Paul Lawrence, Ph.D., was sworn in as VA’s new Under Secretary for Benefits on June 12.
As under secretary, he will oversee and lead the Veterans Benefits Administration in administering VA’s programs that provide financial and other forms of assistance to Veterans, their dependents and survivors
“I am honored and humbled to be able to help serve our nation’s Veterans,” Lawrence said. “We are indebted to them for their sacrifices, and owe them nothing less than to ensure they get the benefits they have earned.”
Growing up in a military family, Lawrence learned early the honor and respect due to our nation’s Veterans. He served in the U.S. Army, where the former captain graduated from the Airborne School.
His father was a combat Veteran, who served in Korea and Vietnam and is buried in Arlington National Cemetery.
“My dad was incredibly proud of his service and the men and women he served with. I can best honor his memory by working as hard for our Veterans as he would expect,” Lawrence said.
Lawrence has 30 years of experience working closely with federal leaders as a senior management consultant. Prior to his confirmation, he served as vice president at Kaiser Associates.
Although it is early in his tenure, Lawrence has already identified his top three priorities for driving VBA forward:
- Provide Veterans with the benefits they’ve earned in a manner that honors their service
- Ensure we’re strong fiscal stewards of the money entrusted to us while aggressively advocating on behalf of Veterans
- Foster a culture of collaboration
“There have been a number of improvements in recent years in way we deliver benefits to Veterans,” he said. “I look forward to working with our VBA team, the Board of Veterans’ Appeals, Veterans service organizations and congressional representatives to ensure we continue the forward momentum. We must never forget that we are here to serve Veterans and their families.”
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I would like a rule change for eligibility. I am a retired Air Force member, but am told I do not qualify for the VA because I make too much money. I am fully retired. My income is my military (E-7) retirement, and mine and my wife’s social security. I do not have a military connected disability. Therefore, I am told I make too much money. This is ridiculous. I served my country for 21 years, but am being denied benefits.
I need help in closing on my much needed home will explain too a person.
every time i call the va , i can,t talk to anyone to ask them a question. and they say call 911, well i can,t call 911 , because i have no other insurance but the va., i can,t afford to go to the hospital.
Congratulations and good luck. As you meet your staff be wary of those that toe the old line. Working together we can create a kinder, gentler VA. We are all in this together, our Veterans are our priority. Lets’ make it WORK.
Congratulations and good luck. As you meet your staff be ever cautious of those that toe the old line. Lets’ make the VA a kinder, gentler place with the Veteran in mind. There is no need to be adversaries when we can work together and make IT WORK.
My husband has been trying for almost 40 years to get help through the VA. First they told him it wasn’t service related, then they told him he didn’t have diabetes even though our doctor said he did. Now the last time they said his DD214 was not signed,so what do you do next? He served in Vietnam during agent orange and can’t get no help. We went agent at VA and then tried DAV and neither one could do anything.
Veteran’s Benefits to which I am entitled. Hmmm. Let me see. Oh yeah, I’m supposed to be able to get a VA home loan. I’ve been DENIED. The first time I tried to get it the bank I was going through was well, I have nothing nice to say about them. I told them, straight home loan, forget the VA, they still made me jump through hoops. Idiots. I got tired of their ineptitude and refinanced through my credit union. Tried again for the VA loan. Know what I was told?? You got it, I was DENIED again, only this time it was because i had “over-improved” the property. Really??? There’s no such thing. I was denied because I’m a woman veteran. I’ve never heard of a male veteran being denied, let alone because HE over-improved his property. The VA is very sexist and chauvinistic.
It’s about time. 0bama didn’t care about our veterans. Just remember what he said about the people who choose serve and knowing what they were getting into. Yet he gave money away like candy. He was a joke.
I have been rated 90%disabled by the VA since 2015 and now have come down with Parkinson’s Disease. I was given 30% disability for this but not toward my total disability (?) all due to agent orange. I served in Viet Nam 1969-70, in combat, not looking for special treatment just fair treatment.
I have been at 90 % disability for 3 years and now have come down with Parkinson’s and given 30 % disability for this but not enough to grant 10% to give me the 100 % disability. they have not been clear as to why the Parkinson’s Disease isn’t satisfying that need. my doctors seen to be surprised at the Cincinnati V.A. and I am frustrated at them more than surprised. all because of agent orange and my Viet Nam experience, not asking for special treatment, just fair treatment.
I have been receiving compensation fo some time for coranary disease, diabetes and ptsd. I have started having problems with my teeth falling out. The VA had me evaluated and agreed I had gum disease, but would not connected to my diabetes. Instead the called it not service connected. A few years earlier I as sent for a sleep study at the VA hospital in Salisbury. They determined that I had sleep apnea. They provided the equipment I needed but did not connect to my diabetes or any other problem. There is medical research that has established a connection between diabetes and both gum disease and sleep apnea. Basically either can cause the other, but since my diabetes preceded the other problems by years, it’s obvious what caused what. I feel,that many doctors within the VA clinics would like to help with problems like mine, but are afraid or unable to.
I wrote a comment several days ago but I don’t see it in the blogs. Maybe it was so bad they didn’t want to post it. I am like thousands being thrown under the table and waiting for my claim that I sent in 2012. Why so late, I have been having problems throughout my whole life since Nam. I never heard of AGENT ORANGE until someone had mentioned it. My doctors didn’t no how agent orange worked on people. My rheumatologist was the only Doctor that knew of this and pointed out my problems. Everything came together , I was exposed to the A.O. A marine buddy of mine is all messed up because of this and it’s so sad. I served my country and now they are not taking care of their soldiers. They finally sent me my Purple Heart after forty seven years!!! Is it going to take that long to receive my claim.. There is so much to say but you know what I’m talking about. Thank you for your time.
Mr. Caldwell,
There is no record of a previous comment. If I had to guess, it was the Captcha code — a necessary evil to protect against spammers and other issues.
I moderate nearly all comments and I never delete any without first contact the submitter and providing a valid reason. That’s happened less than a dozen times in the last five years.
I see everyone here is Happy! So here comes another Bureaucrat, he will make promises that will never be kept, why? Because he nor anyone else has the Balls to deal with SEIU, the union every VA person belongs to that has anything to do with your claim. Can’t be fired, can’t be force to do anything but draw overtime to write Pre-Canned denials. Ever notice how much cut and paste is used in your SOC and the supposed exam by the C & P dope?
I’m 11 years into a claim that has been remanded by a VA Law Judge for errors, I mean pages of errors, denied again at the Board based on the dope that did the C&P, he did even get the cause right, errors every where. No one reads your claim or evidence, just deny, looks like they spent along time to get to that conclusion, but in fact just cut and paste no work on their side at all. Mr, President the VA is still Fucked Up!
– I think RAMP will just speed up your denial.
You have nailed it. The president can make all the secretarial appointments he wants but nothing is going to change. Every communication I have received from the VA appears to be some kind of a form letter that serves little or no purpose. I’d like to see some kind of proof that anyone of them can have a thought and then be able to express it in their own words.
I am a widow of a veteran who passed away from a service related condition ( ALS). He served 22 years and I was with him for all of it. As a military spouse I rarely was treated as a second class person. It seems the VA thinks of widows as that. I say this because as a widow I can’t access E-benefits and see my payments and education benefits online. I have called numerous times and been told that widows are not allowed online access. The deceased spouse record is disabled so that is the reason given why I can’t access it. When I call to get a copy of my DIC statement I am told to go online. When I explain I can’t they say they can’t send me a statement. I have to go online. I have worked in technology designing systems for 25 years and this is ridiculous that you can’t fix this. Do we not rate the same as spouses of living members of service?
I am getting 80% for icschemic heart disease and bladder cancer when i was stationed at camplejune ,plus melanoma, high blood pressure, I have to wear diapers all the time, cant control my urine. I was denied bladder cancer 3 times from vietnam and I cant understand why even though it was not presumtion . some of the chemicals found at lejune was used in agent orange in vietnam. they should at least make that presumtion if you served in both locations
You are on target. With all med records being electronic now, this should be doable. However, the military service may not have the relevent medical records or the military medical record was incomplete, as was my case. I had to gather 30 year old medical records from a civilian hospital. Your suggestion is good, but it should include a process whereby after you leave the Service the VA tells you if you are entitled to disability. Then, if the VA says no, but you actually do have an issue then you can submit a packet for it, as you do today.
I have submitted my comment in accordance with the rules and can readily see the reason for the large volumes of expletives!!
I really hope this guy can get something done with expediting the process when a claim is submitted. I have started a claim request three times over the last 6 years and each time, the entity I asked for assistance has done nothing for me and when I looked into submitting my claim without their help….I was lost. Use to be in the 80s and 90s that a man could get the forms from the VA and fill them out, submit them…and then wait. Yes, it took a long time, but eventually, you got to see a doctor, who reviewed your claim and examined you and submitted his report based on my current health and the health problems or injuries I experienced during my 14 years of service. Now, with the ‘automated’ system….and the promise of the time being shortened, the process is hard to understand causing things to become confusing. The first claim I submitted on the automated system was a waste of time, because during the next year, while I was waiting back from the VA…I learned that the claim was closed out….and it was my fault?!?!
If anyone can provide help in dancing through the automated system to get a claim through the gauntlet….I would be very appreciative.
An army doc put. 5 clots in my lung in 1981, 1 year later they put me out with 40%, the VA took 10% away when I switched to the VA, it then took me 22 years to get 100%, with 70% combat related from Nam and because I switched to the VA, I lost 2/3 of my military retirement.
I am an oif veteran US Army I was with the 13b un
What up with this F’d up CAPTCHA code, everytime I type a full long message, the CAPTCHA code says error. BS
Yeah I was denied for hearing loss. As a Vietnam vet. my major mos was Lt. equipment engineer. For 9 months I repaired maintained and operated generators. Any one who owns a portable gen. you know what it sounds like. Denied my claim, but fitted me with hearing aids. Even though they say all 3 of my mos could cause hearing loss ????????????????/
I wonder what the possibility of directly speaking with Dr. Lawrence would be? I wonder if he is a fair man? I wonder if he cares enough about Vets to step in and right wrongs? I had a truly exceptional ENT doctor who talked me into letting her biopsy a lump on my neck, which had been there (and harmless) for over 30 years. Good doctor: She just wanted to make sure that it wasn’t malignant. I had a freak reaction to the fine needle biopsy that left me crippled, unable to work, unable to take on normal daily activities and on heavy-duty narcotics. The VA has a compassionate remedy, if you will, for cases like mine that, for unforeseeable reasons, damage the Veteran. It’s from Title 38, Section 1151. It states that “if a reasonable healthcare provider deems that the outcome was unforeseeable…” the veteran may be compensated. This doctor wrote a letter on my behalf, stating that the outcome was unforeseeable.” My VA Pain Management Dr. wrote one as well. A non-VA doctor wrote a letter, too. The VA sent my claim to a department head who denied my case. I appealed and they sent my appeal to be reviewed by the first doctor’s underling. The VA flat out ignored all of my evidence (and there was a good deal of evidence). I’m a retired VA employee and the way they treated me was nothing short of shameful. No Veteran should be treated with such underhanded tactics. So, I ask: Is Dr. Lawrence an honorable man?
