Cancer treatment: VA or civilian facility?

Maj Kim Patterson — Sat, 20 Jun 2015 02:47:32 -0400

Loads of health issues for many vets. With the new card to receive care if it is not available in a timely manor or the distance to the VA is a factor, I believe will having bearing on your choice. Did this have any bearing on your choice?

Response by MAJ Matthew Arnold made Jun 20 at 2015 3:55 AM

MAJ Matthew Arnold — Sat, 20 Jun 2015 03:55:24 -0400

I go to the George E. Wahlen VA Medical Center in Salt Lake City. The care there is very good. The wait times there are little in most cases. I suspected I had skin cancer on the face. (California boy got too much sun and army man got too much sun.) I got into the Dermatology clinic in a couple weeks, they took care of the simple stuff right then and there. They referred me to the University of Utah Medical Center for the surgery on my face. All in all it was a very good experience. At this point, with what I know, I would rather go thru the VA if I have to do it again in the future.

Response by CSM Michael J. Uhlig made Jun 20 at 2015 6:21 AM

CSM Michael J. Uhlig — Sat, 20 Jun 2015 06:21:30 -0400

Quality of care is the top priority of course. Then convenience of location. If at all possible, I'd stay with those that spoke my language (the VA) but if the quality of care is lacking, I'd suggest commuting further for the best care.

Response by CPT Bruce Rodgers made Jun 20 at 2015 1:35 PM

CPT Bruce Rodgers — Sat, 20 Jun 2015 13:35:45 -0400

If I would have waited to get into the VA, I might not be here now. In 2013 My VA Doctor suspected that I had leukemia and referred me to hematologist oncology. The appointment was six months off. I went to a private oncologist and was diagnosed and completed treatment by the time I would have made the first VA appointment