accredited attorney. I was an RVSR in VBA for several years. How can I get 15 minutes of the Secretary’s time to discuss this?
As a disabled veteran, I must use VA physicians and hospitals, or get there approval to use a civilian MD or hospital. As a senior citizen, I am able to go to any physician or hospital and medicare covers most of the cost. Why can’t veterans be given a veterans medicare card that covers a veterans medical costs in accordance with existing laws?
GREAT!! But where is it? Here’s a thought, (since I am disabled Thanks to Long Beach Veterans Hospital ), and can’t get there, give an email address other than the VAdotGov that nobody seems to be able to navigate, so the Questions of those who do not no where you are going to be, could ask. Bear
Navigating isn’t my problem, its having my account interrupted and having to get another password. Ever experience that? G G Fuller 1959-1965 enlisted USS Boston CAG-1 (asbestos in the air ducts) Camp Lejune NC Water Contamination. Bay of Pigs Ambassador rescue aborted. GITMO water shutdown 2nd Division 10th Reginment 4th Battalion Hdq Battery 155 Howitzer fire control NCO. and Missle Crisis period. Word from Cuban citizen working on base missles were never removed.
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Hello,
Dear VA Leadership,
I feel my claim is less of a priority to the agent orange claims so please address these before spending time on my issue.
I’ve spoken to many veterans that have had similar over-payment issues with the VA. What triggers an audit or the cause of someone being audited repeatedly? I have been audited repeatedly and have been providing the VA with documentation that I have been retired from the Army but my disability pay was deemed an over-payment and has been recouped for almost one year (November 2017 through November 2018). Why do audit requests take so long but taking veterans’ disability payments happen before the appeal process can be completed?
My medical care at the Cape Girardeau clinic has been great and I appreciate the top notch service the medical team provides there.
Frustrated and concerned,
OIF/OEF, Vet.
There must be some house cleaning of ancillary personnel, who have been “spoiled and indoctrinated the wrong way” by those who came before them – The Phila VA is overstaffed by many with poorly developed and learned attitudes, making their presence in the workplace less desirable – how about eating chicken and licking your fingers behind the front desk and in full view of the patients or being sure to get your coffee and donut break – they all do this – early in the clinic hours – bet many never miss the opportunity – this poor work ethic catches on like wildfire for every prospective employee and is self perpetuating – Also sometimes I listen to 3 anti suicide messages in the same phone call, waiting to speak with the nurse who takes Dr Sweeney”s medication calls – Marlton clinic – you wanna do something really big time at the VA – clean up your telephone system and courtesy – much wasted time and effort is built in
and finally, it appears as though the central appointment system is overworked with long hold times like over 5 minutes – also there is confusion when a patient caller is asked to accept, cancel or a third category that will leave one hanging forever and never gets attention anyway – try it – you’ll see what I mean exactly
MR> Al Squitieri MD FACS Colonel US Army Retired(redacted) – call me to discuss this further IO am a trained clinician with years of experience and do not often like what I see from many of the present ancillary staff workers
Will the VA issue VA insurance cards so we can go the any Doctor or Hospital and have them bill the VA for their services?
WHY is there differences in Post 9-11 veterans than previous veterans. Why do post 9-11 spouses recieved aid and attendance allowence for giving their husbands their daily medication and previous veterans spouses cannot receive this. My wife has to remind and hand me my medication daily or I would never take it. Is there a difference in veterans who are disabled. Just one example of this.
Fire the HR department and G. Burg, and D. Platko in Saginaw VA for gross mismanagement practices.
I am a vietnam era veteran, I filed for service connection disability in 2007, I am still waiting for the board of veterans appeal in Houston TX , and Washington DC, My Paper work has been back and forth remanded for additional development, I guest there waiting for me to die, I called houston and washington they say we are still working on it, YEA RIGHT, MUST BE THE DEEP STATE, SHADOW GOVERNMENT……………Going on 11 Years, Whats taking soooo Long???
someone should bring a hamster wheel, and ask if the va clones will sit in it for 30 years….