Not sure anyone can do anything with the overwhelming VA system. Veterans are dying at the heads of the system due to poor health care and very extreme long processing times for veterans compensation. I have been waiting since July 1992 due to a CUE Claim! The VA does not ever want to do the right thing by all Veterans. The discriminate against those who are outspoken regarding the system. Will never trust them!
Hello Doctor,
I’m 90% disabled and getting worst. I can’t stand, sit, or walk without holding on to something. I have applied for None employability twice, was turned down twice. I was told I could do Menial Labor, which brings me to this, What kind of work can I do Ife tried to get a Jobs but they would not hire me, Nobody wants to hire a Vietnam Vet that’s disabled and 72 years of age. I spent a little over 20 years in the United States Army serving our country, I feel after all the Promises that my country made me if I stayed, has now let me down.
Thank you
Richard F. Foster
SFC. US. Army
Medically Retired.
THIS IS THE LAST TIME I WILL TRY TO POST ON THIS SHIT SIGHT!! I KEEP ON GETTING REJECTED WE FU!!!!
What I have been trying to say is that the VA started after WW1 as Vet.’s and their families camped out across the White House. The VA was started as an advocate group for vet.’s rights, and was doing OK until Korea then went down and became more of a part of the Government than HELP for the Vet. Then Vietnam, Agent Orange, VA took 20+ years to just say it has health risks including cancer, like brain cancer. I think all surviving family members and all in danger should give process of suit to the VA and the US Government as a hole. I should also note that I have an issue (GWS) Golf War Syn.
The VA took 20 years to say it maybe real. The World Health Organization did a 20 year study on us and said “YES” it is real. So which do you believe the World Health Organization or the politically motivated VA?
MY THE WAY FNG Welcome Hope You Enjoy Your $3 Fig. Say.
YOU ALL HAVE TO PROVE YOURSELVES TO US
ITS NOT YOUR FAULT JUST TIRED OF THE B.S.
Filed in late 2017 and haven’t heard a peep in 5 months. I guess even after you retire it is : hurry up and wait.
After Getting my exposure counseling form DR Mohammad on Jan 23 2018 was inform due to amount of exposure I got in the service that the radiology testing should only be done on me in life threatening condition because they would damage me even more and it can put more it my body I have call it microwave radiation but maybe you would like to Call it what the Defense Intelligence Agency calls it electromagnet radiation from the office of the Surgeon General this is because the Site that this happen at was also an alternate CRC and had the Double the amount of single sideband radios that put out some the lower range of frequencies .So with the this report start with the blood I do believe you can check my WBC test going high if I read this right that is Moderate Neutrophilia and the Coagulation is there also and keep going on the report in it also the bone marrow And that would be the swollen joints on item 11 on ets exam dated 05 OCT 1982 then moving to the Cardiovascular to start the hypertension that is service connected that was put in my dod medical two weeks after the microwave eye on 18 Dec 1981 and as the report states that promote earlier onset of cardiovascular disease and if will see I have the most the symptoms of radio-wave disease as pre this report these are the most of the same as central nervous system and as DR Mohammad had said I did check and after Every CT scan that was done on me my glucose increased in my blood and had they had increase my meds is a sign of the adrenal gland could affecting my metabolism to my diabetes and I had to have Miranda from Clarksburg VA Directors office call Columbus Oh VA to find out what symptoms I was having when I was put on Rabeprazole and it was not gerd but alteration of gastric juices symptoms is also a side effect and you add the tinnitus that is service connected and a side effect of this and on 27 JUN 2016 the primary care VA Doctor put in my file the he highly Suspect that Vascular readings are do to massive doses of microwave radiation and the aneurysms on aorta artery that is also a side effect of this exposure then you look at the SAFETY PRECAUTIONSD AND STASARDS there is no way they were being followed not when was told that not even to wear dog tags on site and was not giving any protection gear or equipment to monitor the exposure we were getting this is per DST-1810S-074-76 .Then if you look at the Navy report MF012.524.015-0004b in My medical files have B items 3,6,and 16 and under C items 2 and 3 and under F items 2,4,7,9,10 and 11 and under H items 1 and 4 not understanding the others under this section under I 1 and 2 and under L item 4 and under M items 4,5,6 and 7 If you look in the medical file you will see these and the only the Army check was the microwave eye exam and over look the other two sign of the exposure that were on my ets exam that did call the Radiologist were I ets out of at 520-533-2555 and confirmed it since he use both type of radiation on daily bases and this is do to the amount I was exposed to in the Army and with these report Shows the know about it well before it happen and did not follow precautions
I AM A 50% DISABLED VIETNAM VET AND HAVE A HIP THAT NEEDS TO BE RE-BUILT. I WAS SCEDULED TO HAVE MY SURGERY AT BAYPINES HOSPITAL IN BAYPINES, FLORIDA IN APRIL OF THIS YEAR. THEY CANCELLED MY SURGERY BECAUSE OF EXCESS BLOOD IN MY URINE. I WAS TOLD BY THE NURSES AT CAPE CORAL THAT I HAD A URINARY TRAC INFECTION AND PUT ME ON ANTIBIOTICS FOR A WEEK AND IT DIDN’T HELP ANY AT ALL ! SO THEY DECIDED TO DO AN XRAY AND A URINE DROP ON ME AND FOUND A KIDNEY STONE AND DECIDED TO DO SURGERY AND BLAST IT OUT. AFTER ABOUT A MONTH THE DOCTOR CLEARED ME FOR SURGERY ON MY HIP. AFTER I WAS CLEARED I TALKED TO ORTHOPEDICS IN BAY PINES FLORIDA THEY ARE TELLING ME I HAVE TO WAIT FOR AN OPENING TO HAVE MY SURGERY IN SEPTEMBER OR OCTOBER BECAUSE OF A WAITING LIST. HOW MANY OF THOSE OTHER VETS HAVE A 50% DISABILITY OR WORSE ? I SHOULD BE AHEAD OF THOSE WITHOUT A DISABILITY, CAN YOU HELP ME ? I CAN HARDLY WALK WITHOUT SEVERE PAIN !
IAM a 17 year Navy veteran 3 honorable discharges I got to the Butler VA clinic these people and doctors are great. Now for the VBA , this is a big let down my claim is a year old I was told that it may take two years. IAM 80 percent service connected, I have severe nerve damage in both legs due to botched surgery from the Navy and VA and lower spine fusion, I’m waiting on a claim for severe depression, anxiety I see sicologist twice a month, they can’t believe the hassle that our veterans go through, hopefully they will more in the future Thank you. thanks
Couldn’t post comment. Problem with capcha code. Being censored?
I would like to suggest that the VA insurance included
Silver Sneakers. It is a discount from Health Clubs.
For those who take care for veterans there is a big need to keep healthy to care for your partner. All other insurance companies carry this benefit. I’m told I’d have to have an Act of Congress to get this approved. Please help our seniors so they can continue to help our veterans.
I represent several vets. I live in a retirement community of 289 homes. Many vets, even WWII, Korea and Vietnam. VA policy distinguishes between single family home and condos to the detriment of vets trying to buy or refinance a condo. HOA’s did have some policies that were contrary to VA rules. We have changed our Declaration of Protective Restrictions to accommodate. I have been in very bureaucratic discussions with the Phoenix Office for VA loans for about two years. It would be useful for someone at a very high level to examine the policies and to look at our situation in particular.
Honorably retired Regular Army vet of 22 years . 90% disabled awaiting compensation! I keep getting an error code on my two previous post. So good luck! remember “Stay in for the BENEFITS”
I think it is a shame that spouses who stayed with their military member through retirement do not qualify for benefits if they divorce. This archaic rule needs to be looked at and changed. Divorce does not change the fact that they supported their military member for 20 to 30 years.
the under secratary says he is ready to give the veterans what the deserve well i filed my claim and it was denied and they say my unempoyability claim was denied because i didn’t look for gainful employment they didn’t bother to look at my social security work record or concider my injuries either. and then knowing what hell i went threw have the nurve to say my PTSD isn’t service connected. i was singned up for just a 2 yesr soilder i was going carrer and because of a unjust sargent i was denied my honner, carrer, family legacy as an american soilder. instead i was granted a discharge and spent the rest of my life dealing with the after effects call sheer hell and your local beurocrats want to denie me what i deserve.
Moderation of my post?
As a Vietnam era Marine Corp Vet, (66-67) I spent over a year drinking toxic water at Camp Lejuene, then went to Vietnam to stomp around in Agent Orange, and all the while I was a radio telegraph operator (4 years) constantly exposed to EMF radiation, which I feel helped trigger my Colon Cancer (no family history) (operation, 6 weeks of radiation, 55 weeks of chemo), I am now appealing my recent claim which only mentioned Agent Orange as a cause for my cancer, so with this mention of toxic water, and EMF exposure, maybe someone will see the Colon Cancer was a result of these multiple exposures. Also had a stroke 4 years ago. Why isn’t Colon Cancer on any list? The Colon is very close by all the other areas that are on the list, I.e. prostrate, kidney, etc.! I’m 73 now so maybe I’ll die by the time it is included, too late!
I am a recent widow of a 100% service connected veteran.
My husband required 100% care he was c4-6 quadriplegic. I had a career that I gave up to care for him full time. I was given side and attendance. Which helped with the income I gave up to be a caregiver.
After his passing I was given 1500 a month as survivors benefit.
30 years of my life caring for our veteran.
Trying to get back into the workforce has been difficult at my age. How can our government justify the sacrifice that was made to only be given a small amount to survive on. After bills. And I have no credit cards outstanding. Just daily living. I am left with 200 dollars to put food in my cupboards and gas and clothing. There is no going anywhere as the money doesn’t go far.
This is an extremely hardship. This is how the USA takes care of their own.
While law makes have it good! Tell me what is a justifiable amount you need to live on! This is a slap in the face!
Thank you USA for your generosity to those who gave so much! This is disgraceful!
Pamela Mosby
“I hope that changes will be made to expedite claims and help the Veterans that sacrificed so much for so few that appreciate them” ! And I call Donald Trump;;;”Donald Chump” ! “It is hard to consider him our Commander” “Go back to Real Estate” Dork ! The only thing Donald Chump is good at; Is running his yapper ! He will go down in History as the most embarrassing President. “I feel ashamed sometimes when he so inept representing the USA to other countries. U and I both know that they are laughing behind the scenes “Just when you thought Bush Jr. was inept”; Guess what ; I liked him better than Donald Chump ! Nixon did better on some things ! “I liked Ronny” “I liked Carter”; “I liked slick Willy”;;
“Who would not want their (redacted) by an intern” ? (Be honest) “I liked George Bush Senior” (Kinda) “Better than his bumbling Son” ! “i DO NOT FOLLOW ALL POLITICS; AND I AM NAIVE ON THE IN OUTS; HOWEVER; I KNOW I DON’T LIKE CHUMP 1
Mr. Soderberg,
Children often use VAntage Point to research their school projects regarding Veterans. For that reason, I have redacted a small portion of your comment.
