What can I do to get help from the VA?

2015-04-25T03:29:03-04:00

In jan of 2005 I was in shindand Afghanistan when I got injured, blunt force trama to the left side of my face knocked me off a water tower that just about killed me,... To those soldiers that took charge and got me to the doc. I can never tell you enough, Thank you. I have never been one to say I'm a hero, I believe we are normal people trying to do our best in an very unique situation as a firefighter I've had several soldiers thank me for what I did, it humbled me when I was the one on the stretcher, looking up and seeing your faces in that scary situation, I was glad you were there. Anyways, my teeth were to put it mildly were in a great need of attention. The military concentrated on getting walking normally again and correcting a few other issues. I was told the va would take care of the dental. But it's been 10+ years and I am quite upset with the process! they have turned me down every year for an injury I incurred in the line of duty. I really don't know what else to do. Please help me I do not know what else to do and I can not afford the civilian doctors.

Response by SPC Jan Allbright, M.Sc., R.S. made Apr 25 at 2015 9:26 AM

2015-04-25T09:26:47-04:00

Locate your local VA Office .. If you are in a remote location see if there is a satellite office.
Dig out your 214 .. If you don't have a 214 you can get one from the NRPC in about 10 days.
Understand that the "new and improved" VA is a tiered system. All veterans fit somewhere in this ranking, but having a Purple Heart, Service Connected (50% and 20%) disability will move you up the stack.
To sign up for VA benifits you need to fill out a Form which can be filed on-line.
As 1LT L S says, roll down to the VFW and contact the Service Officer. Also seriously consider joining and helping others!

Here are some links
VA Healthcare
http://explore.va.gov/health-care2
NRPC (Records)
http://www.archives.gov/veterans/military-service-records/

You can also get your entire file from NRPC which should include your medical stuff.

Good luck and thank you for your service.

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Response by CWO3 Private RallyPoint Member made Apr 27 at 2015 5:20 PM

2015-04-27T17:20:41-04:00

Have you appealed the Va's decision on your dental claim? If not why? If you believe that this was caused by your service and it is in your medical records showing this, then I see know reason for their denial. I would appeal if you haven't already. If the one year date of your denial pasted. Then reopen your claim and reference what you did and what the VA said. But you need to request all of your records from the VA. Your Claims-File and Your Medical Records and from DOD. You can ask this under the Freedom of Information Act. Find a respectable Service Officer who will fight for your cause. Hope this helps. James

Response by MAJ Ken Landgren made Apr 28 at 2015 12:34 PM

2015-04-28T12:34:19-04:00

The Veterans Affairs Representative has helped me immensely. He is like the magic man.

Response by SPC Brian Nou made Apr 29 at 2015 7:31 AM

2015-04-29T07:31:45-04:00

I feel your pain. Literally. I just got rejected by the VA because I make too much. Health insurance isn't covering the expenses and it costs too much out of pocket.