2021 Veterans Day Q&A with U.S. Secretary of Veterans Affairs, Denis McDonough

U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs — Thu, 11 Nov 2021 02:10:28 -0500

Over the past few weeks, the VA worked to answer more than 400 questions below on: Inflation, Burn Pits, Mental Health Services, Disability Claims, Medical Marijuana, Caregivers and Survivors, Community Care, Billing, Post-9/11 GI Bill, LGBTQ+, Electronic Healthcare Record, COVID-19, Dental, and Homeless Veterans.

On Veterans Day, Secretary McDonough directly responded to 9 RallyPoint member questions below. These responses are pinned below in green boxes.

Response by SMSgt Henry Kiester made Oct 15 at 2021 4:40 PM

SMSgt Henry Kiester — Fri, 15 Oct 2021 16:40:48 -0400

Not a question, but I would like to commend the SLC, Utah VA hospital - every experience I have had with (them) has been awesome.

Response by CPT David Gowel made Oct 15 at 2021 5:20 PM

CPT David Gowel — Fri, 15 Oct 2021 17:20:06 -0400

Mr. Secretary - Thank you for taking the time to answer RallyPoint Veterans' questions. I am an OIF veteran and worry that military-connected caregivers and their children struggle to care for and live with some of our most catastrophically wounded veterans. Can you share how you expect the VA to both identify these struggling caregivers and children and expand programming to support their needs?

Response by CPT Aaron Kletzing made Oct 15 at 2021 5:29 PM

CPT Aaron Kletzing — Fri, 15 Oct 2021 17:29:44 -0400

Sir, thanks for joining us on RallyPoint! My question is this -- how do you think a platform like RallyPoint can play a positive role in helping reduce Veteran suicide and self-harm? If you had a magic wand, what would RallyPoint do in this area?

Response by SGT Private RallyPoint Member made Oct 16 at 2021 2:28 AM

SGT Private RallyPoint Member — Sat, 16 Oct 2021 02:28:49 -0400

Explain why the VA is slow walking Trans health care and hiding services available to Transgender Veterans from them.

Response by Cpl Vic Burk made Oct 16 at 2021 1:07 PM

Cpl Vic Burk — Sat, 16 Oct 2021 13:07:50 -0400

Mr. Secretary, I have no complaints about my local V. A. Hospital other than they can be slow with appointments however, many Veterans complain about sub-standard care at many facilities. What and when is the government going to fix this issue? It may in some cases be the difference between life and death. This is even more true with veterans needing mental health services. A Veteran contemplating suicide can't wait two months for a mental health counselors calendar to open up. A phone call to a suicide hotline is nothing compared to an in person visit. (In my opinion)

Response by PV2 Cara High made Oct 18 at 2021 3:07 PM

PV2 Cara High — Mon, 18 Oct 2021 15:07:53 -0400

When will the VA end the "in person" requirement for Veterans who are using the Post 9/11 GI Bill to get their full housing stipend? It is antiquated and out of date in todays educational systems.

Response by SMSgt Sheila Berg made Oct 18 at 2021 3:10 PM

SMSgt Sheila Berg — Mon, 18 Oct 2021 15:10:55 -0400

Will there be any changes in the Community Care program? Also when will the Medical Records program be updated? All VA referrals for Community Care must be faxed to the Community medical office or hospital. It is not an efficient process.

Response by SPC John Meaders made Oct 18 at 2021 3:11 PM

SPC John Meaders — Mon, 18 Oct 2021 15:11:45 -0400

when can i get an id card that says im eligible to receive medical care in the private sector, instead of going thru a million hoops everytime i see my cancer doctor.

Response by SA Kris Paternoster made Oct 18 at 2021 3:12 PM

SA Kris Paternoster — Mon, 18 Oct 2021 15:12:21 -0400

Mr Secretary thank you for your continued service and dedication. With the rising inflation and increased prices from food to housing will veterans see a significant c.o.l.a. increase in the coming year?

Response by MAJ Bob Gibbard made Oct 18 at 2021 3:12 PM

MAJ Bob Gibbard — Mon, 18 Oct 2021 15:12:53 -0400

I two would like to send a Shout Out For the Ashville NC VA Medical center. I have been using that facility for 20 years and I can not say enough good things about the people who work there.

Response by SA David Guidero made Oct 18 at 2021 3:13 PM

SA David Guidero — Mon, 18 Oct 2021 15:13:50 -0400

Why does Triwest not pay dr bills and when they do they only spend a fraction of the bill I live in a town of 10,000 and no VA hospital I’m staring at a surgical bill for 77,000 and BA paid only 6799 had auth number

Response by PO3 Joshua Schofield made Oct 18 at 2021 3:15 PM

PO3 Joshua Schofield — Mon, 18 Oct 2021 15:15:02 -0400

I was approved for treatment through community care, visits and medication. The VA refuses to cover this very expensive medication for treatment resistant depression called Spravato, (which the VA approved in 2019). The simple solution is to mail it from one VA pharmacy to the provider I am seeing, and the cost is transparent to the veteran. That VA pharmacy says I don’t meet the criteria. Why then did my doctor sign off on the community care referral, and moreover why was it approved, if they don’t want to provide the care?

Response by SSgt Joseph Carroll made Oct 18 at 2021 3:15 PM

SSgt Joseph Carroll — Mon, 18 Oct 2021 15:15:05 -0400

What is the next step that the VA going to do about COVID? It was reported that Gen Colin Powell passed away today from COVID related complications, even though he was fully vaccinated. This has proven to be a vastly horrible thing that nobody is immune from. And even though the medical community has made significant advances, much more still needs to be done.

Response by PO2 Paul Reeve made Oct 18 at 2021 3:15 PM

PO2 Paul Reeve — Mon, 18 Oct 2021 15:15:51 -0400

Sir: Is there any truth that we will get a 6% increase in 2022?

Response by CPO Arthur Weinberger made Oct 18 at 2021 3:16 PM

CPO Arthur Weinberger — Mon, 18 Oct 2021 15:16:46 -0400

My dear mr. secretary,
Currently if a vet has a cavity, cracked or chipped tooth; it takes months to repair the tooth. The damage oftentimes is increased. The chip or crack get larger and sometimes are now decayed.
The cavity grows and often gets infected. Needless to say this increases the man hours the VA
spends on the teeth and cost. If the problem(s) are addressed immediately, the problem ends.
It is a no brainer. Myself and many vets would appreciate solving this problem that has been
ongoing for years. I have lost over 6 teeth since the VA has been treating them.
Thank you kindly in advance for any consideration.
MSC(SS) Arthur Yogy Weinberger USN Retired

Response by SSG Jerry Seippel made Oct 18 at 2021 3:16 PM

SSG Jerry Seippel — Mon, 18 Oct 2021 15:16:48 -0400

When is something going to be done to Compensate all of the Veterans that were EXPOSED Agent Orange and other Chemicals along with Radiation that was BURIED at the Training Areas that were used for TRAINING or the Contamination to the DRINKING WATER by MONSANTO all the Civilians were settled with but not the Veterans.

Response by SGT Mark Kemberling made Oct 18 at 2021 3:16 PM

SGT Mark Kemberling — Mon, 18 Oct 2021 15:16:49 -0400

Why do VA meds cost more than I can get from GoodRx?

Response by Sgt Ronald Argabrite made Oct 18 at 2021 3:17 PM

Sgt Ronald Argabrite — Mon, 18 Oct 2021 15:17:28 -0400

Mr. Secretary, Can you help the Veterans get assistance with gym memberships? I'm a 100 percent disabled Veteran with PTSD and Anxiety. The local VA in Charlotte, NC has no gym to walk or work out. Can you do anting to help us, lots what to do better and loose weight. I have tried several classes but this would help for sure. Thank you sir.

Response by CPL Stephen Hemmert made Oct 18 at 2021 3:18 PM

CPL Stephen Hemmert — Mon, 18 Oct 2021 15:18:04 -0400

I am a disabled combat veteran of the Vietnam War. My wife served in the Women's Army Corp from 1969 to 1971. It is recognized female veterans have a higher incidence of breast cancer than the civilian population of women. My wife served at Fort McClellan, AL. She is a breast cancer survivor. She has had a benign bladder tumor removed. She is not eligible to be under the care of the VA because my service connected disability raises out income above the limits. Otherwise, both she and I would qualify on our combined incomes. Obviously, the VA know nothing about her. She has two friends who served during the Viet Nam period; both had cancer. One died. One is a breast cancer survivor like her, These women are unknown to the VA. Why has the VA not established a breast cancer registry for older women? It is widely believed the VA was male oriented in the 1970's and has never reached out to these women. Basically, they had no voice.