This is all so sad to see so many people go without help. My husband’s combined service connected now amount to 360%. He is now just recently given 100% P&T for his agent orange cancer alone. It was a very long haul and a very long fight. I learned everything I could about the VA system and benefits. There are many of them out there but you won’t be told you must find these on your own. Don’t rely totally on VA reps inside or outside the VA. We are fortunate to live in Ct. where this VA medical system is amazing. My husband has qualified wonderful Drs. who go the extra mile for him wish all VA Medical centers were the same. I have fought since 1971 and finally almost 50 years later the VA has pulled it’s head out of it’s butt to finally do something for Vets. It was a hell of a lot WORSE all those years ago. All that time wasted just fighting for what is owed. But the advent of the internet has allowed anyone the ability to find the information needed to arm yourself for the fight with information that was not previously available. GOOD LUCK.
I tried filing claims for compensation. The doctors say I qualify and they just have to mark it and I will have it but never works that way. So hopefully something will be done with this and will help other people that do get their benefits too. I know a lot of people that are having troubles with getting disability or compensation for something that happened while they were in. I do get good help at the VA I go to but still should get something for what happened to me. Thanks
That’s wonderful how he says how he is going to help veterans and I like that. Now, let’s anti -up and go back 37 years and take care of my claims instead of dodging bullet after bullet after bullet. Let’s get down and get some skin in the game. Don’t te!! Me that you love me, show me. They honor us with their lips, but their hearts are far from us!
It’s sort of like going to Taco Bell, ordering a taco and they give you one with no meat in it.
How many broken promises? A lot, look at how many are committing suicide and you can see what they are doing and what they are going to do. Right?
So are the people at the Veterans beinifits Administration still getting a bomus of $10,000.00 based on the number of veterans that die with out collecting their rightful benifites!!!!!!
I am 90% and I do not start getting my pay until they take back my separation pay from 25 years ago. How is that right. They go back to the day you filed in pay but go back to your end tour of service date for money due them. Not right.
You serve your country ,but they let you down in the end!!!!
Veterans in the Philippines are served in the ONLY VA facility outside of the US. Why can’t this facility VA/VARO(358) be treated just like any other VA facility to include travel and care offered. We were recently forced into the Foreign Medical Program that has become a disaster. Hospitals are dropping out because both the FMP and Tricare insist on sending checks. Not only that the checks are being sent to the veteran vs. the provider. It is a nightmare. Sadly with both the FMP and Tricare in disarray once again veterans are shouldering both the costs and repercussions of improper actions. What can we do?
You realize of course no one accepts “CHOICE”. Because the government does not pay their bills. In Covington Georgia I’m unable to find anyone who accepts choice. No one, within a 25 mile radius. So no one is telling president Trump the truth about choice. Sounds great in speechesn, but does not function.
My father, William F Wiley, retired SMGT US Air Force , passed away in May 2018. He was an extremely proud man and never thought of himself first. When he became sick in April of 2017 with a Glioblastoma brain tumor he started thing about his wife and what he could do to assist her, she is suffering of dementia and stenosis of the heart. He asked me to try to make a case with his illness to the VA so possibly receive additional compensation help support his wife, my mother. Appointments were made for hearing tests which may have been able to raise his disability from 40 to 55% however when they called for his appointment he was unable to attend because he was bedridden, his appointments were canceled. He served in Dnang in 1963 for a tour longer 180 days, exposed to the defoliant dripping while he repaired or refueled air craft. He has had numerous cancer cells burned off his arms and face as well chemo cream used on his face until it bled. He had cancer cut from his arm but no doctor would commit to the glioblastoma which h killed him to be Agent Orange related therefore he received no Aid and Assistance and since he didn’t receive any nor can his wife, my mother. We are managing but the VA is in the wrong accordingly to me and my deceased father. He was always proud, too proud to ask for assistance for him but asked me to proceed when he found out he would be leaving his wife of 64 years 11 months. I will continue to try to get Aid and Assistance for mom.
Hello Dr.Lawrence, I am a disabled veteran and also retired medically from the state job of 22yrs. I can no longer work and currently appealing the rating decision for an increase for my disabilities. Needless to say, I have been denied. I am about to receive SSI and SSDI. I am currently homeless and living in my car. It would be a very important gesture and showing that you and your office are serious about doing the right thing and actually help the people who volunteered to protect and serve this great country of ours. Taking care of our military and their families should be first and foremost. Homelessness should not be an issue for active service men&women nor veterans. Providing timely treatment and financial benefits for our military is the issue that needs to be promptly managed. I applaud you in your new position and believe you will accomplish great things while appointed as such. Thank You!!
I HAVE CLAIMS THAT HAVE SAID TO BE IN APPEALS CIOURT FOR OVER TWO YEARS. NOW THEY ARE TELLING ME I HAVE FULL BENEFITS FOR MY HEARING.BUT THEY ARE NOIT GIVING ME CREDIT FOR WHEN I FIRST FILE FOR MY HEARING BACK IN EARLY 2000’S WHEN THEY REJERCTED MY CLAIM. THEY ARE ALSO TELLING ME I HAVE THE RIGHT TO A VEHICLE AND OTHER BENEFITS. I AM NOT UNDERSTANDING THIS. I HAVE ANOTHER CLAIM FOR EMPLOYMENT THEY HAVE BEEN FIGHTING ME ON THIS FOR OVER 13 YEARS. I CAN BARELY WALK AND CAN’T WORK OR SIT FOR ANY SHORT PERIODS. YET THEY KEEP REFUSING ME. I HAVE GONE TO DEAN HELLER AND AM GETTING NO HELP THERE. A WASTE OF TIME TRYING.
Well welcome to the rat race Mr. VA Secretary, With all the Knowledge that you are bringing to the table, We sure hope that you will be able to bring stability, to the VA once and for all, because God only knows how this is going to turn out for the Veterans.
Thank you Paul. I hope and support you going forward. I have faith that your family history has laid the foundation for your endless fight.
Richard Shewbrooks- US ARMY- Retired
I have posted 3 heartfelt ccomments on this board. 3 hrs late I still awai to be “moderated” because you can’t handle the truth.
I Burt mucho backup twice in Germany and rather than changing my m.o.s, they kicked me out of the Army. They have me a General Discharge under honorable conditions, but was never told that I could go to the VA for help. And 33 years later I’m still going through pain
To all you pogues. Best of luck. Learn our skills, we will never use them for your benefit again.
To my fellow Veterens, I implore you to implement the discipline of mind and body in order for these pogues to fall to their folly. Continue the march. You are not alone. 1LT Titus, (jUSAVAPRM)
Show me responsibility for our nation’s wealth and don’t kiss veterans behinds, I am one and I know many only abuse the honor. The ones posting about what they are owed are the first to go. Thanks for taking on the task and best of luck.
My husband and I are both :73 years old. First time we applied,he was given 30% a part of his pay ($500) is only tax deductible.After a couple of years,I (wife) help my husband to increase his dissability (my husband has a short term memory) we sent papers for his sleep apnea,got a doctor certification,he use a machine,2 letters from my husband former co shipmates.That was denied.My husband has been taking pain medication for years and years now.He went to detox one day,he did’nt like it as it was voluntary.With all the medication he was then, it might have affected his memory.I notice it as am his wife.I manage all his medication,cant lleave him alone for long time.Am the only one trying to re file again his dissability.It is hard,am losing hope.what do I do?
HB 299
How many blue water Navy veterans must die without their earned agent orange benefits before Congress votes on this bill
I am a veteran I am disabled and I had been getting my clothing allowance but then I get a letter saying that my service connected injuries are not service connected for clothing. I wear and AFO brace on my left leg and foot for the drop foot from nerve damage from injuries and surgery while in Iraq and a townsand brace on my right leg for a knee injury. I have titanium in my right shoulder and live in physical pain yet I can not get pain medicine. I have been waiting for someone to explain why it is hard to get what I need without having to jump through hoops and getting no help. I am 90% with 10% unemployablity. I have have this same rating for over 10 years still not permanent by VA rules. I go to Bay Pines Va in St. Petersburg Florida. So now I have a two year wait for a hearing on my clothing allowance. But the VA rules y’all are suppose to Era on the side of caution and rule in favor of the veterans yet you have people working at the VA here that bind the rules and deny Veterans their stuff. This is unexceptable that any Veteran should have to jump through hoops and fight to get the their benefits. I would like someone to help with this ASAP and I hope it will not take two years to get help.
My husband a retired Navy disabled vet is in stage 3 kidney failure after having 2 heart attacks and diabetes, high blood pressure, gain green in his liver. After reading all this I don’t know if it even worth the bother to try to raise his diability from 60 to 100%. He will probably die before I can get him any help. No It Did Not Work. I don’t feel better now.
Thank anyway
Have been waiting for my claim to be resolved since 2013. Was injured aboard ship in 1959 and spent 6 weeks aboard hospital ship USS HAVEN. Went to Salt lake City VA hospital in 1960 and was refused follow up treatment after Honorable Discharge. Have been paying for my own treatment for 60 years. Requested a review board in 2013 and am still waiting. Guess they are waiting for me to die (80 years old and have terminal cancer). Even told me my records burned up once. Asked if my beneficiaries could continue the claim and was denied. Don’t know where to go from here.
I been approved 100% unemployability for a CRDP claim. This was approved in 2016, I am still waiting for my retroactive pay is the VA, under staff? or the claims process need some ramping up. Does my case falls under the new and improved faster claim process? Can anyone out there provide feedback on this?
A joke of a promise from the largest pork barrel that this gov’t messed up. I mean, the system is so broke that I will always endeavor to fulfill my Oath of Office that I seared into my heart. I have 20yrs in the VA with MS, a horrible disease. I am taking myself out of the “care” of the VA. I have had neuritis issues in my feet for 6 months and the young, bottom of the barrel, Dr’s have looked at me with their doe eyes and said,” Dunno whats going on, go home and elevate your feet” The VA is a bunch of form pushing pogues with no understanding that 325% service connected disability is not easy to treat and takes years of training, not medical students, to Dx and treat OUR complications due to severe bodily trauma, taken freely with way too many promises…… WTF are you guys doing? GET OFF YOUR PHONES and worki like the soldiers you serve..
It is really sad to see all of the complaints. I’m a Veteran also suffering from conditions of Serving My Country. I have dealt with, am dealing with, have heard and have seen ever Veterans comments. I strongly agrees with Susan Elizabeth Desjardins comment. If all goverment agencies, Directors, Supervisors, Doctors, Physicians, etc… Just adhere to the Polices and Guidelines that are put in place and discipline those who don’t want to adher to the polices……
I waited five years. Hired an attorney. He was expensive but got my claim. Since I used an attorney our local Co. VA office wouldn’t provide transportation. I suffer from Parkinson’s, diabetes, Barretts Esophagus., and a few other things . My wife retired to care for me gets nothing. I can’t buy life insurance. You have so much to work on. Good luck.
I’ve had a disability claim pending a video hearing in front of a VA judge for 4 years now and still waiting. I heard so much about how the VA is getting better, it’s just another lie from another corrupt government bureaucracy. The only thing changing is a few names.
i was diagnosed with non Hodgkin lymphoma of the colon 3years ago,the v.a. says its a symptom of agent orange,getting a temporary 100 percent,the v.a. says the cancer can go away on its own,the university of Washington, says i cant take chemo,but keep going for my exams,because this cancer can show up in my lymph nodes at ant time,why do they keep giving me a temporary 100 percent?
Army corecd ra enlisted at 17 served to age 20 under other than honorable to furnish legal help 1968 /1971 .
There is so much to be done and for so many of us there is so little time.