I am a vietnam era veteran, I filed for service connection disability in 2007, I am still waiting for the board of veterans appeal in Houston TX , and Washington DC, My Paper work has been back and forth remanded for additional development, I guest there waiting for me to die, I called houston and washington they say we are still working on it, YEA RIGHT, MUST BE THE DEEP STATE, SHADOW GOVERNMENT……………
Read statement of from Sept, 25 6:01 pm
Your majority of Contracting officers and CORs are unbelievably corrupt, anti-veteran and anti-caucasian. Bidding opportunities as a SDVOSB is one of the worst things you can do. You have contract officers that don’t follow FAR regulations and regularly violate the law and openly laugh about it. Time to fire these people you know who they are. If you can’t fire them change job descriptions and reposition them. It’s disgusting the way they act. The people that control the money, control the organization – they bring in the garbage start – with them first.
As a Veteran with a claim for compensation under review. I have learned that there is a backlog on decisions of up to eight months. I am getting ready to go to another funeral of a VET that lost hope and committed suicide. Tenth one this year and it is because of an antiquated process for claims, that has claims backlogged. I have become to the point on my claim that I have made a plan for myself. Before I finally decide to follow through I would like to help other VETS and by this I and several other VETS believe we have a process to smooth out the process and produce decisions in as little as a month.
We feel that if there was a claims office at each va (lowercase no respect to us none in return)hospital that would be able to collect all the needed forms, recommendations and medical records for the claimant to one packet taking a week. They would take this packet to three doctors within that facility to make their recommendation and sign off on a single form another week. The claims office would take this to the administrator for final commendation. The claims office would send the packet electronically to the review board. They would look over the packet approve or disapprove. If the claim is approved the packet is sent to compensation, three to five weeks to process. Should the packet be disapproved the local claims office would be advised of the reason, if there is something missing or needed the claims office can correct or add what is needed and send the completed packet with all the pages and recommendations, this way it will not take weeks to match it to other parts of the claim, five to seven weeks to process, and all decisions will be presented to the VET and with a recommendation on if it was feasible to summit an appeal at that time.
I have tried to get people to listen to this but I was treated like who are you to tell the va what they should do.
It is because the va is waiting out vets to reduce claims through suicide, it’s their way of saving money without have to do anything.
Is this another hoax? Where are the minorities in your advertisements. Waiting over 30 years for VA to do right by me as a black female disabled veteran. You hire persons that are not competent and yet can not give me compensation. You do not listen to persons who really need the health care and money, only those you want. This not “fair” treatment.
Where do you stand on DIC improvement Act of 2019. There has not been a increase in over 20 years.
I have watched over and over again who is sponsoring the legislation to increase DIC. It is always the democrats, why is this?
I will be changing the way I vote in the on coming elections.
Where do you stand on DIC improvement Act of 2019. There has not been a increase in over 20 years.
My husband was shot in both legs in Viet Nam. His death was from a service connected injury. It was not only devastating to loose him after 37 years of marriage but also financially devastating. I was his caretaker and worked part time in order to take him to doctor visits. I lost more than 60% of our income over night, with bills still having to be paid. Federal employee spouses receive 55% of their income. I would think our veterans families should receive at least the same.
I have watched over and over again who is sponsoring the legislation to increase DIC. It is always the democrats, why is this?
I will be changing the way I vote in the on coming elections.
Your online meeting is unacceptable. You need to go to every VA Center Nationwide and show us that you give a damn which is obvious you don’t.
I wish there was a like button. Obviously, 99% have issues about the VA Benefits rating in terms of issues covered and why it still is taking so long. I’ve been a civilian now for 26 years and nothing has changed in regards to these issues. Nothing.
I am in total agreement with you. I have also seen these same issues being tossed around for 28 years in the Benefits and Health Administration.
I am a 100% disabled veteran and would like to ask what I can do to make the VA better?
Hello
I received a clothing allowance from the NJ VA Prosthetics for 11 years.
I moved to the Augusta GA VA prosthetics and was denied in 2016 for clothing allowance because the woman stated that my back brace does not have medal in it and my knee braces have a metal bar but she refused to approve if.
It does not state in the Code of Federal Regulations which governs the VA that back braces have to have a metal bar nor does it state it for the knee brace
What about the blue water ships during Vietnam war?? HR-299? Agent orange?? Prostate cancer, Open heart surgery
Blood chemistry problems?