Response by SP5 Christopher Sneed made Oct 18 at 2021 3:18 PM

SP5 Christopher Sneed — Mon, 18 Oct 2021 15:18:09 -0400

Hello sir I used to work in your c level building at 810 Vermont ave why is it so hard for veterans to get a respectable job prior service

Response by TSgt Mike Sharp made Oct 18 at 2021 3:18 PM

TSgt Mike Sharp — Mon, 18 Oct 2021 15:18:30 -0400

Recently I tried to get a dental appointment but I was told it would be more than 60 days before I could be seen. I asked to be seen downtown but was denied by the clinic. I had to make several complaints before I could be seen downtown. How will you ensure that this will not happen to other veterans?

Response by SSgt David Samples made Oct 18 at 2021 3:19 PM

SSgt David Samples — Mon, 18 Oct 2021 15:19:04 -0400

sir as a disabled vet relying on the VA for all medical care, How do I access the VA for health care if living in Thailand[ as I am married to a thai native}

Response by Pvt Judith Martorelli Martorelli made Oct 18 at 2021 3:19 PM

Pvt Judith Martorelli Martorelli — Mon, 18 Oct 2021 15:19:17 -0400

Mr. Secretary,
First, thank you for your service to our country.
My question is, why does the VA only offer assistance with dental needs to only Veterans who are 100% service connected. There are many other Veterans, I for one, who are not service connected that need help with dental issues and do not have dental insurance. I believe that the VA, in addition to the medical care and vision care offered, should offer dental care to ALL Veterans, regardless of service connected status. Can you please do something about this?

Response by SN Charles Wiggins made Oct 18 at 2021 3:19 PM

SN Charles Wiggins — Mon, 18 Oct 2021 15:19:52 -0400

I am being denied Veterans benefits because my records cannot be found. I was told they were lost in a fire. I don't think I should be denied there should be an alternative way I can be counted and get benefits due me. Thank you.

Response by PFC Ronnie Davis made Oct 18 at 2021 3:19 PM

PFC Ronnie Davis — Mon, 18 Oct 2021 15:19:56 -0400

Why the long delay in claiming benefits

Response by SPC N Z made Oct 18 at 2021 3:20 PM

SPC N Z — Mon, 18 Oct 2021 15:20:25 -0400

What is the VA doing to improve the BTSSS portal when every VAMC took away the option to claim mileage from the Check-In KIOSK?
Why is Florida VAMC give better care than other VAMC in the country?
How come many VA employees treat vets like they are a burden to their jobs and workloads?

Response by HN Billy Hoffman made Oct 18 at 2021 3:20 PM

HN Billy Hoffman — Mon, 18 Oct 2021 15:20:36 -0400

Are we ever going to see dental coverage for something other than service connected for those under 100%

Response by SSG Mark Kukas made Oct 18 at 2021 3:20 PM

SSG Mark Kukas — Mon, 18 Oct 2021 15:20:44 -0400

How many points are the Vikings going to score on the Cowboys 10/31/2021?

Response by PO3 Michael J Weyhrauch made Oct 18 at 2021 3:20 PM

PO3 Michael J Weyhrauch — Mon, 18 Oct 2021 15:20:55 -0400

When will the VA adjust its stand poibt tp provide medical marijuana for service members with qualifying conditions?

Response by TSgt Jeff Henson made Oct 18 at 2021 3:21 PM

TSgt Jeff Henson — Mon, 18 Oct 2021 15:21:28 -0400

Mr. Secretary - How can your organization be The National Center for PTSD, when the DAV just donated $1,000,000 to Save A Warrior to create the National Center of Excellence for PTSD. See link. https://www.globenewswire.com/en/news-release/2020/11/10/2123592/0/en/DAV-s-Charitable-Service-Trust-provides-a-1M-grant-to-support-veterans-suicide-prevention.html

If there were an organization that the DAV would both identify and support as the National Center of Excellence for PTSD, I would have thought that would be the United States Department of Veteran Affairs. Just as puzzling, what is the plan for the VA to acknowledge the care received @ Save A Warrior and authorize said organization as a treatment facility for veterans with Complex PTSD? It seems that Public Law Public Law 104-191, The Veterans Comprehensive Prevention, Access To Care, And Treatment Act Of 2020 would be a logical place for Save A Warrior's program to be reviewed, a pilot created and subsequently funded.

DAV’s Charitable Service Trust provides a $1M grant to support veterans suicide prevention

COLD SPRING, KY., Nov. 10, 2020 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) -- The DAV (Disabled American Veterans) Charitable Service Trust has awarded a $1 million grant to Save...

Response by Maj Rob McCarthy made Oct 18 at 2021 3:22 PM

Maj Rob McCarthy — Mon, 18 Oct 2021 15:22:41 -0400

A lot of private health insurance companies give discounts or pay for health club memberships. It's good for the health insurance companies because the more people who stay in shape, the less health insurance will be used. Would you look into the VA providing veterans in the VA health system the same health club memberships as private insurers.

Response by Cpl Burton Fletcher made Oct 18 at 2021 3:23 PM

Cpl Burton Fletcher — Mon, 18 Oct 2021 15:23:23 -0400

Why is the Valdosta VA unable to access my records online at South Georgia Medical Center?! It would seem to me that this should be fundamental as part of my healthcare.

Response by CPL John LaVelle made Oct 18 at 2021 3:24 PM

CPL John LaVelle — Mon, 18 Oct 2021 15:24:04 -0400

Other than your extensive political career, what connections do you have to American Veterans that empowers you to seek to guide the agency built to serve their needs?

Response by MSG Ray Juneau made Oct 18 at 2021 3:25 PM

MSG Ray Juneau — Mon, 18 Oct 2021 15:25:19 -0400

Why isn’t there a portal for veterans to obtain copies of all C&P exams and related documents rather than requesting via FOIA? I submitted a request over four months ago and still haven’t received my documents.

Response by CMSgt Donald Doty made Oct 18 at 2021 3:25 PM

CMSgt Donald Doty — Mon, 18 Oct 2021 15:25:37 -0400

Honorable McDonough, why does it take so long to get Thailand veterans approved for Herbicides/Agent Orange? I launched and recovered aircraft from the end of the runways. I lived in a hooch 75-100 feet from the perimeter fence for a year. Both areas were sprayed to kill the areas for security reasons. .

Response by LCpl Geoff Heil made Oct 18 at 2021 3:25 PM

LCpl Geoff Heil — Mon, 18 Oct 2021 15:25:58 -0400

Secretary McDonough, I would like to know why getting mental health care for veterans is filled with so much red tape? As a veteran that was fortunate enough to survive a suicide attempt, I found the process to be filled drawn out, tedious and all around pain in the arse. Only to be turned away and denied in the end. I now know why so many veterans don’t get mental health care. Thank you for your time in this matter.

Response by WO1 Jason Lloyd made Oct 18 at 2021 3:26 PM

WO1 Jason Lloyd — Mon, 18 Oct 2021 15:26:59 -0400

Question 1
Hines VA in Illinois is my hospital. The hospital has determined that I need chiropractic care for extreme back / neck pain. The hospital community care initially authorized two visits a week and have now reduced it to 6 visits in 6 months. This has not been enough to keep the pain at bay. My chiropractor and VA doctor want the adjustments to be weekly. Community care said 6 visits in 6 months is all that is currently authorized per policy without exception. My question is can this be increased to at least 52 for the year?

Question 2
The Hines Oral Surgery had told me that I would have corrective surgery for a hole in my sinus, service connected, but have since taken me of the surgery schedule and no longer want to do the surgery. Hines Oral surgery is no longer returning my calls. My dentist and civilian oral surgeon still believes the surgery is necessary. This has been going on for almost 4 years. Community care said oral surgery outside of the VA is not authorized. My question is will oral surgery be authorized through community care to get this resolved since the VA is now refusing?

Response by PO1 Private RallyPoint Member made Oct 18 at 2021 3:27 PM

PO1 Private RallyPoint Member — Mon, 18 Oct 2021 15:27:04 -0400

Mr. Secretary- Thank you for allowing me to ask my question.
The Navy is back logged on getting service members their DD-214. I will transition out of military service with no expected date to receive my DD-214. Is there any other documentation that would suffice to get my benefits started ASAP.

Response by SPC Deon Herron made Oct 18 at 2021 3:27 PM

SPC Deon Herron — Mon, 18 Oct 2021 15:27:25 -0400

Why is the VA disabiltiy so hard to navigate and so hard to to get approved with in a timely manner?

Response by SSgt Matthew Lee made Oct 18 at 2021 3:27 PM

SSgt Matthew Lee — Mon, 18 Oct 2021 15:27:42 -0400

What is being done or what can the VA do to help homeless veterans? The numbers seem to be continuing to rise and a large number of them are disabled veterans that need care, medications and treatment.

Response by Zoraida Colon Collado made Oct 18 at 2021 3:29 PM

Zoraida Colon Collado — Mon, 18 Oct 2021 15:29:37 -0400

Given the mounting research that proves that hyperbaric chamber treatment relieves the severity of TBI,PTSD and depression, WHEN is the VA going to get on the ball and approve it? These guys are committing suicide every day so it's obvious drugs and groups are NOT helping a lot of people. When?!