Vietnam Veterans High blood pressure should be a presumptive. Ischemic Heart disease is a presumptive but HBP isn’t. PTSD rating for Vietnam Veterans is too low, still too much red tape to get the rating that is deserved.
Veterans that served at Fort McClellan should be given disability compensation for out exposure to chemicals.
We who were stationed at Ft. McClellan, Alabama (the most toxic place on the planet) need to be compensated just like those in Vietnam who were exposed to Agent Orange.
We need a vet march on washington.. The president can sign all the documents he wants… if the districts don’t implement them….. it mean nothing
I live in Kingman AZ I have been waiting over 7 months for a doctor visit my doctor quit or got fire around 3or 4 months ago and they have gotten no new doctors here please help us our clinic here is,a joke I have heart failure and I feel like they have just wrote me off I call them no return call please help us
If I were the VA Sect (I’m a vet), my bonus, and those of my staff, would be determined by a vote of the veterans we serve. Literally, I would poll all vets annually what, IF ANY, bonus we deserve, and that would be the bonus we get or don’t get.
When will you all put a stop to doctors and the claims department sabotaging veterans and my claims to save their job? The VA doctor’s refuse to do DBQ to support veterans claims, so veterans has to go to a outside doctor to get one fill out. Most of the VA staff and doctors that deal with claims are common criminals and need to be in jail, they should be ashame of themselves, the way they sabotage the men and woman claims, that served our country. I’m pretty sure no one will read or respond to this, I have proof of everything I have written.
I am a Veteran and have applied for benefits, but like others I also have been turned down. I currently have no insurance to take care of me if I get sick or end up in the hospital. I’m sure I don’t need the help like most do, but I’m not getting any younger either. My knees are giving out & my breathing is rough due to a facial injury I sustained during my HONORABLE & FAITHFUL service to my Country.
I’ve had growing issues with my right ear and knee. The VA claims it wasn’t due to my military service. It only occurred after I came back from Iraq and my body was recouporating from th rigorous training and all the missions I put my body through for our country. Yet, I was only given 30%. Change? We NEED change and MORE help.
To Whom It May Concern:
My name is Willie D. Lenox I served my country for 8 years got injured why I was in jump school it’s in my record to my left knee was granted a honor discharge due to my injury have been applying for 8 years been turned down 3 times but I am going to keep trying.
The VA can’t get right the 1800 number is useless no information can be passed and you can never get in touch with your regional representative everything about the ca is slow and outdated now we have a new director and he not going to change anything
My husband received a letter today from the VA, they gave him 10% got Atherosclerotic cardiovascular Disease, his Heart Doctor gave him a Met Level of 3, he stays fatigued, dizziness, passes out when he coughs and shakes, real bad, says he has a Helicopter Sound in his head, he has been turned down for unemployability, has had diarrhea since returning from Vietnam in 1970, has had diarrhea since returning home, got blowed out his bunker, almost deaf, has IBS, Rheumatoid Arthritis, Gout, ulcers, Hypertension, erectyle disfunction, shrapnel still in his left shoulder which he can not use, has 2 bad knees, gets compensated for left, but no secondary on the right, been in hospital 2 times so far this year, 3 times last year with bowel obstruction, what a person to do to get HELP!!!
Can someone please fix the travel pay system. First they (the Kansas City VA travel dept. ) uses bing maps to determine the travel milage verses Google and there is a 5-7 milage difference so Vets are getting ripped off for their travel pay. Next, the process takes 10-15 BUSINESS DAYS that by the time the payments are finally deposited into your account you’ve lost track which appointment the payment is for.
Very thankful and happy with the care I have received at the VA facilities in OKC. From my own experiences the VA has been a blessing for me. Thanks VA!
Medical records do not tell the full story especially when the problem was not considered a medical issue when I was on active duty. I have spent over 50 years with sleeping problems and take medication to go to sleep. I was diagnosed with sleep apathy but my records do not show being treated for sleeping problems. I was discharged in 1965 which is the same year according to google that Sleep apathy was considered a medical problem. All I hear is if it’s not in your medical records it did not happen. There are several things that happened that are not in my records. Please spend some time in solving the problems with the people in the claims and let them know that not everyone is out to take advantage of the system.
THey dont care no collaboration between a non-DOD entity. Antiquated systems to transfer information is nil. I got my ID it took over six months to get unacceptable. Paperwork system is a joke. I asked to talk to a psychologist at a va clinic and they told me that she was busy and that she would call me. She called me and left me a voicemail and never followed up. Take a number and hope your last through the system I doubt it. If you have real health issues you should seek treatment elsewhere.
Hello, congratulations on your new job. I receive 10% disability for my hearing. I’ve been waiting since February 2017 for my results from my VA hearing. Hopefully now that you’re on the job, the results for disability approval will be much quicker once more staff is hired to help with the work load.
Been denied for 15 years a psychosis diagnosis but now get 70 percent for pes planus with metasalargia and residual pain I had the record.
I am a 2x Honorably discharged veteran and I’ve had complications due to exposure of agent Orange while in training on a army base that manufactured agent Orange and I’ve had my prostrate removed and have diabetes two components of agent Orange and I’m getting large dry spots all over my body and I’m having trouble getting disability for my back injury while in the service…….NEED HELP!!!
My husband passed away on September 3rd, 2015. I have a letter from the head of the Agent Orange Clinic in Nashville TN stating that the lung cancer that my husband died from was caused by Agent Orange exposure but the VA is still telling me to prove it. If the VA doctor says that it is caused by it that should be proof enough. I am on disability myself and about to lose my home. Why will the VA not approve the DIC? I need my husband’s benefits. He was 100 %service connected disabled and a Vietnam Vet
What can be done about a bva judge who completely ignores a nexus letter which should have gained an approval? They made no mention of the nexus letter in the explanation for the denial. It’s basically like my hearing never took place…..The new evidence was never even considered.
I’m am one of the Atomic bomb cleanup vets and we are trying to get or Congress to pass and addmenment to be included in the downwind veterans bill we have been stalemate in Congress way to long we have a web site called Atomic Veterans Cleanup if you would review our website and see our predictiment it would be appreciated thank you
What a very impressive display praising the veterans of this country. Problem is there are probably 100 not
recognized for every one that is. I was stationed aboard a ship in 62 for Operation Dominic at Christmas Island
and some on the ship were exposed to radiation, including myself. I applied three times for some kind of
compensation with no results, even tho there are others that were aboard too that did get compensation.
So all the hoop a loo is mainly just for show. Don’t be taken in by these cheap braggings.
its unfortunate that comments are lost in space… What happened to freedom of speech..
I was diagnosed with prostrate cancer December of 2016. The surgeon told my to apply for agent orange,(Vietnam 1966), yet I was denied.
DID you meet with a representative from the VVA yet?? ( Vietnam Veterans of America)??
I could not get any medical benefits or disability claims passed by myself! My VVA rep was sensational in handling my Agent Orange-related disease status!! I was in the war zone in Nam for one full year in 66-67. He assisted me in all of the process!
Do it now!!! Might help!!!! Good Luck!!
I cannot understand why the VA and the military branches do not communicate. I had remarried and updated the DEERS system about my divorce and remarriage in 2010. Jump forward six years, the VA collected six years of the dependent stipend because I didn’t update the VA with the current spouse’s name and marriage which occurred in 2010. They will not credit me the full time for my current wife because they weren’t updated. My divorce and remarriage are fully documented, yet the VA choose to ignore the facts. I have only used the VA facilities once for recurring back issues, choosing instead to use my employer’ healthcare after receiving poor care.
the percent is stupid with the va…. ifbyou have 10, 20 30 40 50 60 ect thats what it should be not this bs where they take all your lower ones away and just add the high ones up.
In agreement John. The entire percentage scale needs to be revamped. VA math and its processing of certain conditions and requirements to receive a certain percentage is a total joke. Hopefully, it will get looked into at some point-in-time.
I go to the Corpus Christi va and the last 3 times I went there asking for help with my pain. I got know answer I have filed complaints 3times as well on how this VA operates truthfully this VA should not even be open because they have no ideal how to hell a vet like me that had chronic pain 24/7 I really don’t even have a congressman to file a complaint to since he was fired for playing with someone butt . Sure would be nice if I had some help
Someone forget RVN?
Meet the new boss..Same as the old boss
Raymond Griffith, June 18, 2018 @ 6:13 P.M.
Dear Sir: It literally took me years to get out of 35% for my benefits. I finally hired an attorney and in no time it went to 90%. I lived for years on nothing but now the amount I received is looked at as a large check. Our cost of living which use to be anywhere from 5% to 15%. We now get about an extra $24 per month and that is not close to the cost ofd living. Out in the real world you can’t get a loan for a house because you have too much debt to get rid of or buying a car which use to go for about 25,000 now they are 50-70,000 dollars which we can’ afford so we drive a lot of clunkers.
We need a leader that doesn’t just walk the talk and talk the talk but actually helps us. Enough of the false hope and then more of the same. Tell Congress to take some of the billions they give out like it was candy to our enemies and programs that don’t do a damn thing for us but it gets them votes to knock it off and really take care of your vets this December. We are crashing out here.
Regards,
Raymond Griffith, U.S.M.C.
My husband Michael Humphrey passed Way 12/27/2016. . I had taken him to our local Va emergency room on 12/26/2016. Thay Told him he was just dehydrated. Gave him a half bag of fluid . And sent .him home . . The next day 12/27/2016 . He passed away in my yard .the Va. Said it was a heart attack. With out even doing otopsey on him … he had a claim on some. Back. Stomach issues. The Va told me when he passed the claim passed with him ..I was told from other people that work at the VA that I should have gotten his back pay . Is that true .. I only get 84 dollars Widow Pension. Thank you
let the poor fight your wars, suffer, and the rich reap the benefits.
Every single veteran went into the military in top physical and mental condition — the military will not have people begin their service unless they are healthy. But in the highly likely event these individuals come out with some level of disability the VA treats them as if they are trying to get compensation fraudulently. This is irrespective of whether the military has fully documented medical conditions that require the VA to provide benefits to veterans. A discharged disabled veteran must jump through hoops to be approved to even use the VA and then it typically takes a year or usually much longer to receive a VA disability rating. The disabled veteran does not receive any disability compensation without the rating, which is typically a low – balled rating. In the mean time, if the veteran is lucky, family and friends shoulder the burden of care for the disabled veteran without compensation. How do you actually propose to fix this Mr. New Former Consultant Under Secretary?
Why does it take years for certain diseases to be diagnosed and treated or to even be compensated for when the Marine Corps knew of the deadly toxin being dumped in the water system. Can I be fully compensated before I leave this world. What I have scalderma is on the list of diseases. Help!!!
Disabled Veterans is I00 percent get the Cosmetic Dentistry Dentist G4 implants for free.
What’s going on with bladder cancer as a presumptive ?
