where can a veteran turn?

Question

I have been going to the va for years. The doctors there all seem not to care about what causes your pain. they just want to get you in and get credit for having you there. Where can a vet turn when the care they get is not the care they need. I am sick and no one is listening to my complaint's. each day gets worse and i can not get help. where can i turn, does anyone know.

Answer 1

You can file a complaint with the hospital director---the doctors MUST respond to the complaint. You can also file a complaint with the Veterans Commission at your Regional Headquarters and get an advocate that will look into the matter. You have an absolute right to competent medical care. If you are not getting it, then the only way to get the situation changed is to complain through channels. You will get a response faster than you expect. Do not be concerned about the feelings of the people who are bungling your case---they obviously do not care about your suffering. I have dealt with the VA Hospital here in Houston for years, so I know your frustration. Raise hell, sister, just like you use to in the military! It is the only time that they listen.

Answer 2

VA services seem to vary by location in the country. My father had a stroke and then they found incurable lung cancer. He spent the last five years of his life in the Alvin C. York VA home in Murfreesboro, Tennessee. He hated being wheelchair bound, but he received excellent medical care in a clean and modern facility. If the care is really bad where you are, go see your local congress persons local office. the staff can help.

Answer 3

I don't know where you have been going but I have been getting some of the best care given anywhere at the VAMC in Minneapolis.

If your a Vet you can contact a VFW, American Legion or DAV Post and ask for someone to help you in your problem. If worse comes to worse, contact your Congressman for assistance.

Answer 4

When you make your next appointment take a list with you. Address each item on the list. You may also need to see a psychiatrist. Maybe your ailments are all in your head. The VA does an excellent job. There are some people who just complain.

What are you doing to help out this situation? Do you smoke? Do you drink? Do you eat unhealthy processed food? Do you eat fast food? Do you exercise? Are you taking care of yourself or are you just sitting on your butt complaining about every ailment? What are Y O U doing?

Answer 5

I'd like to refer you to my favorite place to go for answers to all my questions regarding Veteran's Benefits (I have some from time to time as I am one and I rate many).

The Veteran's Benefits Network
http://p203.ezboard.com/bvetbenefits

You'll have to register, but it's all free and has a loyal userbase that is kind and helpful to no end.
Good luck in getting your pain managed - Don't cut the VA any slack!

Answer 6

well, you could go see a regular doctor and pay out of pocket..also, request a different doctor at your VA...my dad wasnt pleased with his results from the VA he was going to...so he found the next one closest to him and has been happy ever since

Answer 7

try changing the VA hospital that your using

Answer 8

Doctors cannot do anything about your getting older.

It is your responsibility for staying as healthy as you can.

Keep your weight down, eat smaller portions, eliminate smoking and alcohol if you indulge, take your medicine as required, get plenty of exercise if you are able.

Answer 9

you will have to pay, but I got myself a "real" doctor mot employed by VA at my local hospital

Answer 10

First of all, I wish to thank you most sincerely for having served our country, and I give many thanks and total support for all vets and currently serving US soldiers, and in answering your question unless you have done so already, then I suggest that you contact your congressman/woman.