Response by PO1 John Strain made Oct 18 at 2021 3:30 PM

PO1 John Strain — Mon, 18 Oct 2021 15:30:03 -0400

Sir-I submitted a claim over a year ago in the case styled Wolfe v. Wilkie, and have been unable to find anyone within the VA system who can give me any idea of the status of the claim, or when it may be paid. How can I find out?

Response by PO2 Stephen Esker made Oct 18 at 2021 3:30 PM

PO2 Stephen Esker — Mon, 18 Oct 2021 15:30:16 -0400

Why is that not a standard, universal data system between locations? And why is there no way to evaluate PC doctors.

Response by PO3 David Sparke made Oct 18 at 2021 3:30 PM

PO3 David Sparke — Mon, 18 Oct 2021 15:30:38 -0400

Why is every VA system separate when it comes to updating information. I spend time at 2 locations and it is ridiculous that when I change me address for benefits it does not change for Pharmacy. Since everything is under on SS# all systems should change together. It seems to be more unnecessary bureaucracy.

Response by SSgt Allan Tamarkin made Oct 18 at 2021 3:30 PM

SSgt Allan Tamarkin — Mon, 18 Oct 2021 15:30:48 -0400

I 100% love the care I get at the CT VA facility in West Haven! I am an AF vet and I am 68 years old. As a result I also pay for Medicare. I don't have a problem with paying for Medicare as a backup as I view the VA care as a privilege in exchange for my service. I also enjoy the fact that the VA can get some reimbursement from Medicare for the care provided at the VA. What I'd like to have happen is greater coordination of VA care with Medicare. To have Medicare recognize the VA as an approved facility and have better coordination with the VA for all aspects related to health care. Please note that I have no problem with continuing my Medicare payments! It is not a disagreement with cost. Please consider this idea in the future and I look forward to your views.

Response by SP5 David Aswad made Oct 18 at 2021 3:30 PM

SP5 David Aswad — Mon, 18 Oct 2021 15:30:51 -0400

Sir, I am a Vietnam Veteran, exposed to agent orange, I have bladder cancer which was found in 2010, I have been treated by our local VA hospital since then. I filed a claim in 2010 and was advised that Bladder Cancer was not under Agent Orange. This past year Congress under the Defense Authorization Bill, added Bladder Cancer, Hyperthiroidism and Hypertension to the Agent Orange list. Now that Bladder Cancer is list under Agent Orange, I have attempted several times to find out the status of my claim only to be told it is under "status review". Is the Veterans Administration waiting for the thousands of Vietnam Veterans to die so it does not have to pay our Claims.

Most likely I will not receive a response to this request.

Response by CPL Karl Billhardt made Oct 18 at 2021 3:31 PM

CPL Karl Billhardt — Mon, 18 Oct 2021 15:31:20 -0400

The Columbia SC travel pay told me the reason they are 5 months behind on paying my claims is because money has not been put into the fund. Is this true?

Response by 1SG Crissy Robeson made Oct 18 at 2021 3:31 PM

1SG Crissy Robeson — Mon, 18 Oct 2021 15:31:28 -0400

Sir, first off, thank
You for accepting the challenge to assist all who have served our country honorably. My question: what is the VA doing to expand the current level of nursing homes and assisted living facilities fir our aging veteran population? More and more of our veterans are going to need assisted living facilities in the very near future (20-25 years). We will need more skilled and unskilled nursing facilities to house those who have their all to serve this great nation. Thank you for your consideration of this important question.

Response by SFC Johnny Adams made Oct 18 at 2021 3:31 PM

SFC Johnny Adams — Mon, 18 Oct 2021 15:31:28 -0400

Do you uphold the constitution and the rights of soldiers? If so how do you justify forced drugs? Especially when a high % die from it.

Response by Maj Stan Magryta made Oct 18 at 2021 3:33 PM

Maj Stan Magryta — Mon, 18 Oct 2021 15:33:09 -0400

Why isn't self medication, using over the counter pain medication NOT considered "continuity of care"?????

Response by PO2 Steven Lundgrin made Oct 18 at 2021 3:34 PM

PO2 Steven Lundgrin — Mon, 18 Oct 2021 15:34:32 -0400

Mr. Secretary, will the VA require veterans get the COVID-19 vaccine (and any boosters) as a condition of receiving health care treatment from the VA? Thank you.

Response by PO2 Evert Efaw made Oct 18 at 2021 3:34 PM

PO2 Evert Efaw — Mon, 18 Oct 2021 15:34:38 -0400

The last time I received pen needles from the VA, they were made in Poland. Why can't you buy US-based needles?

The needles are not manufactured in a sanitized environment. They are irradiated after being manufactured to make them sterile.

The VA only provides one size and gauge. The size is not compatible with people such as me, that are on blood thinners, and easily bruise and bleed with the VA gauge. I have to buy needles thru the retail market.

Response by PFC Edgar Mosier made Oct 18 at 2021 3:35 PM

PFC Edgar Mosier — Mon, 18 Oct 2021 15:35:31 -0400

What about those who can't have certain vaccines?
I have an influenza vaccine allergy, so, I'm not allowed the shingles, pleurisy, pneumonia, and like-made vaccines.
Will the VA be considering the immunizations in a pill form, soon?

Response by A1C Joseph Copeland made Oct 18 at 2021 3:35 PM

A1C Joseph Copeland — Mon, 18 Oct 2021 15:35:50 -0400

Sir, thank you for your support to the veterans but I really have to ask this: For the veterans submitted their VA claims,why are there regular folks who has no training in medical field looking at veteran claims where to approve or deny and I don't believe that's fair to all of us as veteran. Especially the Higher Level review as well.

Response by SN Bruce Brent made Oct 18 at 2021 3:36 PM

SN Bruce Brent — Mon, 18 Oct 2021 15:36:14 -0400

I am a veteran living in Las Vegas, NV. Why hasn't anyone from the VA in Washington, D.C. look into the lack of health care of its veterans? The CEO, Bill Caron, has not made himself public, he stays hidden in his office and had NOT made any appearances to make its veterans feel safe. My current primary care doctor is a classic case of being a jerk and NOT caring for his/her veteran patients. The hospital knows this doctor is pathetic and a jerk. I have in my possession, recordings of my semi annual appts. with this doctor which shows that he brates (me and of course other patients), is argumentative. Again, I do have proof. I am just about at my boiling point before I go public (YouTube, local TV stations and the newspaper here in Las Vegas, the Review Journal). Not to worry, when I do go public, I'll be sure to send the administrators at the VA the link to the YouTube letter that is intended for Bill Caron. I really don't wish to put a "black eye" on the So. Nevada VA Health system, but there's no other way to make this point to make the VA administration aware of the abuse veterans are receiving from unqualified/under schooled doctors.

Response by CPL Paul Cooper made Oct 18 at 2021 3:36 PM

CPL Paul Cooper — Mon, 18 Oct 2021 15:36:17 -0400

When a prescribed medication expires it disappears from my list of available refills.
I'm not given warning or informed I can no longer order this med.
Often times weeks will go by before I realize it's missing from my daily regimen.
I've asked the pharmacy about this but no answers have been forthcoming.
It's counter productive to be on a prescribed medication but not be able to take the dose for extended periods of time.

Response by PO2 James Swarts made Oct 18 at 2021 3:37 PM

PO2 James Swarts — Mon, 18 Oct 2021 15:37:51 -0400

Mr. Secretary, Over the past decade, and especially during the last administration, the VA Healthcare system has been gutted. VA Healthcare providers are dedicated, hardworking, individuals who have been stretched thin because of increased workloads and staffing shortages. Outside contract providers are not trained, nor have the expertise, to recognize and treat many of the physical and mental health issues affecting military veterans. What action are you, or will you, take to move Congress to reverse the worse aspects of the USA Mission Act to fully fund the VA Healthcare system, and to fully staff the VA so they can provide the services our veterans need and are entitled to receive?

Response by HN Bob Watts made Oct 18 at 2021 3:37 PM

HN Bob Watts — Mon, 18 Oct 2021 15:37:51 -0400

Why don't the LB VAMC employees wear a name tag in addition to the employee ID card that they never while they're working anyway? In other words, u.s veterans don't know who they are to report when they're disrespectful, or idiots. Because a patient advocate always ask for the name of Who we Are reporting so they know where to send their report. Understand?

Response by MAJ Vincent Foster made Oct 18 at 2021 3:38 PM

MAJ Vincent Foster — Mon, 18 Oct 2021 15:38:00 -0400

Why does the VA support the Gestapo tactics that the military exchange display in there collections department? I will give you an example I had some unauthorized charges on my account I notified them through my attorney they sent me to collections I tried to reason with these people they not only slapped a $2000 fee on top of what I owed the garnish my Social Security wages I ended up bye paying the toll amount instead of fighting them it was a complete nightmare for over two years I think we’re better than this and whoever is giving them a sweetheart deal the collection agency the IG needs to step in and investigate their practices . I’m sure my question will never be given the opportunity to raise this important issue.