I am a dyears. With service in Iraq & Afghanistan. I have nerve damageisabled veteran of thirty seven from a fall. I recently had nerve testing done again by VA. It was done by an outside provider because of my distance from a VA facilitiy. I was told I need surgery on both my arms. And that the nerves in my feet are dieing. I draw disability for 90% but have more before VA math. I will be 59 this year and was medically retired in 2014. I have asked for unemployability. I have constant pain in my hands and arms. Been diagnosed with Fibromyalgia by an outside Rumatologist. The Army doctor I last saw said I would need Rumatological care for the rest of my life yet VA claims I have nuralgia and refuses to see me as a Rumatological patient. They also claim that I can work but employers refuse me due to the drugs VA prescribes. I need someone to intervene on my behalf and move my case forward.
im a 100% sc disablity and go to the castle point medical center in ny and i rate this va medical center a 10 PLUS great drs and nurses and employes always looking out for your veterans
I was told that i don’t qualify fir benefit because my injury happened after the service i have flat feet which happened after my miltary service back and knee problems scitaica pain in my neck and both kness but this all happened after i got out of the srvice I’ve been going to the V.A hospital for about 6 year know for all the pain that I’m in and still nothing
I sure do hope that he is true to his word
I’m a retired Veteran of 351/2 years of service to this Great nation and I’ve been waiting for results of my PTSD, also several other medical issues but still waiting and now I just realized that they stopped my Caregiver cause they feel that i don’t needed cause I’m Not showing any side affects but I will keep trying even if I got to go to my Congressman for help.
I joined the Profession of Arms in February of 1980; serving in operations from the Cold War through Operation New DAWN; thirty-seven years have passed quickly. The past twenty six years I served as a Flight Medic. Deploying seven times; evacuating over 16,000 combat casualties to higher echelons of care. It was an honor, horrific, and a grueling commitment.
Retired May 2017 and submitted a claim, still awaiting judgement. I am praying this Nation will honor the commitments made as I have honored the commitments made to this Nation and its citizens without regard to cost or personal sacrifice.
Thanks VA for denying my husbands Kidney Dialysis!! You guys finally found the loophole in trying to take him out and you succeeded. So which one of ya gets the “Bonus” for the denial? and who gets the “Bonus” when he’s dead?
I live in Rapid City, South Dakota, I moved back here at the request of my five daughters after an open heart surgery. In Oklahoma, I was getting VA benefits for two fingertips that were damaged in the Air Force, and hearing loss. The person that helped me sign up for my benefits in Oklahoma also told me I was told I had depression by a military Doctor. When I came to Rapid City the person in Sioux Falls took away my benefit for one of my fingers to reduce my rating of 30% to 20% so the VA did not have to pay for my heart medications. How sad can you get? They still will not give me anything on the depression. The system is a joke.
Congratulations on your position. As a DAV it’s sad that I’m not able to get disability for my teeth. During the Gulf War the only water available was water covered with oil and sand. I now have to come up with the money to file my claim with the Federal Appeals Court .
I don’t understand why the VA will not cover the cost.
Here’s another change of the head of VBA but I’m pretty confident nothing is going to change All this nice talk about being honored to serve our veterans is just that all talk. Please stop trying to convince us that things will change for the better because no matter how many changes of leadership take place nothing will change. Stop talking and show how different you will be by your actions. Your actions will speak louder than your words.
“I am honored and humbled to be able to help serve our nation’s Veterans,” Lawrence said. “We are indebted to them for their sacrifices, and owe them nothing less than to ensure they get the benefits they have earned.”
Earned?? Still fighting for my re-eval that I did in Dec to be completed. E-Ben page says that there is no date for it to be completed. Had to have part of the bone removed in my foot because the Army didn’t believe the Italian hospital that it was broke, they actually cut off the cast that they had put on. Now fighting the VA because of the “Opioid Epidemic” they want to remove all Vets from narcotic pain meds, even if they are working for them. All because some junkie OD’d on heroin in a alley. I have to go piss in a cup to prove I AM taking my meds. Maybe this is why there are 22 a day, because the VA doesn’t care about treating vet’s, they are now into the PC world of thinking.
So where are these benefits at???
My name is Bobby Gipson. I already have a 70% disability for PTSD. I have applied for IU. It’s not a greed thing but a safe outcome for myself and the private sector. Only the dead have seen the end of the war.Since coming home from Vietnam I have lost a marriage, been penalized with Lifetime Alimony, Worked so many jobs to support myself from living on the street. So thankful for the VA to grant me the 70% disability.I still smell weapons fire from the exhaust fumes of cars and trucks. The 4th of July is the worst day of my life. I lay in a fetal position with the sounds of my electronic devices cranked up while firecrackers are lighting the skies and the sounds are defining. My trauma is real and valid. It isn’t desperate or pathetic or attention seeking. It’s called self-care. Regardless of the magnitude of my struggles. I am taking care of myself by processing and unloading some of the pain I carry. My healing matters. I have been fighting with this like I’m the 3rd Lion on the ramp to Noah’s Ark and it’s starting to rain. I feel a progress but not to be in the workforce anymore is what I need. Please if you can assist in this process would be of a grateful thanks.
I havebeen unable to get the benefits im should. for 60 yrs
My problem is I received my updated disability rating within 3 months. I feel this was satisfactory. Now 4 months later I am still waiting to receive my disability retroactive back pay. I have notified my senator Dean Heller for help with this problem. Hopefully someone can light a fire under whomever is running this department and get my money to me. Thank you
this is propaganda because i sent a letter to president trump for assistance and asked for my letter and pkt to NOT be sent to the VA in houston, tx. but they did just that. they screwed me over and over and nothing has been done. i am waiting for a response from one of the major networks so that i can expose their lies and incompetence. they are liars, incompetent and don’t give a hoot about anyone. my guess they don’t have one vet working in those offices so how can they possibly even have a hiint of what we went through. LIES, LIES AND MORE LIES.
I have zero trust in the appointments made by the current clownshow.
I asked if we have breach our contract by surviving the wars, peace time training,an the drills the te ll us that sick call no good, 25 years later, been thru 3 appeals in 9 years
Hello From Alabama, Valley; I have a Question for the House of Representatives of 115th Congress 1st session.?????
H.R. 3666 “Fort McClellan Health Registry Act” has been in the House since AUGUST 25, 2017. And once again it is being stone walled, I as a American Tax Payer and Voter, and not to mention one of the Patriots who signed up knowing their military service would come with real risk beyond my thoughts,
but that is no excuse for America to turn their back and abandon us in our time of need.For to Long Us Veterans have been left in the shadows alone and forgotten by the nation we served, to suffer painful illness and indignity. It is long pass due we get answers we deserve and help we also deserve and get access to needed care and treatment for these and compensated for our service-connected disabilities. Lets do what is right, We stood up for you, Now stand up for Us!!!
(Please Share I would love to see 1000+ shares)
Sincerely;
Richard L. Amon
Disabled American Veteran
U.S.Army Military Police
Ft. McClellan, Alabama 1980
This is what myself and my fellow Veterans where exposed to:
TCE’s… DDT… Agent Orange… PCB’s… Mustard Gas… Nerve Gas… Bacterial Agents… Benzene… Mercury… Lead… Depleted Uranium… Nuclear Waste (Radiation) Cesium 137… Cobalt 60… SR 90… Asbestos… and Arsenic… I and my fellow Veterans need Anti-Nuclear, Anti-Body, Serum protein, and Electrophoresis tests…
We where exposed to high levels of radiation:
Ft. McClellan had radiation levels that exceeded the acceptable limits of SR 90… Cobalt-60… and Cesium 137… and not by any small amounts. The Cobalt-60 alone was more than 7 million times the allowable limit for public use… In January 1985 the military “Discovered” lost isotope that had been there for years and recovered it.
We Drank….. Showered…. and Ate food prepped in contaminated water with the above chemicals.
We Crawled in…. Slept in…. dug in by hand…… and did PT….. in soil contaminated with the above chemicals… Many of my fellow Veterans are Sick with multiple diseases and many sadly have died…While the DOD and VA turn a Blind Eye….And do not Claim responsibility for our Health Conditions…..or Our Health Care from our Toxic Exposure.
I have heard so much negativity in responses to post I have put up, I will never give up with God All things are possible. ” The Lord is gracious and compassionate, slow to anger and rich in love” Psalm145:8
Everyone talks a good talk, but try walking the walk. Look we all faced the worst of the worst and we are still here by the Grace of God. Nothing more we can give up or get mad and do something about it , We Are Soldiers First( Toxic Exposed) .You have been told all your lives what to do, one man won’t make a difference?
Guess What? One Man did make a difference!!!! JESUS CHRIST!!!
HE CHANGED THE WORLD!!! Take up the Cross and follow Him, where is your Faith and Trust , Mine is in Him and Father God , I lost faith in our government long ago, but I will never lose Faith and Trust in Jesus, Therefore Brothers and Sisters I will NEVER GIVE UP OUR FIGHT FOR OUR RIGHTS, BECAUSE I AM A SOLDIER FIRST. AND BECAUSE HE LIVES. AMEN
I can’t even get into see doctor for 3 months. Pensacola VA Clinic and doctors are terrible. I have used private doctors and now have spent thousands of dollars for health care. Thanks for nothing VA.
Michael,
If the VA cannot schedule you an appointment within 30 days you are qualified to use VETERANS CHOICE.
Do you have a Veterans Choice card?
Call 866.606.8198 or go online to http://www.VA.gov/opa/choiceact/ for further info. We veterans have only each other to find the truth. Remember, the VA must be treated as a hostile force. So keep your powder dry and prepare to engage the
About all i see here are complainers. I served Nov 60- Nov 64 USAF, got out as an E3, nothing special about me. 1976 I got sick and tired of being a sick and tired alcoholic. There was an outpatient program at the Batavia NY VA clinic. I have been sober since Sep 1976, so i guess the VA does some things right! I have been in the WNY system ever since and have nothing but praise and gratitude for all.
If you are having problems with getting your benefits maybe you are not doing the right thing. The first thing I learned was that there are three ways to do thing: The right way, The wrong way and the Air Force way. I’m sure each and every one of you learned the exact same thing. Now it’s the VA way, dot the i’s, crass the t’s and then triple check it. Sure the VA screws up, who doesn’t, but be sure it’s them and not you. Most screw ups are “operator error”.
Just my nickel’s worth.
Yes!! I filed in 2013, appealed in 2014, and I’m still waiting!! And, I’m NOT going RAPID!! That’s a quick way to get denied and then have to start the process all over!!!
Filed a NOD appeal 15 months ago, checked w/VA claims last week & was told that average review time is 447 days & that the actual process could take 3-5 years-while we wait my Viet Nam Veteran spouse is suffering from serious side effects from agent orange related diabetes; heart attack, pad, osteomyelitis which ultimately required amputation of one toe, not to mention the PTSD-We thought If diabetes was a presumptive why is he getting the run around trying to get an award that mirrors his many struggles-this is so unfair on all fronts
When he first rep’d the award & we reached out on multiple occasions to meet with a DAV officer to help us w/the NOD we not once even rep’d a call back or letter stating that they could help us
Please putter Veterans first & stop this ludicrous and extremely seriously long wait time.
What a real slap in the face for those who would give their life to protection this Nation only to be treated so poorly-the VA should & must do better-Is the goal to delay waiting to see if the veteran will just die?
If not, do your job & process these claims in an expedient fashion
I hope that you are able to sleep at night!!!!
I was misdiagnosed in 2000 with Crohn’s disease at the Dallas VA. I was on a medication for 15 years. It compromised my immune system and almost all of the warnings for this medication, I had them. Of course my claims were denied and I’m debating an appeal. It’s stressful and quite frankly I don’t have it in me to continue, because I’m 68 and not well. There was medical malpractice by no less than 10 doctors.