Are Perlmutter, Moskowitz, and Sherman, all Trump cronies, still calling the shots at the VA?
Why have you not reply to my letter I sent you a month ago this how we get treated from local va officials
Two time widow of two Air Force Veterans who died as a result of Agent Orange exposure in VIetnam. I worked for the Air Force as civil servant for 22 years (retired as DoD civilian after 38 total years of service) . Between my two husbands and myself, we served 66 combined years for our United States of America, the DoD, and the United States Air Force.
Upon marriage to my third spouse (a civilian), I was stripped of all my benefits except Dependent Indemnity Compensation (DIC) since I remarried after the age of 58. My military ID was confiscated, access to military installation, commissary, and Base Exchange privileges denied. None of which was due to any misconduct, only remarriage to a civilian.
I received a letter from VA stating I was authorized these privileges, however upon going to Fort Rucker in Enterprise.Alabama Customer Services to update my military ID card , I was informed DoD regulations outweigh VA regulations and my ID card was confiscated and was told I could reapply should my civilian husband die.
I supported my husbands careers in the Air Force, I worked as a dutiful and well respected civil servant for several government agencies, but primarily Air Force for 22 years. I have a clean, clear government history as did both of my veteran spouses.
I would appreciate your help to reinstate my military identification card, access to military installations, privileges to Base Exchanges and Commissary. My second spouse is interred at Barrancas National Cemetery on Pensacola Naval Air Station in Pensacola, Florida – a military installation).
Thank you in advance for your help and support.
Please address the agent orange cases that are not covered now ie. Persons who handled the agent orange on the ships during loading and storing.
Why are they not covered. What else do we have to present to prove that it was handled by veterans.
Veterans who handled during EOD clean up and containment of agent orange. Please advise been waiting and appealing for over a year. All medical Drs say agent orange exposure. Appeals say not covered. Still waiting on latest appeal suppose to be in front of board.
Thank You
Your announcement tells much about this meeting, but leaves out the most important piece of information… the location! We need to know where it’s being held, so we can attend this important event. I am a disabled US Army Veteran; Agent Orange health issues have ruined my life, yet the Atlanta VARO has denied my claim three times. Their complete lack of compassion and purposefully ignoring the preponderance of evidence I’ve given them is atrocious. It’s a prime example that the Atlanta VARO doesn’t really care about suffering Veterans. This needs to be brought to light and the Atlanta VARO personnel responsible should be at least reprimanded, if not fired.
What is the status of adding recently proven disabilities to Agent Orange exposure? I did see some movement on this under the previous director. High blood pressure and hypothyroidism. Us Vietnam Vets seem to have a higher instance of this than the general population.
On the edge .
I finally got a letter from VBA 8/14/ 2018
They requesting more info on me from my file .
It’s been years and my file is open book . Seems like another delay tactic.
Help me please ! They have everything they need.va file # (redacted)
I hired an attorney and we are still waiting for a hearing date for 2 years. His last letter to them when they requested if there was any new information on my claim was priceless. I wanted to frame it.
As we have stated twice before, there is no new evidence at this time. This continued delay is causing my client severe economic hardship. Please provide a hearing date for my client.
Still waiting. Been waiting since 2015 or 2016. Bad memory and can’t recall exactly without looking it up.
When will the VA have more veterans on their decision making, or better prepare non veterans staff to be equipped with some form of military experience or military contact when making decisions so they have all the required tools to make a decision with the veteran as a priority, and with the right information?
My husband filed a disability claim in 2014 while we lived in TN. We moved in Oct 2015 to CA
and my husband now receives care in Fresno. His medical care there has been excellent. However,
even though his claim for hearing loss was transferred and an appeal filed in 2016, we still have no
Resolution. In the last decision his hearing loss was attributed to his civilian job, it no apportionment
was given for lack of hearing protection as a helicopter crew chief in Vietnam where hearing
protection was not provided. This part of VA benefits is broken.
My Veteran now has hearing loss and is legally blind. As a result of these disabilities he is
Unable to perform many activities and my burden to care for him is greater.