Response by SGT T Ross made Oct 18 at 2021 3:38 PM

SGT T Ross — Mon, 18 Oct 2021 15:38:28 -0400

I'm 80% disabled, but can not work full time because of my disabilities. Is there anything in the works to provide dependent medical insurance and benefits for people at least over 50% who can not hold a full time job and therefore provide certain benefits for their dependents?

Response by SPC Will Benson made Oct 18 at 2021 3:39 PM

SPC Will Benson — Mon, 18 Oct 2021 15:39:18 -0400

Why does the VA make it so difficult to re-file a disability claim after being denied? It seems like it is a lost cause to file for a claim I’ve previously been denied for.

Response by James Perry made Oct 18 at 2021 3:39 PM

James Perry — Mon, 18 Oct 2021 15:39:22 -0400

I would like to know I was 70percent unemployable I was awarded 50percent for ptsd they told me since I was already at 100percent I don’t get retroactive pay I’m received 40percent for my back I received 7000 for the 40percent what’s the difference I feel I was overlooked for the 50 percent but yet they gave me back pay for 40 percent that’s not right

Response by Pam Hymer made Oct 18 at 2021 3:40 PM

Pam Hymer — Mon, 18 Oct 2021 15:40:34 -0400

Why did the DEA for spouses and children get reduced from 48mo to 36mo?

Response by LT Lisa Veres made Oct 18 at 2021 3:40 PM

LT Lisa Veres — Mon, 18 Oct 2021 15:40:54 -0400

Secretary McDonough,
I am concerned about the safety of the COVID-19 vaccines for female veterans who are nursing or pregnant. Please share the controlled/ peer reviewed studies that you used to make your decision to encourage pregnant and/or nursing mothers to take the vaccines.

Response by CMDCM Donald Bettner made Oct 18 at 2021 3:41 PM

CMDCM Donald Bettner — Mon, 18 Oct 2021 15:41:03 -0400

Why does it take VA Seattle Community Care five to six months to provide approvals for care in our local communities? We used to have equally poor service with Veterans Choice and this program was supposed to make it better for the Veteran, it just got worse.

Response by SFC John Cousineau Sr. made Oct 18 at 2021 3:41 PM

SFC John Cousineau Sr. — Mon, 18 Oct 2021 15:41:08 -0400

Will you be pushing for medically retired service personnel to get what portion of regular retirement as well as disability payment. Both should be tax free!

Response by SGT Harvey Putterbaugh made Oct 18 at 2021 3:42 PM

SGT Harvey Putterbaugh — Mon, 18 Oct 2021 15:42:27 -0400

Mr.Secretary. Good afternoon. Why does VA NOT vouch for its after hours responders, nurses, for acknowledging a veteran's complaint, pain and suffering and, in error (?), authorizes going to hospital ER for treatment, then denying reimbursement to caregivers who render care And treatment to the veteran claiming they cannot refer or authorizes ER visits. The VA asserts they don't have the authority, only a doctor can refer to ER. Yet the call in is required, But NO doctor is made available, VA denies the care giver claim, suggesting the care giver creditor pursue the nurse for payment. The creditor also pressures the veteran with continual calls acme bill forwarding.and VA does not intervene.

Thank you.

Response by SPC Maxine Anderson made Oct 18 at 2021 3:42 PM

SPC Maxine Anderson — Mon, 18 Oct 2021 15:42:33 -0400

Sir, I would like to know when will the VA investigate management staff who terminated employees without conducting proper investigations as well as not utilizing progressive disciplinary actions before termination.

Response by Cpl David Riddell made Oct 18 at 2021 3:42 PM

Cpl David Riddell — Mon, 18 Oct 2021 15:42:36 -0400

I am a Marine Corps veteran, and a retired civilian. In your opinion, what is the most needed position for a volunteer in the veterans administration?

Response by MSgt Richard Lucero made Oct 18 at 2021 3:42 PM

MSgt Richard Lucero — Mon, 18 Oct 2021 15:42:39 -0400

Why is Community Care not being pushed in all regions? Biloxi VA is not offering outside referrals.

Response by SPC Kenneth Mortensen made Oct 18 at 2021 3:43 PM

SPC Kenneth Mortensen — Mon, 18 Oct 2021 15:43:41 -0400

I submitted a Supplemental claim for disability compensation on July 29th 2021 and the claim has not been updated since July 29th 2021. I would like to ask that the claims be updated weekly or at least monthly.

Response by SSgt Joe Williams made Oct 18 at 2021 3:44 PM

SSgt Joe Williams — Mon, 18 Oct 2021 15:44:20 -0400

Mr. Secretary, with the current drama that is happening in our great country, many veterans are facing foreclosures and homeless. What is the plan of our VA to assist those of us in need of help?

Response by Col John Madison made Oct 18 at 2021 3:44 PM

Col John Madison — Mon, 18 Oct 2021 15:44:59 -0400

With the incredible uptick in VA budget costs over the past two decades, and the need to be realistic about the delivery of care, how in the world can you justify doing gender reassignment surgeries for an issue which is NOT in the line of duty? And add to that all the ancillary mental health treatment costs, etc.

Response by 1LT Elli Work made Oct 18 at 2021 3:45 PM

1LT Elli Work — Mon, 18 Oct 2021 15:45:15 -0400

Secretary McDonough, Thank you for this great opportunity. I am wondering why there is not more information circulating about the Army Rank Correction Review Board for LGBTQ+ veterans. I believe I was denied a promotion because I came out, but then I was "allowed" to retire. Just recently (literally 20 years after retiring) I learned about the review board and am trying to apply.
Thank you for your time and consideration.
iLT Elli Work (R)

Response by PO2 Paul Reeve made Oct 18 at 2021 3:45 PM

PO2 Paul Reeve — Mon, 18 Oct 2021 15:45:22 -0400

I love the McGuire medical center in Richmond Va. I live in Williamsburg Va and would like to see doctors close to me. How do I do that. Although when it comes to cares The VA has been really great in the past couple of years.

Response by Sgt Paul Eckman made Oct 18 at 2021 3:45 PM

Sgt Paul Eckman — Mon, 18 Oct 2021 15:45:33 -0400

va has authorized massage therapy. WHY doesn't VA DURHAM offer it. They say it is not in the system.PLEASE make them offer it, I have been to two accupunturist and they both left needles in me after the process. So, I won't be using them again.
PAUL F ECKMAN
6598

Response by PO1 Frank Connors made Oct 18 at 2021 3:45 PM

PO1 Frank Connors — Mon, 18 Oct 2021 15:45:42 -0400

Why was Charis bible college removed from the VA list of Colleges? My benefits are being stepped on!

Response by PV2 Jean-Pierre Ronet made Oct 18 at 2021 3:46 PM

PV2 Jean-Pierre Ronet — Mon, 18 Oct 2021 15:46:04 -0400

Why are you denying me access to all medical care in this Nation for receiving a medical condition to my nose (can't breath out of it!!) and why have you not responded to my emails? Civil complaint has been filed for hundreds of millions of dollars and your a fraud and lier. All Veterans can get help but me!!!

Response by SSG Daryl Steinback made Oct 18 at 2021 3:46 PM

SSG Daryl Steinback — Mon, 18 Oct 2021 15:46:09 -0400

is there new things for veterans?

Response by TSgt Mike Ruble made Oct 18 at 2021 3:46 PM

TSgt Mike Ruble — Mon, 18 Oct 2021 15:46:36 -0400

When is VBA going to be held accountable for their inaccuracies on service connected disabilities. I had spent 11 yrs. of NODs and then I sent to the BVA, the found fault with the 6 NODs and remanded back to VBA. I am just going to say this BVA judge was not kind to VBA, basically they did not do their jobs. Can you really say that they are here for us Veterans. I believe that since this is a steady paycheck they would do anything to keep the job. What if those that gave up or committed suicide because of VBA gave them a NOD without reviewing the application properly. Thank you

Response by SP5 Charles Rucker made Oct 18 at 2021 3:46 PM

SP5 Charles Rucker — Mon, 18 Oct 2021 15:46:44 -0400

Sir , as the generation of Vietnam Veterans marches to an end ,will you ensure to we aged vets , continued support for chemical irrrepair to our health ?

Response by PV2 Jean-Pierre Ronet made Oct 18 at 2021 3:46 PM

PV2 Jean-Pierre Ronet — Mon, 18 Oct 2021 15:46:56 -0400

Millions more to put on that civil complaint absent any response to this post.. Vietnam Veteran

Response by LTC Stewart Mason made Oct 18 at 2021 3:47 PM

LTC Stewart Mason — Mon, 18 Oct 2021 15:47:13 -0400

HON Secretary McDonough, Thank you for advancing care for all that have served our great nation, My question is: How are you supporting the increasing number of veteran soles and their families to provide a structure supporting safety, access to care and a way forward to re-build their weakened current capabilities?