Therefore, please give my well deserved portion to a war veteran.
I received a letter back in June from dept of veteran affairs. It stated that they still working on claims from 2015 or earlier. My claim was filled in 2016. We are now in 2018. This kind of ridiculous to all veterans. Especially those spouses who wait then their veteran dies with leaving them nothing. If you are listening to us it down the time for our claims. But as all of us been told one time or another that we are expendable.
Maybe the VA figures that if they wait long enough, we’ll all die and they won’t have to compensate anyone!
Good luck! I filed for hearing loss in 2009. Was awarded diability gor tinnitus and denied for hearing loss. I am a Vietnam combat veteran ( combat infantry badge and bronze star) and then spent 6 years as a 81mm mortar man (mechanized). VA concedes that I was exposed to acoustic noise trauma and that I have hearing loss, but since my hearing test at discharge showed normal hearing, I was denied. I had sn otolaryngologist exam me and he signed a statement that “more likely than not, my hearing loss was a direct result of my hearing loss. VA chose to go with the opinion of their audiologist. No considerstion was given to drlayed onset hearing loss. Once you’re out of the service, the VA vould care less about you or your health. Thsnks gor mothing VA! My suggestion? If you don’t have to go in, don’t!
I am a Vietnam veteran and when the government told me to report I did. Now that I need medical care it takes two , three or more months to get to see a doctor. Two months to remove a basil cell carcinoma from the tip of my nose. After having a total shoulder replace a year ago and after following the direction of the surgeon I now have to go back in to remove his work, wait sixty days and go back in to have the hardware put back in! I started this four years ago. The VA is waiting for time to kill us off! They are in no hurry!
you are another that is going to take me to the cleaners as all rest have i was injured by a sgt in millitary 1972 what do they say no records they burnt up i prove i was in great health before to bad they say now last stage then i go to court been over year now i am 100 per cent disabled by this on social security unable to work sometimes not even stand and not much walking at all let me go to court i know u want me died then u do not have to pay fine i have lost all i have had now but u can not take my FAITH IN GOD AND THE USA u try but u WANT!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!
Do you have the capacity to see my paper trail to this reply?
Same old s(redacted)t!!!!
Well I will write this very generic because the last time I wrote something things changed to make my situation worse. There is a lot of talk about taking care of Vet’s, but that is all it seem to be. As for medical here is one example I was asked last week to drive 4-5 hour round trip for a 10 minute appointment that they changed. Then when I refuse to drive 4 plus hours they mark my file as I am refusing care so now they are free to do to whatever they want because I refused care, Wow!! I just wish someone cared” I mean really cared “. Another problem is I tried to get a VA loan “what a joke”. It cost me about $1500 and I can’t even get a copy of the appraisal that they said was to low. Even though an appraisal 3 months before was higher then I need. Problem and headaches is Mr Lawrence go to fix these type problem most likely not. I guess I also will be considered as just blowing smoke and someone will be assigned to me to keep me quiet and just go away.
How many times do you refuse to accept my responses?
Need to look back on my many attempts to respond. Everything in CPRS is current.
I hope the new secretary can resolve the backlog of appeals. I am in 6 years now and waiting for a board review which I am number 156,320 in line. Their currently working claims dated back to 2015. I think sometimes they hope we pass before our turn comes.
I hope you are against privatizing the VA.
I hope you are against prisvatizing the VA…
It seems that past VA administrations took “Ensure we’re strong fiscal stewards of the money entrusted to us” a little too far. Stripping benefits from the Blue Water Navy Vietnam Veterans who were exposed to Agent Orange certainly did not fulfill the principle “Provide Veterans with the benefits they’ve earned in a manner that honors their service.” Let’s hope Under Secretary Lawrence puts more emphasis on providing benefits.
Muchos como mi esposo estuvieron en 1991 Desert Storm han tenido condiciones de salud relacionadas al Syndrom Storm por haber estado expuestos a Uranio en las bombas, acá en PR parece que desconocen esa información en VAAffair Por Favor Pongalon al día, Las Reclamaciones se tardan años
Luz, WHAT? This is America, if you cannot assimilate to you new culture. Get back JoJo.
Serve veterans……yeah….right. Why did I have to wait 19 days short of 25 years to get my disability pay when I was medically retired from the military for a service connected disability? Discharged 9/7/87. Got the first check 8/21/2012. And there was no back pay.
I worked on the flight line as a crew chief for T39, F100, C54 and other aircraft. Then, when I was 72, I applied for disability because of very poor hearing, I should have applied many years earlier, but I felt other veterans needed the help more that I. Yes, I always had ear protection on except when I was flying as a crew chief on board the T39’s. After two trips to Nan, working in the open on the flight line, working on F100’s 12 hours a day, 7 days a week, I was told the the loss of hearing was not job related. Really? Jet engines blasting within several feet of my ears? For years. If those who denied my request were in the same position as I, and had done the same job for the USA as I did, there would be no reason to say no to the request. I congratulate Paul Lawrence on his new position in the VA. Paul, why does a veteran like me have to fill out more paperwork and reapply for benefits? When all the paperwork was correct when filed. Why can’t the VA get it right the first time. How many veterans just say the hell with the VA, like I did, and go about thier way. I thought the VA was to help the Veteran. I am not posting this for me, but for other veterans. Clear cut, the jet engines were the cause of my poor hearing. My medical records speak for themselves. The problem is the VA does not listen. Or the VA might just disapprove a large number of the request, wishing never to see that veteran again. Do I expect any reply from the VA? I will not hold my breath. God help those who need the help more that I need it.
Why has my husband Col. Fred L. May III had to wait 6 years and still waiting to find out about his disabled benefit he protested. We signed a letter 8 months ago to expedite this but have not heard a word. This is a terrible way to treat a 26 year veteran in the Air Force who suffered for everyone. See if you can find out what is happening.
Patricia May
(redacted)
Cibolo, TX 78108
(redacted)
How do I find out if I can get any type of disability. I was due to get 10% permanent partial until I got an other than honorable discharge. Administrative separation in 1996. I served from December of 1988 until July 18 1996 .I am also a decorated gulf war veteran. Dessert shield and dessert storm in 1991.
I was wondering if the VA has changed their policy about using the wife’s income combined with the veterans income to determine eligibity for veterans medical. We don’t it think it is right .
I am a Vietnam vet and was exposed to agent orange (presumably) being stationed in Danang RVN 1970/1971…….I was diagnosed with an incurable but manageable blood cancer called essential thrombocythemia.(production of too many blood platelets) in 2007 and have found out that hundreds of other Vietnam veterans have the same condition. I have tried to get a claim approved with the VA,BUT I need”clinical rationale”……..To get approval…….Help,as this is most frustrating.I cannot find a medical professional to provide clinical rationale…….Thanks
I hope that you include the Blue Water Navy veterans in your agenda. They were stripped of their Agent Orange benefits in 2002 and are dying with ought their earned and deserved benefits.
With Trump in charge, I do not trust anything any government head says or does. He has proven to be a pathological liar and cares for noone but himself
Bob, would you rather have Clinton. POTUS is the best thing to happen to America since Ronald Reagan. You are a socialist scrum bag. Why? This is VA forum not a place to disrespect the President. How does a dumb ass like you even eat, food stamps and free money? The party is over Bob, get a job and man up.
#MAGA #MAGAveteran.
CAPTCHA codes are ridiculous and don’t work!
How is VA saying they are here to help when your veteran husband has an appointment to see a doctor and VA calls and says they have to move the appointment out a whole month as there is no doctor to see you and an error was made in the scheduling? VA needs to get this fixed! He is a Vietnam veteran, has PTSD, has heart issues, skin issues, neuropathy, was exposed to agent orange, etc!
I’m an honorably discharged 100% service connected and been denied 100% of the surgeries, treatment, therapy, equipment required as a spinal injury patient. The first thing is to start treating all Veterans prior to 2001. Our own government admitted to not spending any budget on us. We were to be ignored until we die by natural causes or suicide. Yet not one hospital has been targeted for the wrongful deaths caused by those doctors and nurses. Who also steal our badly needed medication for their own addiction. We Vietnam Veterans demand our constitutional, Veterans, and basic human rights. Those rights seem to be given over to terrorists (we fought against), and any illegal or criminal person. Our sacrifices means nothing to current congress and senate, I only hope this person stops sending my support dollars back to congress illegally.
I have disabilitys adding up to 170 percent with the va combining calculator I draw 90 percent the calculations system needs work once you reach 90 its almost impossible to get a 100
Garth, I had a 90% rating also. I then filled a claim for TDIU,” totaled disabled and individually unemployable” the claim was granted and the VA makes up the difference between your rating of 90% and 100%. I have been rated at 100% since 2003. Without using the VA combining tables I add up to 270%. You must file for TDIU, If your rated at 90% how can you work.
Rolf Beyer
I agree I’m 160 and trying to the VA to do anything is a JOKE and a DISGRACE to all our vets !!!! The 1 thing I’ve learned after 26 years of dealing with the VA is if you know someone your process is a lot better !! That’s right I’m calling out the VA on their bullshit ways of dealing with us – I see it every time I go to the VA
Garth Allen Cole, if you are able to work you will never get 100%. The only way to get 100% if one did not lose an extremity or eye sight is to be unemployable. You would have to get the doctors you see to state you are to disabled to work.
@Garth Allen cole File for I/U if you cant make 100 %I/U is the same thing
I agree that the system falls apart in going from 90% disability to 100%. Added disability awards are almost totally denied.
Maybe I can finally get 100% its always fun having every doctor i see ask why im not rated at 100% yet.
6 back surgeries
2 wheel chairs
PTSD
Peripheral neuropathy
etc etc
I am a Vietnam veteran and receive compensation for agent orange related cancer. I live in Russell Kansas and am within 40 miles of a va clinic in Hays Kansas so I can’t receive a va choice card. The problem is the clinic in Hays does not have a full facility and doesn’t have a opitical department or a dental facility so I have to drive to Wichita Kansas for those services. The Hays clinic also can not flush my port that is used for chemo and immunotherapy the port needs to be flushed every 4 to 6 weeks. Currently medicare pays to have my port flush at the hospital in Russell since these receives aren’t available in Hays I feel I should be eligible for va choice care with a choice card so I can receive these services locally. Wichita is a 3 hour from Russell I have a 100% va compensated disability from agent orange. I have chronic leukemia and prostrate cancer and am 73 yrs old and can’t drive a total of 6hrs to see a doctor in Wichita Kansas
Charles, who told you that you can’t recieve a veterans choice card?
Now that you are under secretary for benefits, I truly hope you can fix the current wait time for disability after a comp and pen exam. I am a former flight nurse from desert storm that contracted an incurable disease called pulmonary arterial hypertension from inhaling toxic fumes from burn pits in desert storm. I have had my comp and pen exam and am still waiting for a decision. My VA doctor for desert storm stated the research shows that inhalator these fumes caused my disease. I don’t have longevity in this lifetime and having to wait and wait and wait is unacceptable. Would you please try to speed up this process? Those of us who served and Are now very ill deserve to be helped in an expeditious manner.
Please make this a priority as time is not on our side.