Dorothy for Foulk
Hi. My husband is a 100 percent disabled veteran. On a previous home, where we lived, we were granted a COE for tax exemption purposes. When we moved to our new home, we were told by the VA that we could not transfer the COE tax exemption but I was told by others that it can be transferred. So…can the tax exemption be transferred?
why do I have to drive 90 miles just for a x-ray,when a local hospital is only 4 miles away? springfield il.also why isn’t every veteran given a state i.d. card allowing thm to go t any hospital clse to them, an th government pay the bill’s at a set rate for the v.a.? an when will the president quit lying to the public about how much he has done for the veterans,when every vet can tell you nothing has been change
Not just 1 hospital, 2 hospitals and several clinics that you can get an x-ray or MRI. But since the call the springfield clinic a valid VA facility within 45 miles that can only take blood, urine samples and prescribe meds, they force you to drive to Danville which is roughly a 4 hour turn around drive, this is ludicrous and ridiculous!!
Not to mention since they call springfield a valid VA facility within 45 miles, we are refused veterans choice for such services!! Veterans choice my (redacted)!!
I agree if i need to have a ct scan or xray or sick why do i have to drive 50 miles plus. Drive in conditions like in A blizzard . if ya dont feel good how can you ride this long to get in line to be seen hours later.
Ask him to add enough people to be able to answer the phones, Tired of talking to a machine / leaving amessage and No return calls.
It takes the Dentists over 2 years just to Implant three Teeth !
Why can’t vets get dental health unless you are 100%. We too like to laugh and smile but not with bad teeth.
I totally agree. Teeth are health issues. Shameful.
I don’t need implants. I’d just like to get my upper and lower dentures replaced because they are completely worn out. At this stage it DOES affect my overall health.
Why can’t you take your VA Service Connected Disability of 30% or more and turn it into the U.S. Military and automatically get your retirement with benefits. The U.S. Military has been using VASDR to determine Disability Ratings for decades. This is to be able to turn your original VA claim and just get a rubber stamp. It can go both ways because I have helped 12 Soldiers who got their VA rating and we were able to take their records and go back to the Military and they were able to get a Medically Retired. This meant that they were able to get Tri-Care for them and their family. If a Soldier who has Tri-Care they don’t have to go to the VA. It is a $12 copay. That is a true Choice program.
Can you please tell me how your co-pay is still only $12 dollars through Tri-Care. My co-pay keeps going up. Currently, it is $28 dollars. Thanks.
please define: reasonable burden of proof, 40 years after the fact it is all but impossible to remember names, units, flights,etc
On a positive note :
I have been going to VA Johnson city Tn. since 1984 I have been treated with Respect every time, I have wonderful DR.s
have received the best of care. I’m 90% disabled Combat Vet. Retired Military.
Adam Sanders 2/8/44
Actually, this is a BS session set up to pacify veterans and given the FALSE IMPRESSION that they given a (redacted). Then the directors of the local VARO will continue to (redacted) us over form their own benefit instead of ours.
I have been going around and around for a year now over a form 95 tort and am running out of life to get it taken care of for my family Mr Wilkie I will come to Washington if I have to and go before whoever I have to just let me know thank you
My husband, 21 year Army retired – was prescribed a power mobility chair by the VA in 2016, why are we STILL unable to receive a VBA van allowance so we can transport his chair with him?
Will there be access to this after the live broadcast?
Jessica B. I hope so since I can’t get a link to it!!??
Here is an alternate link https://www.va.gov/opa/live.asp
Will this be available after the live broadcast? I’ve been asked if those who cannot/do not register ahead of time and watch/listen live, can access this after the fact.
Please ask Secretary Wilkie when he will add new diseases to the Agent Orange presumptive list.
Yes and camp lejeune needs to be addresses instead of ignored
I share you concern. Worst case is those in Congress might figure we’re dying off and the longer they wait the costs will go down dramatically.
Hi – how do we join the town hall?
You can register here
https://www.webcaster4.com/Webcast/Page/89/27402
It’s giving me an error message that I do not have media player, PLEASE provide instructions for how to login via a MAC and / or iTunes or media player for a Mac device.
Thank you
I don’t have an answer for you and many others who experienced this issue, but I will the team look into it.