I had the privilege to work with a well developed civilian team in Homestead, Florida that created a safe and well managed atmosphere that resulted in in real personal responsibility and growth for their families This included; Medical Care, Dental Care, Counseling, Day Care and graduated housing.

Sadly it was closed due to budgetary issues, but with the right leadership and budget, this could greatly support our brothers and sisters. I would be honored to speak with you about this idea and share this vision. This facility has been visited by previous presidents and other political leaders. I am a solution provider with 36 years of service and former Director of Emergency Services (Hospital Setting).

Respectfully, LTC(R) Stewart Mason

Response by LCDR Wayne Hansen made Oct 18 at 2021 3:47 PM

LCDR Wayne Hansen — Mon, 18 Oct 2021 15:47:34 -0400

LCDR Wayne Hansen,
I have been waiting for months to get imaging studies done. I recently went through a humiliating C&P exam and was denied an adjustment of my Service Connected Disabilities. Issues that need attention were flatly denied for consideration. I have had a single person to person visit in over three years.

Response by PO2 Greg Frazier made Oct 18 at 2021 3:47 PM

PO2 Greg Frazier — Mon, 18 Oct 2021 15:47:37 -0400

My Supplemental Claim was filed six months ago and marked RFD five and a half months ago. We keep hearing how much the VA is committed to settling these claims on a timely manner, but all we receive is one promise after another that remains unfulfilled. What are your specific plans and tour specific timeline.

Response by SGT Arthur Norman made Oct 18 at 2021 3:48 PM

SGT Arthur Norman — Mon, 18 Oct 2021 15:48:36 -0400

Will the VA develop electronic vaccination cards acknowledging Covid-19 vaccination?
I would also like to commend Jerry L Pettis VA Medical Facility in Loma Linda CA for their outstanding support to me, personally. They have been a God-send on so many different occasions , I can’t speak highly enough of the dedication. Hoooooah!!

Response by MAJ Charles Covin made Oct 18 at 2021 3:48 PM

MAJ Charles Covin — Mon, 18 Oct 2021 15:48:47 -0400

ChampVA is supposed to provide coverage for disbled veteran’s families. Many providers will not accept it because of glacially slow payments and lack of familiarity with the program. Getting family members registered for the program is a slow, complex and frustrating process causing serious financial problems for veterans who must pay up front for services at a retail rate only to be reimbursed months later at a lower contract rate. Both of these issues are easily solvable by following the example of the Medicare program which contracts with insurance companies to administer the program. Why doesn’t the VA follow this example?

Response by PO2 Michael Epperson made Oct 18 at 2021 3:48 PM

PO2 Michael Epperson — Mon, 18 Oct 2021 15:48:58 -0400

Why doesn't the VA let spouses get medicine through the VA like the Veteran does?
Thank you,
Mike

Response by SN Henri Carnal made Oct 18 at 2021 3:49 PM

SN Henri Carnal — Mon, 18 Oct 2021 15:49:05 -0400

Why does the VA not stock the extra strength flu shot for seniors?

Response by SGT Eric Persons made Oct 18 at 2021 3:49 PM

SGT Eric Persons — Mon, 18 Oct 2021 15:49:52 -0400

Have u had the shot?

Response by LtCol Ronald Rice made Oct 18 at 2021 3:49 PM

LtCol Ronald Rice — Mon, 18 Oct 2021 15:49:57 -0400

Since I retired in 1989 after 23 years Active Duty, I have received 20% VA Service-Connected Disability Benefits. However, due to an unfair U.S. Law, every month since my retirement, the Dept. of Defense has deducted an amount equal to what I receive as my monthly VA Disability Benefit from my Retired Pay. Clearly, there is no justifiable rationale to justify my gaining nothing for my service-connected disability just because I served [AND SACRIFICED FOR] my country long enough to qualify for retirement! Yet, my VA mobility disability has deprived me of playing with my son as he grew up and also caused back and obesity problems which now prevent me from standing more than three minutes or walking more than 30 feet without escalating pain! WHY HAS THE VA NOT GONE ON RECORD TO CONGRESS REQUESTING RECTIFICATION THIS UNJUST AND UNGRATEFUL LAW EFFECTING RETIRED VETS WITH LESS THAN 50% VA DISABILITY IN VIEW OF THE MANY, MANY BUDGETARY EXPENDITURES OF FAR LESSER TRUE PRIORITY, THAT CONGRESS HAS AND CONTINUES TO FUND? RONALD R. RICE, LTCOL USMC RETIRED

Response by PVT Brian Desormeaux made Oct 18 at 2021 3:50 PM

PVT Brian Desormeaux — Mon, 18 Oct 2021 15:50:11 -0400

Sir,
When/if will your team be adding personnel? I read recently that 2200 employees were being hired, however, I curious as to how the new employees would be allocated? The Appeals Management Center needs clerks and adjudicators. I personally have had an appeal ongoing for over 14yrs. Due to the way production is (was) tracked in ASPEN (or whatever it is now) employees were able to "reset" my DOC (date of claim) on my appeal, so that reports would not show my appeal as a big issue. I know this for fact, as I was an employee with the VA Comp/Pension office at RO362 for almost 3yrs. Your explanation would be appreciated.

Respectfully,
Brian D.

Response by PO2 Craig Loomis made Oct 18 at 2021 3:50 PM

PO2 Craig Loomis — Mon, 18 Oct 2021 15:50:13 -0400

I am a man who was sexually assaulted by a fellow sailor but was afraid to come forward during that era (1989 - 1994). I have since filed an MST claim in 2019 but have been repeatedly denied. Now in the 'Me too" era of victims finally getting help for the trauma from past assaults, is the VA going to start acknowledging these assaults and approving MST claims when the assaults were not initially reported while the victim was still in service?

Response by PO2 Rich Adams made Oct 18 at 2021 3:50 PM

PO2 Rich Adams — Mon, 18 Oct 2021 15:50:18 -0400

Thousands of Seabees stationed in Gulfport Mississippi in the mid 1970s were exposed to the Agent Orange stored on base in rusting and leaking drums. Yet the VA refuses to consider type 2 diabetes as presumptive because of the exposure. We likely used contaminated groundwater in drinking and showering. We deserve compensation. We served our nation yet the VA refuses to serve us.

Response by CPL Nelson Miller made Oct 18 at 2021 3:50 PM

CPL Nelson Miller — Mon, 18 Oct 2021 15:50:51 -0400

My annual drug costs would decrease dramatically if the VA allowed me to buy them through Costco.
A Costco membership is NOT required to buy prescription drugs. Free fast shipping.

Response by SGT Bill Braniff made Oct 18 at 2021 3:51 PM

SGT Bill Braniff — Mon, 18 Oct 2021 15:51:03 -0400

Will it be possible for VA disability rates to take a hike , not counting the COLA hikes as sometimes there are no hikes, and also when will the mileage rate be raised? Thanks

Response by CW2 William Melton made Oct 18 at 2021 3:51 PM

CW2 William Melton — Mon, 18 Oct 2021 15:51:46 -0400

having used the VA for 39 years all i hear is how much we have improbed and we are here to serve you. that is incorrect. since my divorce i have been known by the VA as a " traveling vet". as a "traveling vet" i have a hard time getting medical help in that i am a diabetic 100 % disabled due to illnesses. . have been told " i have to save my meds for our people" . then since i am on insulin the VA dosnt carry i have to pay for ($60 per quarter) and since i have not gone thru thier guini pig trials i cannot get the insulin they do carry. the insulin i am on i have used for 17 years prescribed by a civilian doctor. i know it works but now they wont evern give me the latest greatest thing the VA has . i truly believe the biggest problem is year end bonuses. the more they spend on Vets the less the bonus is. also had a pet scan several weeks back and still have heard nothing. so guess this 79 yo body is in great shape. all i need is the VA to tell me they dont really want to take care of me and i will use my medicare and trycare for life. but please be honest with our vets. i feel sorry for the new kids comeing home from war depending on VA for help. thank you for your time . i really do wish some one with authority would read this and reply.
have a good day

Response by LtCol Ray Collins made Oct 18 at 2021 3:51 PM

LtCol Ray Collins — Mon, 18 Oct 2021 15:51:54 -0400

I am an 82 YO veteran...20+ years service, Vietnam era. In 2017 I submitted a new claim to update my eligible benefits / disability percentage against my present health status which has worsen considerably with side effects from service-connected injuries. Here it is almost 5 years latter and VA is since dickering around stuck on 90% when my doctor and lawyers tell me I should be 100%. Please help me get this resolved before I die. They keep sending me to your "Contractor doctors" who have highly questionable credentials as medical professionals.