Thank you
Janet D. Radtke
Went to the VA in Hampton, VA today 6/18/18 Very disappointed in Service had an ENT Appt for 11:30 A and was told that I Cancelled it which I didn’t it was made in April after seeing an Audiologist (probably spelled wrong) and now they tell me I can’t be seen Until July and I have to go and pick up all the papers from the Audiologist and He told me He sent them to the VA Wasted an Hour and a Half today thought that the talk about the problems in the VA was just talk but today reliazed it’s TRUE
Sorry to hear about your husband, from one veteran to another I thank him for his service and I thank you for your support. Often times what I have found is that a veteran will go in and apply for VA medical, that is when the VA looks at your income and tell you that you make too much. Anyone who reads this post please understand it doesn’t matter what your status is in life, you as a veteran if honorably discharged from service are allowed to file a claim for disability. Once your claim has been processed you are then in the system and can then use VA medical care. To many veterans separate from service and never file a claim thinking there is nothing wrong with them until it is. Go online to e-benefits, if not registered do so then file the paperwork for VA disability.
My husband served 23 years in the Air Force. Retired honorably. He is disabled now after his service, but he cannot get any benefit from the VA because he was told he makes too much money. He has lost compensation from his former workplace. We continually pay out more, as he has had two strokes, in order to meet his needs. It seems that something is missing when the VA denies veterans such as my husband from receiving any benefits. Is this really about ALL those who served? Or is it about hardship cases only?
Waiting for a year and still haven’t been paid for my husband SBP refund. What a joke helping the Veterans there is no one interested in helping them. No one cares or wants to help each time I call a big run around. I doubt this will be looked at but at least I feel better.
Gail kaye
Gail, I was having trouble getting spousal benefits when my husband died from a 100% disability (Agent Orange). I wrote to my congress woman, Annie McLane Kuster (NH) and I got my benefits 6 weeks later. She is for the Veterans!! I gave a lot of detail of when I applied and reapplied, documented my phone calls, etc. and mentioned all in my letter. Give a try. Dawn
I need help on my claim exposure to agent orange ischemic heart disease claim an my eyes are being affected
Look for a county service officer or Vietnam Veterans , or VFW,American Legion. If you don’t like the first one you go to then go to the next one. You earned the wright to it let them help.
Contact your local VA hospital and register in the data base for exposure to Agent Orange.
This process, the whole lot of it, is an absolute joke! I was honorably discharged through a review from the MMRB for my “inability” to stay in the Service and was forced out as a result with 14 years of Service under my belt. All of the outstanding injuries were documented with LOD statements and signed by command, directly in line with SOP from each command. The result? For 12 years, I have been fighting and appealing to the VA just to be entitled to any kind of benefits. The turndowns continuously state that there is no direct link to my military service, even though my claims are based on documented incidents and my subsequent discharge was based on them as well! The VA has one agenda, hope that they die so they won’t have to be paid or taken care of! I wanted to retire, and I was in the process of deploying when the medical examiner kicked me out if the process and sent me home, but none of my DOCUMENTED injuries entitle me to benefits, health care, etc? Fix the rhetoric and maybe the VA will be viewed favorably! I have been fighting and appealing the VA for 12 long years, and this organization is an absolute disgrace. An Honorably Discharged Veteran of the US Military should not have to face this type of situation. Wanna contact me for some feedback? I’m not dead yet!
Dr Lawrence will probably never read this, but maybe someone will and looks into the treatment of veterans at the Omaha VA. First, providing veterans the benefits they earned? After many years, many different treatments and medications, the VA finally found a treatment that provides some pain relief. However, I recently received a denial for continued treatment of a painful SC injury. Despite my primary VA doctor and an outside doctor writing the Omaha VA letters recommending continued treatment, the Omaha VA Chief of Staff stated that “evidence does not support for long term care? In regards to “strong fiscal stewards of money”, they got that right! The Omaha VA continues to bill my private insurance for treatments that I never received or treatments I did not request. Even after asking them not to treat me for any non-SC item, they still bill my insurance. Finally, “fostering a culture of collaboration”, how does telling me that if I don’t like the treatment I am getting, that I can go somewhere else, or that I should be appreciative for the treatment I am receiving. How’s that for collaboration?!
Too bad this is a joke! The VA does not give a damn about serving veterans I have proof. I am a Vet and have been trying to get them to look at my lower back which I injured in the military. They have looked at me 6 times for my shoulder injury and two crushed toes from the military. But they refuse to look at my lower back. I have been to a surgeon on my own and was told he could operate but there was an 85% chance I’d be paralyzed from the waste down.
Friend of mine served in the Navy during Vietnam. He passed a couple of years ago, I came to find out that is in country time wasn’t recognized simply because the person reading the files had no idea that during those years it was identified in the orders as Indonesia. And yeas across the board those that served in Vietnam fall under what’s called presumptive illness.
I’m not well educated on a lot of things but I stay up to date on VA disability.
Prostate cancer in a Vietnam veteran is automatically 100%. Take your husband’s claim to the DAV.
Prostate cancer is a presumed illness under Agent Orange guideline like diabetes. Google Agent Orange and you can find all presumed illnesses related to veterans that had boots on the ground in Vietnam. That means they do not have to provide documentation of AO exposure.
As a service connected disabled veteran (Vietnam), I’m more than concerned that those who served in the Blue Water Navy (during Vietnam) are not being fairly treated. Isn’t it due time that they receive the benefits that they are entitled to? How much more time, money and research is needed when the facts are there already and have been for quite a few years, to prove beyond a shadow of doubt that these veterans were in fact exposed to Agent Orange herbicides during their time in this war. Our government knew of the consequences but continued with the spraying, etc., anyway.
They may not have died on Vietnamese soil but surely they are dying here today from the effects of what our government did to them years ago. They need to be fully compensated for that, as they earned it…….. It’s time to make this right and H.R. 299 and S.422 need to be passed ASAP, without exception or additional baggage………..
Respectfully,
A Vietnam Veteran suffering from the effects of Agent Orange
Outstanding comment.. thank you Sir .. After 21 related operations, and also being DENIED request under the FOIA a total of 4 times.. I can only praise you for your comment and say Thank You..
I feel your pain my husband failed to get the ruling for his health care in regards to his prostate cancer but then they did give him a 10% for his hearing loss
I don’t understand how top people in the VA admin could be getting the bounces they do with the way it has been run in the past. It’s like don’t do the job they are paid well to do and you will get reall nice bounces. The rest of verterans have to fight for what they have earned!
Thanks Jim
I am a vietnam veteran using the Jacksonville VA.
I have had abdominal pains for over 6 weeks and yet the VA is dragging their feet getting me an appointment
I had an ER visit to a non VA facility .after my primary doctor placed the referral. Now the VA is trying to stiff me with the bill.
Do you call this good health care because this veteran thinks its negligent healthcare.
Sir you should be able to contact what they call the Choice program that our President set up, they may be able to help you.
Good Lucknvu8
You can use Veterans Choice if the VA can’t schedule an appointment within 30 days. Then you can choose your preferred outside provider. The folks at Veterans Choice are awesome. Only thing they can’t help with is dental.
Gary Wensell, 1/7th 1st Cav AirMobile, 1970-71
The Veteran’s Choice program I’m told is out of money so now I must drive 2 hours to see a physical therapist. That Program was one of the best thing the VA ever did. I hope our new Under Secretary of Benefits is watching.
Beverly, that was fake news
Veterans Choice funding has been extended. I am using them for three appointments in the coming weeks.
Don’t accept information from the VA as truth. They are nothing but lazy government lackeys. You can trust tbe DAV. The VA is part of the deep state and have a lie and deny attitude for veterans, simply because you may make the lazy bastards actually do the job they were hired to do. Can I get an Amen?
The locals hold it until you die. I was made aware that the Directors of the VA’s get bonuses for the money they save the VA. In my opinion that also means claims.
So finally we’ll be taken care of? I’m still waiting for the Houston VA to quit disregarding my claims due to a clerical error caused by my medical officer. I’m not gonna stop fighting.
Why can’t I get a reply to my appeal claim? I think 3 years of trying to be patient is long enough.I get the feeling my age is against me?
Rapid Appeals Modernization Program (RAMP)
Are you handeling your appeal thru the VA? If so they are waiting for you to die. Go to a veterans service officer, I went thru the DAV.. It costs you nothing and they take no crap from the bureaucrats at the VA.
#MAGA
ask for a revolving board hearing from washington from your district. Contact the DAV
Let’s start with the process for awarding said benefits-one year, come on, appeals, up to two years minimum-really? That’s the best you can do when there was a draft, you told men to report within a week-stop their lives and serve. Now when agent orange is kicking their backsides you take years? Wow!
The 40% disability rating…is that for you at your father? Are you aware that the VA offers in home care for veterans whose disabilities become so debilitating that they require assistance on a more regular basis? Have you filed the necessary paperwork to claim your father as a dependent?
I hope you get appeals done faster.
I have been a part of the military all my life and I have served for the full amount of time.and when I needed the VA I was given the run around and I almost always have to do my own footwork to get anywhere. I have been deployed all over the world and I never had a problem with anything while I was active, so why is that commitment not The same for Veterans.
I am a retired veteran with a service connected disability. I receive my primary care from the Veteran’s Administration, but use Tricare For Life to fill prescriptions. I am pleased with the support received from both organizations but it seems that there is no sharing of information between the Veteran’s Administration and Tricare For Life. The VA physician has to hand write scripts for me to hand cary to a Tricare For Life provider. Since both organizations support veterans, they should be able to automate the sharing of medical records including prescriptions.
You might check with one of the go-to guys at your VA, but I believe VA and military are in process now of combining all into one…!
I retired from VA 10 years ago after 32 years, 10 as an adjudicator and rating specialist, and 22 in public affairs. I have had a claim and appeal pending for nearly six and a half years. Whether I am successful with my appeal or not, I hope the new VBA under secretary comes to believe as I do that, just like justice, benefits delayed are benefits denied.
If you haven’t filed for VA Disability yet you need to. Doesn’t matter when your service ended but you need to file a claim. Visit your local DAV or VA rep and have them help you fill out the paperwork. That will be your starting point. Get your service connected disability then you can start using the VA health care to assist you. Best of luck.
I severely injured my back while working on a B52 in 1968. By 1978 I needed back surgery. It was done at a VA hospital. While there, the VA rep came by and I filed a claim. It took so long to receive an answer I had to write my senator to find the answer. The claim was denied, he wrote me, because my files were burned in a Kansas City fire. Well, whose fault is that? Anyway, I found out in 2001 that was untrue. I filed for my records under the Freedom of Information Act and received them! So, a total lie was used to deny me.I filed again. I was denied again. Reason:I waited too long to file. I am now 72 and suffered back pain my entire life. I discouraged both my sons from joining, lest they die in a pseudo war, lose an arm, leg or both, and never receive compensation or even an APOLOGY from our government! Oh, yeah, there’s a great looking wall in D.C. My name was almost on it! I love and respect our servicemen and vets. But their employer stinks!
aks for a washington hearing in washing ton , i fought for 14 years and it was in washington i got my 10% don’t rely on your district .. i apply for that washington hearing in 1995 and got it in 2000 if you use the DAV it may help make it quicker on you good luck and lord bless your way. don’t quit that what they want you to do.. We need a vet march on washington.. The president can sigh all the documents he want if the districts don’t implement them it mean nothing
Take your complaint to a DAV VSO.
