Tips for a Newbie to the VA HealthCare system

Sgt Sherry Taylor-Bruce — Thu, 11 Dec 2014 17:46:00 -0500

Does anyone have any tips for me? My first appointment is next week.

Response by PO1 Private RallyPoint Member made Dec 11 at 2014 10:33 PM

PO1 Private RallyPoint Member — Thu, 11 Dec 2014 22:33:03 -0500

I'm assuming you're talking about your C&P exam (Compensation & Pension)? Don't fret - stay calm. It's a simple process. No need to try and fake it - they've probably seen every trick in the book.

If you're talking about your first visit to see/meet your team & doctors - easy! There's usually an indoctrination seminar/class and some basics such as eligibility questionaire and your picture for your healthcare ID.

My question is: who is your advocate?

Response by Sgt Sherry Taylor-Bruce made Dec 11 at 2014 11:35 PM

Sgt Sherry Taylor-Bruce — Thu, 11 Dec 2014 23:35:50 -0500

I guess I really am a newbie, what do you mean by advocate?

Response by SrA Andrea West made Dec 12 at 2014 6:21 AM

SrA Andrea West — Fri, 12 Dec 2014 06:21:12 -0500

Go see a service officer, American Legion, Veterans of Foreign Wars, Disabled American Veterans, etc. They can help you navigate the system.

Response by Sgt Sherry Taylor-Bruce made Dec 20 at 2014 2:50 PM

Sgt Sherry Taylor-Bruce — Sat, 20 Dec 2014 14:50:05 -0500

Now that I've seen my new primary care Dr at my local VA clinic I have more questions for y'all. My Orientation isn't scheduled until February and I want to know more about co-pays. My priority group is 5 because my income is basically below poverty level. I have referrals for Oncologist, Opthalmologist, Mental Health and tests for things like Bone density. The Dr wrote scripts for five medications I was prescribed by my civilian doctors previously. I expect co-pays for meds. What can I expect for Doctor visits and tests?

Also will VA pay if I need cataract surgery caused by cancer medication?

I work with a VA Claims Examiner for benefits assistance but I don't want to wait to catch her on the phone during this holiday week. My booklet only lists copays for hospital stays.

I'm new to the VA system because until now I was able to use civilian insurance. Now due to a job loss, breast cancer, being widowed. I used up all my savings and can't afford insurance any more. Hopefully VA can take care of me now.

Response by SPC Chris Carlsen made Dec 20 at 2014 10:43 PM

SPC Chris Carlsen — Sat, 20 Dec 2014 22:43:23 -0500

Apply for everything that is an issue for you at once. DO NOT apply for one thing at a time. Have all your service records in order. You are your own advocate. It will take anywhere from 6 months to a year to get a response and/or rating. I have fought for 5 years to get my rating. If your medical records are complete make sure you keep a copy for yourself, things tend to disappear out of them when the VA gets a hold of them. Whenever you turn in something yourself i.e. mailed in, send it certified that way in a year when you have to reapply you can prove your original turn in date from your certified receipt. They will only back date to the day you filed the claim.

Response by MAJ Ken Landgren made Apr 19 at 2015 5:52 PM

MAJ Ken Landgren — Sun, 19 Apr 2015 17:52:55 -0400

Your Case Manager will be connective tissue with the VA. The VSO will explain you benefits and conduct appeals for you. Good luck!