Response by Capt Mike Razor made Oct 18 at 2021 3:52 PM

Capt Mike Razor — Mon, 18 Oct 2021 15:52:00 -0400

Why would the VA discontinue a medication that I have been on for years with great success and switch to one that has caused side effects which in turn caused me to have to take an additional medication to address those side effects?

Response by SSG Charles Huger made Oct 18 at 2021 3:52 PM

SSG Charles Huger — Mon, 18 Oct 2021 15:52:05 -0400

Mr. Secretary - I am a disabled veteran. Has president Biden administration considered the pay gap for disable veterans, compare to cost of living today.

Response by SPC Chuck Haskin made Oct 18 at 2021 3:52 PM

SPC Chuck Haskin — Mon, 18 Oct 2021 15:52:26 -0400

Mr. Secretary-When are you going to make hypertension and MGUS to the list of the presumptive due to Agent Orange. I have ischemic heart disease caused by the hypertension, yet the VA allows ischemic heart disease on the presumptive list but not hypertension. The National Academies of Science, Engineering and Medicine (NASEM) update, “Veterans and Agent Orange,” published in 2016 concluded that hypertension should be included. It has been 50 years waiting for the government to step up and take care of the veterans exposed to agent Orange.

Response by SP5 Gordon Tilley made Oct 18 at 2021 3:52 PM

SP5 Gordon Tilley — Mon, 18 Oct 2021 15:52:35 -0400

Sir, the "New Presumptive Respiratory Conditions Related to Particulate Matter" you passed is great for those who served. The problem I'm seeing, are that disabilities such as Asthma are not being rated fairly when having other very different respiratory disabilities (like Sleep apnea) due to pyramiding (38 C.F.R. § 3.321). Is their any change taking place so that Veterans get the ratings they deserve?

Response by SGT Gary Kellenberger made Oct 18 at 2021 3:52 PM

SGT Gary Kellenberger — Mon, 18 Oct 2021 15:52:57 -0400

Would you support automatic enrollment in VA health care for all veterans upon discharge from service?

Response by PFC Leonard Baldassano made Oct 18 at 2021 3:53 PM

PFC Leonard Baldassano — Mon, 18 Oct 2021 15:53:30 -0400

Hello sir I think it’s about time they remove the Obama clause that makes it mandatory for Veterans to pay a deductible to see doctors now. That is not what Lincoln had in mind when we fought or served for our country. By us paying a deductible it’s no different than having to buy insurance through your job. Once again the veterans were pushed aside .

Response by SP5 Thomas Krueger made Oct 18 at 2021 3:53 PM

SP5 Thomas Krueger — Mon, 18 Oct 2021 15:53:59 -0400

What is happening with the money owed to veterans that have received emergency room care and have not been reimbursed? I sent in paperwork ages ago upon request and have heard nothing.

Response by CPL Peter Trejo made Oct 18 at 2021 3:54 PM

CPL Peter Trejo — Mon, 18 Oct 2021 15:54:52 -0400

i i reciecived my blood results where my kidneys are starting to fail ,i need a drug called farxiga but the doctor said they cant get it , why is that?

Response by LTC Private RallyPoint Member made Oct 18 at 2021 3:55 PM

LTC Private RallyPoint Member — Mon, 18 Oct 2021 15:55:28 -0400

Mr. Secretary - 2 important questions:
1: Can the VA and DOD combine the injury disability rating system into a shared system? I am rated 100% service-connected with VA, but have no rating with US Army that I know of. I am in the situation because I transferred directly from active duty to Reserves and my injuries have gotten worse over the years which changed my ratings from 20% to 90% then total. I am still fit and serve at a high level of fitness. As I begin to retire from the Army, I will have to fight for injury ratings with the Army to match what is already on record.
2: I am also a Federal employee and not allow to have Tricare- Reserve because I have to pay for FEB insurance which is 10 times fewer benefits at a much higher cost. Why are veterans like myself forced to pay higher rates for a policy I don't need when Tricare and ChampVA is a far better option.
Thank you.

Response by PO3 William Sesulka made Oct 18 at 2021 3:55 PM

PO3 William Sesulka — Mon, 18 Oct 2021 15:55:54 -0400

Mr. Secretary, respectfully, why are so many really Excellent doctor's leaving the V.A. in the facility where I receive my medical care?
I have been seeing so many of these doctors for several years and have never received the level of care in private practices that I have had the Privilege of at the V.A. in North Las Vegas!
I have a number of life threatening issues and each and Every Single one of them have been so helpful and thorough in their care for me that I am truly humbled by it and needless to say So Very Grateful!
I know this is a quite long way around getting my question out but please bear with me.
I simply get emotional when discussing this topic. Needless to say I also get more than a bit angry about it as well.
I see no need for the dedicated physicians to have to leave the V. A. to go into either private practice or to some other area of medicine because of treatment by our government that is unfair , for whatever reason.
Please help do Something, Anything really to help retain these fine dedicated physicians to stay with the V.A.
I am certain that this facility is not the only one in the country to be experiencing this problem. I am also aware that many of the problems arose during the past " administration" as it is abundantly clear. They all seemed quite content during the previous eight years. Yes, I have been going there that long for my health care and I Thank God and Country for this country keeping it's promise to me of making this care available to me. Without it I would have died years ago for lack of ability to possibly pay for all the things that the V.A. has provided to me.
Please Mr Secretary look into solving this problem of loss of these fine doctors and recruiting more of the same!
Thank You, William Sesulka

Response by CPL Peter Trejo made Oct 18 at 2021 3:56 PM

CPL Peter Trejo — Mon, 18 Oct 2021 15:56:15 -0400

im at the va in fresno ca ,6197 my last four

Response by CSM Private RallyPoint Member made Oct 18 at 2021 3:56 PM

CSM Private RallyPoint Member — Mon, 18 Oct 2021 15:56:16 -0400

Why do only some Vererans Receive compensation from an Ambulance Claim while others do not.
If you’re a Veteran you are a veteran. When you have to go to the hospital in an Ambulance why is 30% and above who are service Connected Ambulance claims get paid, while those below 30% have to pay sometime $2500 out of pocket? They are the same veterans, whom are to be treated the same way, are they not?

Response by SPC Ricky Phillips made Oct 18 at 2021 3:56 PM

SPC Ricky Phillips — Mon, 18 Oct 2021 15:56:16 -0400

A Veterans Law Judge has had my disability claim/Appeal since Jan11,2019. I went to the appointment requested of me and A report was provided to the Judge. Why has a decision not been made in over 1000 since the Judge received my case?

Response by Pvt Wesley Moody made Oct 18 at 2021 3:56 PM

Pvt Wesley Moody — Mon, 18 Oct 2021 15:56:19 -0400

why are we only getting the basics of care win so mini things have been cut and premised to us and now the care we get is worse now the a person who is on welfare gets better care thin we do . now ask look at what we were supposed to receive and premised in the o lets say 1975 on until Regan toke so much ae way from us .

Response by MSgt Marion Helmick made Oct 18 at 2021 3:56 PM

MSgt Marion Helmick — Mon, 18 Oct 2021 15:56:26 -0400

The VA comes up with Numerous new programs yearly. At times I wonder how can these programs be managed properly based on staffing. I think veterans would be better served if critical issues /programs were the main focus. At times I feel the reason is to appease and make it appears the VA is sensitive to all the problems.
Do you feel that the VA would be better off focusing on important issues and not trying to keep coming up with issues or programs that they can’t work on because of being overwhelmed ?

Response by SPC Paul Watson made Oct 18 at 2021 3:56 PM

SPC Paul Watson — Mon, 18 Oct 2021 15:56:38 -0400

Why doesn't the VA just close down the Hampton VA and transfer our care to Richmond Va along with Community Care? Of all the VA's I've had care this one is horrible and they know it. I've had 3 tries to get lab work and all a fail. Most of my care is sent out to Community Care anyway, things that the Richmond VA did in-house. It at the very least frustrates us Vets and our families and at worse will be our death. I went untreated for a heart complaint for 1 yr and 3 months. Of the care providers at Hampton they are rarely MD but only PAs. When i got my care in DC, San Diego and Richmond I never saw a PA but board certified MDs. It took 5 months to get a new primary care PA. After 2 ½ yrs of going to the Hampton VA I saw a MD only once and that was for a procedure. Close it down and send us to Doctors and keep us healthy.

Response by SSG William Kinder made Oct 18 at 2021 3:56 PM

SSG William Kinder — Mon, 18 Oct 2021 15:56:48 -0400

My appeal was filed over 8 years ago. It was remanded, I still haven't recieved a decision yet. Also the VA ruled against me for an over payment on my benificeary under the chapter 30 program. They collected 9,000 dollars from me, even though the exact same thing happened to other veterans and the Federal Appeals Court ruled against the VA about this practice.