Remember, you must be 100% service connected to receive dental care.
I was in the Army in 1963 to 1965 in Germany. They pulled all of my upper teeth and sent me out on a 20 mile march. I could not eat for 2 weeks. I’m disabled and on social security. I cant get the VA to help me and now my bottom teeth are bad and I cant afford to get them fixed. Can you help me?
I’ve been fighting for over 9 years to get mine fixed I think it’s a shame a vet should have to do with out dental care especially since infection can kill.
A veteran should not have to apply for disability benefits. A review of the veterans medical records upon discharge or retirement should be enough for any expert to determine compensation. Most veterans are entitled to something but unaware because of a lack of knowledge of what they are eligible for. If you want to help veterans be proactive and tell them first. Hey based on your medical records your entitled to this. Now that a service any organization can be proud of.
Now, If you don’t ask or file for any benefit you won’t receive any , plus if we are not aware of other benefits no one tells you! I was granted ssi because of service connected Total knee replacement but still not awarded unemployable thru VS!
They have been doing board reviews at discharge for years, medicated by lawyers to ensure proper ratings. Conditions worsen over time and Veterans are encouraged to apply for disability rating increases. It is not the Governments job to track outside private care and update disability ratings.
That is fine for “new age veterans “ use that term as anyone who served in Cold War and back Vietnam Korea or WW2 are on their own and have to fight another battle to get anything. If one is not proactively pushing to get records, notes care or other you are left out. A departing veteran today’s military get a Med board only if they ask, and half have no idea how to prepare for, ,,,, trust me I know firsthand and the veteran and his family lose if by the time things get Thur there is a family. There is not enough space to even begin explain the horrible treatment given to vets if get good service and care once does not mean will continue or get again most of time have to refresh and start at ground zero. GUESS I BETTER Chill out or I will be censured again by th VA political correctness police …
Contact your VA primary care doctor immediately when you know you are going or as soon as possible. Use emessaging, it is documented proof. Call nearest VA medical center and ask for Non VA Care ext. Tell them. It has to be within 72 hours of when you went for care. I only got this after 4 visits. The last visit was after a VA doctor called to warn me he saw changes ib my scan and if I felt certain symptoms to get to the emergency room. I still had to fight. Even then I had to take the bill and proof I contacted VA the VSO, county veterans service officer to request payment. Good ending after it was placed against my credit. VA paid it. Hospital would not bill them directly and still tried to get more money.
What is the status of including hypothyroidism to the list of agent orange disabilities that was going to be announced last November, 2017?
I have been asking the same question about expanding the presumptive list for several months to no avail. No body seems to have an answer.
Thanks for your service. I draw disibility 10 percent ony knees. Being so for years. Not much. I apply for more over a year ago on my hearing. The test show pretty low on my right ear I wearing geting worsas deny and my hear at times geting worse I work as a engineer chief for years and I know that effect my hearing but anyway I was deny. Benefits. Again thank for seeing.
Mr. McDougall
All you need to do is contact the hospital billing office for them to summit the bills to your VA hospital and they give them a call in the community care office.
How do I handle the costs/bills from an unplanned Emergency Room visit?
Dan R McDougall
Danny if you had an unplanned emergency room visit at a hospital outside of the VA then you can send the bill to the administration they should cover that. Every veteran has two unplanned visits to the emergency room that they do not have to pay for in a year that is at a hospital other than the VA.
That’s what I would like to know!!!
Danny, Take the bills to the administration department for external services/emergency at your VAMC. It is time sensitive, so do it very soon.
If you notified your VA DOC within 24 hours, take your bills, Med records, etc., and find the Veterans’ Advocate or other admin person dedicated to explain how that all works! It worked for me a year ago. Between my health insurance, mediCal/Medicare, and my LING TERM CARE policy, I ended up paying a few thou of the $480K costs!!
I DID NOT KNOW THAT
I’ve asked those who should know and they couldn’t tell me
How messed up is that?
What happened to Aid and Attendance pay to care for your father?
Aid & Attendance and Housebound – Pension
http://www.benefits.va.gov/pension/aid_attendance_housebound.asp
or surviving spouse may not receive Aid and Attendance benefits and Housebound benefits at the same time. Aid & Attendance (A&A) The Aid & Attendance
Aid and Attendance Housebound – Pension
http://www.benefits.va.gov/pensionandfiduciary/pension/aid_attendance_housebound.asp
Aid and Attendance benefits and Housebound benefits at the same time. Aid & Attendance (A&A) The Aid & Attendance (A&A) increased monthly pension
Chapter 2 Non-health care Benefits – Office of Public and Intergovernmental Affairs
http://www.va.gov/opa/publications/benefits_book/chapter_2_non_healthcare_benefits.asp
Allowance for Aid and Attendance or Housebound Veterans: Veterans determined by VA to be in need of the regular aid and attendance of another
News Rel
Yeah I attempted to get reimbursed for an emergency room visit, never happened. They said I should have gone to the nearest V.A. hospital which was 100 miles away. Hard to make it to a hospital when you can’t see to drive. Would love a reimbursement on that…
Are you service connected? Was it reported to VA within the 24-48 hours?
Take your complaint to a DAV VSO.
You have 3 days from going into the ER and also being admitted or not to contact Fee Basis at the VA. They do have a direct number at your VA Hospitals. Ask the operator to connect you to Feel Basis Office.
Owing those who served? As a veteran, I have to help my father and yet I don’t get the dependent pay? You sir are WRONG!!! I understand that all veterans should get the help that they need but every 22 days we lose 22 soldiers. I myself is almost got into the same boat. I have to wait time and time again waiting for benefits that try to make ends meet. I’m getting 40% disability and yet its not enough to help with everything that I have to do to help my father. I don’t know what you people are doing but keep checking about the difference between soldiers committing suicide and not getting the help they rightfully need. Thanks a lot for nothing and I guess that I’m just blowing smoke out of NOTHING!!
It’s “Cart Blanche”! Mont Blanc is the name of a very expensive pen!
…and Mel Blanc was a great cartoon voice over guy!!
I am a Service Officer for the past 35 years, You can also claim your father in “Aid and Attendance, wont be much but it may help you.
Good Luck
Thank you. At first I thought they gave every VA employee a new pen. And thinking, that’s about right. I’m a 100% disabled Vietnam combat service related permanent and total veteran. It takes 90 days for me to get a CT scan. 90 days for any specialized service. There is some magical about 90 with the VA. Never give up, fight for your benefits. I wnt thru a VSO at the DAV. It took me 8 years, but I got mine.And service At 90 day intervals.
my husband applied for benefits and was denied, we than went to DAV for them to refile with letter from his Dr. she said it was perfect and just what she needed. well after waiting for over a year I contacted John McCain’s office and was told additional paper work was needed and it was over 90 days so case was closed! We never received anything from the VA stating this. It’s now about 5 years from orig. file and he is now too sick to fight any more.
At leased you are getting 40 %.I am 72 and have been fighting the VA for over 30 Years.Was Retired from the Army and awarded 10 % that was taken from me ,but later, re instated.After contacting my Congressman.I have Cancer and other ailments and am taking care of my Wife with Parkinsons Decease. I am not complaining.But ,I hope ,the new Guy will clean House.Since some Veterans receiving a high Percentage with no issues. You have to join the right Organizations to be taking care off.For me,I am to proud ! And good luck to you with your Father.
My name is Timothy A.Young I am a 10% for my back it is so messed up,plus i broke my tail bone while i was in the army,i was a PTSD victim but the records covered my medical records up by scratching out vital Dr. findings and act like i was not hurt while in peace time.they treat vets that have not been in conflict different to.i getting older and the problems are getting worst.tell me how can i get help for these problems on top of that they charge me copayments.tell me what is wrong with this.
Dude, first of all (Don’t Give Up)!!! That’s what they want you to do. Research the VA cfr’s and remember the back is all rated on ROM(range of motion). This is how far you can bend. Always stop when you feel pain!!!! That’s what they don’t tell you. I’ve learned the hard way with six herniated disks! They don’t care about how bad your back is, it’s all about ROM. Took me 25 years to get to 80%. Look at this website (community. Hadit. Com) or google hadit.com. Great information there. Hope you get this message.
You have been fighting 30 + Hell I got lawyers and they couldn’t get me above 10%.
Siteing the Army can find any reports of my problem over 8 years of Honorable Condition.
Life is hell. Then we fade away.
Tilo Stanley …. No issues ??!! Took me 42 years to get my 100% ,, get your head out of your arse and claim something better than John Kerry’s hang nail and maybe you will get there, We would have fragged the like of you wuss. [ BTW in typical government fashion , this blogs captcha takes 4 tries to work, is it case sensitive ? ]
I know exactly what you are saying. My husband has passed but I was his caregiver for over 10 years getting nothing. He was 100%. I was given advice from a friend. I then told the VA social worker I would divorce my husband of 37 years if they didn’t cough up the Aid & Attendance. She knew I meant it. I don’t know if it’s true but it was advised the amount is taken out of the amount from the 100%. That could be a lie. He died while it all was being worked out. I never got a penny for all the years I took care of him.
Well said , I have been waiting for 9yrs for benefits
Veterans Hospitals were given Mont Blanc over any and ALL affairs without receiving repercussions from the Government Agencies that fund them.MAKE ALL Federal Government Entities Adhere to a Guideline of EXPECTABILITY AND RESPONSIBILITY. They need ALL Facilities to Adhere to the same EXPECTATION.
I was sitting inside my local VA Clinic with an impacted tooth so bad I couldn’t drive everyone agreed I needed antibiotics before the dentist could see me at Saginaw a hundred and forty miles south ….my doctor at the clinic Dr. Gary Trudell would not prescribe me antibiotics and said because it was a tooth problem I still had to drive to Saginaw for the VA and my antibiotics…. I was a hundred percent service-connected
@ Ms Desjardins… I think you meant Carte Blanche not Mont blanc…
Carte Blanche, yes.
My father, who passed away just about a year ago, age 82, was bedridden at home for about 12 years with Alzheimer’s and conditions that included multiple wounds from his participation in the Korean War.
He never saw all the medals he was awarded including the Purple Heart. It wasn’t until he was too ill when because of our letters to VA we received about 9 medals with his name engraved. So sad about this. He was a great man. An English teacher from San Sebastian, Puerto Rico.
Prescribed a medications Kansas University Neurologist specializing in Sleep disorders on Apr 23!!!! Denied formularies something, that had to go through my primary Physician and a Pharmacist who are not specialist in sleep disorders. I got orders for another med (From The KU doctor she didn’t want to give) that caused me to sleep most of 5 days I took it! The KU Doc the ask again for the first medications, one of them i got in 30 mins. I still have not got the most important medication, almost 2 months now! 2 months!
I’VE REQUESTED HELP FROM PATIENT ADVOCATE, CONGRESSMEN, SENATORS, INCL THE PRESIDENT.
THE WPBVA HAVE DISRESPECTED, IGNORED MY NEEDS, AND AFTER 2 YEARS NEGLECTED TO PROVIDE CARE.
Atlanta is no better VA is a cancer it needs to be abolished on the medical side and made free private care and someone held accountable on the benefits side. But they will spend millions on art and employee bonuses
I wish someone would look at my appeals and evidence provided. I am in need of my benefits……….