That said, we should have a recording of today’s event posted early next week.
same message on the media player which I have, I think we are being blocked from the inside
I registered for the town hall meeting last week and got the same error message about media player. I tried to log onto the site with MS Edge, Chrome, and Firefox. No luck, every downloaded and installed a different media player, still no luck. Hard to believe that I could not get linked in with a windows 10 system and the current MS media player.
Will you push notification of where the link will be so we can access the recording of the meeting?
Why aren’t women being represented? SWAN is a good group?
The appeals management center needs to be seriously drained. The VA will do anything to cover up their criminal nature.
My wife, who is an 9 year #Army #veteran on disability, found out the @DeptVetAffairs broken process allowed for a buyer to steal her #VA benefits and make her liable for a VA loan no longer in her name. @SecWilkie, @POTUS, please fix this.
Broken Link
why would you not have someone representing the Appeals Management Center ? why would you not have someone from the Board of Veteran Appeals too? seeing as these branches are separate and different and very important to vets ???
I agree you need to have representatives from the benefits office to talk about what Veterans are entitled to which is the best and fastest way to submit a new claim. Also how to apply for an increase in existing claims. Why it takes so long for VA to make a decision about your claim and what is the RAMP Program and how it works.
My belief if a Disabled Veterans is 100 percent definitely need to have Cosmetic Dentistry Dentist G4 implants people or Veterans called their Representative or Senators contract with the Veteran Affairs Committee passed a new Disabled Veterans is 100 percent get the Cosmetic Dentistry Dentist G4 implants for Free because their not work at a Veteran Center and don’t have a contract with the Veteran Affairs Administration because if a Veteran is Disabled Veterans is 100 percent don’t get the Cosmetic Dentistry Dentist G4 implants it’s definitely caused really bad Health Care also it’s cause really get bad gum disease.
There is more to it than that. When a person loses their teeth and cannot replace them, then they cannot chew their food properly and the food will not digest properly. It can cause all kinds of stomach and intestinal problems. But the VA will not do anything with dental unless the teeth were damaged in combat.
FREE? to you BUT taxpayers foot your bill.
You wanna look pretty, get a job and pay for your
COSMETIC dental work.
NONE OF US OLD OLD Vets can afford that kind of dental work
SO
get a life and keep your mouth shut so you will not show
you aged dental appendages.
FREE? nothing is free, someone pays for you to look pretty.
GET A LIFE. GET A JOB
Doc RIo,
I am old and I act my age, you should do the same.
with bad teeth and still able to maintain my weight.
Erasmo,
You are so disrespectful to the men and women that have served this nation. A lot of the veterans you’re addressing are up in age and have worked during their lifetime. You should show respect! You never know what your fate is in this world. Judging a person, based on ignorance, will only come back to bite you in the azz!
I am a veteran of Korea and Vietnam. three years in the U.S.M.C. and 9 years U.S.Army I am 20% disabled. I lost a tooth while serving in Vietnam, have 9 fillings in my mouth from FT. Benning, Ga. I believe all veterans should have dental care. My teeth is a part om my health. The VA. put a 3 piece bridge in when i was discharged in 1967. it lasted 20 years. I have had 2 put in sense that one failed. last one had to be a 4 piece because tooth failed beneath the bridge. I had to pay for all them and I am 82 years old on a fixed income and can not get any dental care from the VA and can not afford any. Hope i don’t have a major failure of the bridge.
The VA Dental Dept. in Jackson has the equipment to do Special implant Oral Surgery in storage but not in use because they do not have a oral surgeon. My Dentist got me into U.M.M.C. to put implants on my lower jaw because I was a perfect candidate. Why can’t the VA get an Oral Surgeon on staff at Jackson because it is positively needed.
dental Implants
Will. We ever get dental I am a Korean vet can not afford dental
FREE? to you BUT taxpayers foot your bill.
You wanna look pretty, get a job and pay for your
COSMETIC dental work.
NONE OF US OLD OLD Vets can afford that kind of dental work
SO
get a life and keep your mouth shut so you will not show
you aged dental appendages.
FREE? nothing is free, someone pays for you to look pretty.