Response by SGT Amy Pasqualini made Oct 18 at 2021 3:58 PM

SGT Amy Pasqualini — Mon, 18 Oct 2021 15:58:05 -0400

Mr. Secretary, I would like to know what VA plans (if any) concerning those Veterans on 100% P&T Disability, when they reach Social Security Retirement ages of 65, or 67? Are they going to be switched over to Social Security Benefits, or will they continue to receive full compensation and VA Benefits for their remaining lifetime? I am one of those Veterans and I am very concerned about this issue. I have not worked in over 10+ years, therefore not paying into Social Security. If forced to depend on Social Security as my only income, I would receive less than 1/3 of my current compensation. Thank you for any answers you could provide relating to this issue.

Response by LCpl Sean Munns made Oct 18 at 2021 3:58 PM

LCpl Sean Munns — Mon, 18 Oct 2021 15:58:54 -0400

Hi, I’d like to know that the VA is making sure that veterans on disability (100% myself) will be taken care during this period of out of control inflation, I see many social programs being proposed and implemented by the current administration but none of the 3.5 trillion seems to be for vets? Because of my rating I am disqualified from receiving any other help from government agencies even though our need can be just as great as others. I’d like to get out and work but I can’t and sometimes we need a little extra help too. Will you be fighting to get us more or expanded benefits? It may be selfish but I don’t think people should be paid to not work, including section 8, daycare, foodstamps cash aid, unemployment than a service connected vet at 100% receives.

Response by PO1 Alex Padilla made Oct 18 at 2021 3:59 PM

PO1 Alex Padilla — Mon, 18 Oct 2021 15:59:43 -0400

Honorable Secretary McDonough, my name is Alex Padilla and I am on 100% disability with the VA. I have all my full Post 9/11 educational benefits that I would like my only son to use for his education. However, under current law, I cannot not transfer my educational benefits because I did not transfer them to my son prior to separating from service. I as a retired veteran of active service I am in disbelieve that I am not allowed to transfer my education benefits, and I will never personally be able to use them. Moreover, it is inconceivable to me that I will one day lose these educational benefits afforded to me for my service to the country I love, due to not having foresight enough to transfer them to my only child.

With Respect to Your
Service Honorable Secretary,

Alex Padilla

Response by SP5 Ralph Cizenski Cizenski made Oct 18 at 2021 4:00 PM

SP5 Ralph Cizenski Cizenski — Mon, 18 Oct 2021 16:00:02 -0400

I really could use dental help .I am not eating good

Response by A1C James Cain made Oct 18 at 2021 4:00 PM

A1C James Cain — Mon, 18 Oct 2021 16:00:05 -0400

Why is the VA still using the new computer system at Mann-Graff VA. It is clearly inferior to the old system CPRS. After all this time it continues to be a problem. Someone has made billions off the ineffective system.

Response by SSG Ken Steinhoff made Oct 18 at 2021 4:00 PM

SSG Ken Steinhoff — Mon, 18 Oct 2021 16:00:19 -0400

Will the VA be taking into consideration the high inflation rate this year to give us a bigger cost of living adjustment? Rent alone jump up from $900 to $1,300 That was al most up by 50%. So please tell me getting a bigger adjustment this year.

Just heard on the News that President Biden want to give $450,000 to each parents that had their kid separated from them at the border.

So I guess we will get Screwed again

You do know if I take a 4 year old and have them walk from NY to LA they will take my kids from me, for I am an unfit parent.

But Lets give them that are Invading our country $450,000 for the fun of it

Response by SrA Jerry Mitchell made Oct 18 at 2021 4:00 PM

SrA Jerry Mitchell — Mon, 18 Oct 2021 16:00:32 -0400

WHY! taking so long for viet nam veterans to receive agent orange claims an disability claims not llways related to war injuries, but latter in year's! iraq veterans getting processed an paid with in weeks of return from war! Not vietnam veterans

Response by PO2 James Liken made Oct 18 at 2021 4:00 PM

PO2 James Liken — Mon, 18 Oct 2021 16:00:49 -0400

Hello, I understand that Veterans Choice may be going away. I live in a small town with access to a VA annex facility. That facility can only provide basic services. For anything significant, the veterans in our community must travel 700 miles round trip to access a VA hospital where services can be provided. Veterans Choice that President Trump facilitated is a fantastic program here. Will there be changes made to that program under this administration. Thanks

Response by PO3 Shane Stout made Oct 18 at 2021 4:01 PM

PO3 Shane Stout — Mon, 18 Oct 2021 16:01:58 -0400

What i'd like to know, is what he intends to do to correct the culture of denial that is so established in the VA system. I've got a bum right knee, that is the direct result of my left knee having issues. My left knee is service connected because i complained about it before the Army discharged me. The VA, however, refuses to acknowledge that the effect that my left knee has on my gait and posture, could possibly have any effect on my right knee, even though anyone with common sense could tell you that it WILL have an effect and should be connected. They deny deny deny like its their own personal funds that they're protecting when the VA SHOULD be fighting for us to get those service connections. They SHOULD be helping us vs fighting us. What's this grand new secretary gonna do about it? I should have been at 100% years ago but instead i have to fight the va harder than I ever fought an enemy of my country. Why do we have to fight sir?

Response by PO3 Brian Levy made Oct 18 at 2021 4:02 PM

PO3 Brian Levy — Mon, 18 Oct 2021 16:02:07 -0400

I went to my local VA clinic (New City NY)to get my flu shot. I was told that they didn’t have the dosage for over 65 years old I was told the same thing for 3 weeks in a row. I finally got my shot at CVS at no cost to me. If CVS can get the vaccine why can’t the VA. I’m assuming your purchasing department messed up. Or is the VA back to the old days of not caring?

Response by SGT Gary Williams made Oct 18 at 2021 4:02 PM

SGT Gary Williams — Mon, 18 Oct 2021 16:02:08 -0400

The Disability Compensation Pay Schedule has remained at the same pay for decades. When will there be a raise in the amounts of all the ratings?

Response by PFC John FireThunder made Oct 18 at 2021 4:02 PM

PFC John FireThunder — Mon, 18 Oct 2021 16:02:43 -0400

My question is regarding expired college benefits. I served from 1987-1991 and chose the college fund. I was only able to use a small portion of the fund before it expired. My question is would it be possible to use the rest of those funds? Also, is there any talk with the Dept of Education about loan forgiveness for veterans? Thank you so much!

Response by Sgt Greg Beers made Oct 18 at 2021 4:02 PM

Sgt Greg Beers — Mon, 18 Oct 2021 16:02:52 -0400

Ok I whant know why the va hospital Iam registered with is telling me Iam not allowed,don’t quilfy according to the mission act.so my question is how do we as veterans get to use community care that is being denied because va hospitals are saying we need to be eligible witch from my looking at the mission is clearly no eligible requirement

Response by SP5 Joe Gibeault made Oct 18 at 2021 4:04 PM

SP5 Joe Gibeault — Mon, 18 Oct 2021 16:04:17 -0400

I am now an EMT, why does VA not give NARCAN out UNLESS you are prescribed opiates. I see MANY veterans who need it in both homeless and non homeless environments. With opiate overdose a major problem with veterans why is it not available for emergency use and supplied like face masks by the VA?

Response by SPC Cecil Blankenship made Oct 18 at 2021 4:05 PM

SPC Cecil Blankenship — Mon, 18 Oct 2021 16:05:45 -0400

I filed for disability compensation for illnesses in the Agent orange presumtive list on November 28th of 2020 and have not heard anything since April 8th, 2021. Why has it taken so long to hear anything?

Response by 1LT Elli Work made Oct 18 at 2021 4:07 PM

1LT Elli Work — Mon, 18 Oct 2021 16:07:24 -0400

Secretary McDonough,
Thank you for this great opportunity.
Here is my question:
Why isn't there more information circulating about the Army Rank Corrections Board? After coming out in 1993, then being denied promotion to Captain, I was "allowed" to retire from the OR ARNG in 1999.
Literally 20 years later, I learned about the board and am applying to correct this wrong.
Can you help make more information like this available to the LGBTQ+ veteran community?
Thank you,
iLT Elli Work (R)

Response by PO2 Allen Grisham made Oct 18 at 2021 4:07 PM

PO2 Allen Grisham — Mon, 18 Oct 2021 16:07:52 -0400

Are you aware of the horrible situation in most va hospital bathrooms? I have been in va hospitals from California, arizona, texas, Tennessee, and Virginia. They are horrible. Also the people who work at the v a are so unkind, unfriendly, mean spirited and un helpful. It’s really discouraging and makes me sad and angry. Never any accountability. Easy work, lots of time off and little actual work is done. Also try to call the v a and see if anyone answers the phone. You can leave all the messages you want but don’t expect anyone to call you back. Have a great day