GET A LIFE. GET A JOB
Doc RIo,
I am old and I act my age, you should do the same.
with bad teeth and still able to maintain my weight.
What are you trying to say
Good question Rick that only makes good sense considering since Trump signed the choice program into law. I’ve tried to work with this program a couple of times and continually have problems with unqualified people use the wrong forms or talk to doctors who don’t have a stick in the wood pile.
Thanks Russ
Benefits need to be expanded to all veterans who served in the Vietnam conflict. Please call your representative and encourage them to vote YES on extending benefits as soon as you can. Apparently the current top official at the VA doesn’t agree with this passage. Why President Trump or whoever appointed him to head up then VA didn’t bother to ask how he felt about this issue is beyond any normal, rational thinking person.
I was told at the benton harbor mi va they no longer have the choice program. It was called community something is what battle creek mi told me who the heck is telling the truth
My question is Why did Congress change the Tricare co-pay from $12 per visit to $20 dollars? Why am I having to pay more for a emergency hospital visit of $160 dollars and $75 dollars? Where is the respect for veterans? Why did we allow our elected officials do this to us? If we can seek outside medical service, because the VA is so back logged and the fact that the President stated that in his speeches and promises to Veterans… Then why are we paying so much more or at all? Please eliminate the cost for veterans.
I am just curious do va hospitals still give bonuses to Doctors who turn down veterans dissability claims?
YES they do.
Common practice in VA and civilian insurance.
My claim going on 26 yrs had a video hearing yesterday my DAV said could up to 3 yrs before i get an answer. It BS. Gulf war illness
I have tried to register and cannot log in, it says I don’;t have the required media player, but I have all kinds of media player apps on a MAC. Please advise a help desk # or email contact.
Same here.
VA screws up EVERYTHING it touches.
1. What action can or is being done to fix the broken Fully Developed Claim-FDC process at CW BILL YOUNG VA Bay Pines VARO?
2. What action can or is being taken to hold VA raters accountable to the Veterans who they game the rating system against?
3. Why are the VA raters allowed to drag out FDC to a year or two years after all documentation has been submitted?
4. Why are VA raters who are more often than not, below qualifications and merit to challenge a MD or PHD Physician on a DBQ and Medical Opinion Letter (often against CFRs) when the VA raters are at the Nurse Practitioner – NP or PA level or below?
5. Why are VA reps (VA employees) given bonuses to turn Veterans away on C & Ps (merit bonuses are based on this) per union contracts and implicit polices.
6. What is the VA doing to incorporate more Veterans into the under-represented management level of the VA vs. at the over-represented labor level. This is clearly by design to create a dis-enfranchisement of Veterans in the decision level of the processes?
7. Can the VA be given the authority to require ALL services (to include USCG) to provide electronic health file sharing and participate in the IPEDS/PEDS process?
8. Can the VA be down sized to eliminate positions at the VA in exchange for TRICARE coverage for ALL veterans? The monies saved on ineffective care would more than cover Veterans and provide greater self-direction on medical care without the deadly delays of VA Death panels while creating a surplus by monies saved from being wasted on the costly and inadequate VA healthcare budget.
9. Can a study be conducted to explore the many advantages of the VA be downsized to provide C & P ratings equated to the same as Social Security recognized disabilities and thus eliminate the need for costly VA rater employees whose ONLY purpose is to block Veterans from getting C & P pensions? The monies saved would more than cover pensions and still have a surplus remaining.
Just another barrier to ad to dissability claim backlogs. Lets string out C&P as long as possible for no real good reason other than greedy doctors and higher ups wanting more for nothing. What a giant waste of time and money. They all should be ashamed of themselves. Sometimes you just need to gut the house and start from scratch. Also Matthew Hastings Haynie needs to be our new director of the va. You hit every point on the head. Way to go. I would vote for you. Go get um bull dog and dont stop until you at least make a dent.
Sorry, but I can’t get into this session. can anyone help??
Why was I invited to watch this program? If you really wanted to get information out and engage me, you would have sent the invitation more than 18 minutes prior to the event. That said this is on par with my experience since I received the title “disabled vet.”
It appears their townhall works about as well as the VA in general does.
Not at ll….