Response by Sgt Gr Fisk made Oct 18 at 2021 4:08 PM

Sgt Gr Fisk — Mon, 18 Oct 2021 16:08:20 -0400

Mr. Secretary, first off, Thank You for everything you do. It takes strong Leadership such as yours to Represent the millions of us Veterans. On March 25, 2021, the VA Issued an email Statement/Notification titled "Copayment Debt: Cancelled-Refunded". In it it was stated that ALL copays for Medical Services (including Prescription Copays) incurred between April 6, 2021 and Sept. 30, 2021 were "Cancelled and we should not pay them". On Oct. 1, 2021 I received another email notification from the VA titled "What you need to know about VA Debts and Debt Relief Notification". This second notice claims the VA had only "Deferred those payments, and that 9 this is a direct copy and paste from this second notice) "On Oct. 1, 2021, the DMC began sending debt notification letters, which include timelines for next steps. The letters will be sent in phases over a period of several months, so you may not receive your debt notification in October. If you requested DMC to temporarily stop your payment plan due to the COVID-19 pandemic, it will not automatically resume on Oct. 1, 2021.". Now I'm sorry but, my income is $2,000 per Month Gross. That's from Social Security and VA Disability Combined. There is no way I can afford to pay for back copays from 1 1/2 years. I can barely pay for monthly copays that started up on Oct. 1, 2021 but I make them. Please don't make me have to send a Hardship Claim Begging for money that the VA told us Would Not happen. Thank you so much for the time and attention to this issue, which affects many Veterans. Grant R. Fisk USAF Veteran 1975-1981

Response by CPL Carroll Clark made Oct 18 at 2021 4:08 PM

CPL Carroll Clark — Mon, 18 Oct 2021 16:08:32 -0400

Social Security and VA.
Why are diagnoses from 3 prong vigilance at VBA not good enough for Social Security? It should be a "no brainer" that a disability is a disability. Why are VA doctors not believed? Are they not as good as the Urgent Care quacks that deny benefits for SS? What would AMA say about this question? VA doctors give their lives to the service. SS doctors get a contract to deny the facts put before them.

Response by SGT Robert Agee made Oct 18 at 2021 4:08 PM

SGT Robert Agee — Mon, 18 Oct 2021 16:08:34 -0400

I thought the VA was doing something about speeding up the decision process regarding claims?

Response by SSG Albert Fariello made Oct 18 at 2021 4:09 PM

SSG Albert Fariello — Mon, 18 Oct 2021 16:09:21 -0400

Is it true that the current administration is going to eliminate ther Community Care Program?

Response by SSG Matthew Wilson made Oct 18 at 2021 4:09 PM

SSG Matthew Wilson — Mon, 18 Oct 2021 16:09:31 -0400

Mr. Secretary,
My specific question is in regards to the Caregiver Support Program and why during the appeals process the evaluation board does not provide the worksheets for denying a Veteran. It is hard to file a accurate appeal and win an appeal when we are not given any specific reason for Denile. Even our Caregiver Support Team is not given a reason. VBA provides specific reasons to us for ratings, yet for this program they do not. I’ve considered a FOIA request but hope maybe my Syracuse VA is just mistaken and there is place I can access specific information in order to properly file an appeal. Patient Advocates only forward appeals, they provide zero advocacy. My follow on is why would a person fully enrolled in the same program that moves from Florida to NY have to reapply to the program. Why is the standard not universal for all the VA’s nationally, is is all the same Federal Program.

Thank You

Response by PO2 Chris Strigos made Oct 18 at 2021 4:11 PM

PO2 Chris Strigos — Mon, 18 Oct 2021 16:11:15 -0400

When VA dental care will open to more veterans? Thank you.

Response by CAPT Barbara Henk made Oct 18 at 2021 4:11 PM

CAPT Barbara Henk — Mon, 18 Oct 2021 16:11:35 -0400

Why is it so hard to change VAs when you move? You have to disengage one location before getting on list for another. You aren't told if new area has a wait list. You are without medical care. I'm on several medications. I would be without for God knows how long. Took two years to get in first time. So now I drive 9 hours for care & cost me at least $1000 . And anything acute I have nothing. I'm checking into other options. I put in 30 years. It's not right. And I know people worse off than me.

Response by SPC Richard Veloso made Oct 18 at 2021 4:11 PM

SPC Richard Veloso — Mon, 18 Oct 2021 16:11:41 -0400

When will the VA reach out to veterans for the Madera booster vaccination???????

Response by PVT Joseph Conforto made Oct 18 at 2021 4:11 PM

PVT Joseph Conforto — Mon, 18 Oct 2021 16:11:47 -0400

My soon to be ex-wife had me 302 thinking she would get full access to my VA pay and be able to have me committed due to having PTSD. The doctor at the civilian hospital was going to have me go home as he seen no signs. He called my wife and she told him I had to be angry in order to see it. I refused to sign the 302 Being asThere was nothing going on to warrant it. He sent me for evaluation and during the hearing at the end of the week it became apparent that my wife made up the story to have me 302d So they threw it out as unlawful testimony by witness. However the 302 still stands on my record from the initial doctor. My question is will the VA help with legal to get this removed. Also since this incident occurred six years ago I have completed An undergraduate degree in substance-abuse and addictions and a masters degree in clinical mental health counseling with hopes to help other veterans. I have zero run-ins with the law and don’t understand how someone can make a false accusation, haven’t proven to be false, yet it still stands on my record.

Response by PO2 Quent Floyd made Oct 18 at 2021 4:13 PM

PO2 Quent Floyd — Mon, 18 Oct 2021 16:13:35 -0400

Dear Honorable Secretary Denis McDonough,
The time Vets have to wait to have a claim for disability to be decided on is 100+ days and growing. This is not acceptable to anyone's standards. Vets deserve better than this. It doesn't even take that long to get your tax refund back. Please tell me what you and President Biden's administration plan to do to lower this drastically.

Response by SSgt Jerry Godbey made Oct 18 at 2021 4:13 PM

SSgt Jerry Godbey — Mon, 18 Oct 2021 16:13:49 -0400

Why does it take 6 months to a year for Supervisory review of a ruling or 1 to 3 years for an appeal? The time lengths are unacceptable. I am also concerned that new hires will have little to no training and will make mistakes that will cost more time. I am 71 and have only a few years left. I may die before my case is adjudicated.

Response by SP5 Lewis Miller made Oct 18 at 2021 4:14 PM

SP5 Lewis Miller — Mon, 18 Oct 2021 16:14:44 -0400

I have sent emails to his email address for resolution of issues I have had with the VA. They send back an email saying they are sending the complaint to the leadership and I can never hear anything else about them. I can’t even request a FOIA due to them not giving me any information back. How do you get treatments when you are 100% disabled and the VA offers no treatments for them? Then when you look into your records they are filled with false statements. The VAOIG will do nothing. How do you file a lawsuit for falsification of government records? Seem nobody will answer any of these questions!

Response by SN David Feld made Oct 18 at 2021 4:15 PM

SN David Feld — Mon, 18 Oct 2021 16:15:33 -0400

The VA currently is using Philips Cpap machines that are on recall. Why not reissue machines that are not posing health risks to veterans.

Response by Sgt Mark Richard Prew made Oct 18 at 2021 4:15 PM

Sgt Mark Richard Prew — Mon, 18 Oct 2021 16:15:45 -0400

Why can't I buy a houseboat or a manufactured home ? That's the only options in my Price range. I'm pre-qualified through Veterans United for $120‐140,000. My monthly SSDI & VAD add up to $1600/mnth. Rent has gone up to over $1k/mnth for a 1 br Efficiency in every part of the Country I've looked.
I can afford a 40', 20 year-old boat and upkeep better than RENT !! WTF ???

Response by SPC Carlton Phelps made Oct 18 at 2021 4:15 PM

SPC Carlton Phelps — Mon, 18 Oct 2021 16:15:47 -0400

Carlton Phelps, Disabled Vet
Sir, I realize that VA needs to same money and watch for any way to save. My question is: Why did VA change to the company that now handles travel reimbursement? This company charges the vet $3.00 each way and reduces their payment. It seems that the vet is now footing the bill for this company and not VA.

Response by SFC Floyd Campfield made Oct 18 at 2021 4:16 PM

SFC Floyd Campfield — Mon, 18 Oct 2021 16:16:50 -0400

Mr. Secretary, thank you for taking questions!
My question: I retired in 2005 with 23yrs of service. I had been using the VA as my primary care provider. When I turned 65yrs old in 2019 my Tri-Care turned to Tri-Care for Life and was now my secondary insurance after Medicare. Since one Federal Agency cannot pay another agency, I would have had to switch my status at the VA to "Prior Service" instead of having "Medical Insurance". If I didn't want to, I would have to find a new doctor outside of the VA.
I find this very disheartening. I would of had to find a new doctor, have all my medical records transferred, et. al., when the VA was taking great care of me; Or, have to pay a fee for each clinic I saw if I stayed at the VA.
What can be done to help Veterans with this issue. Getting older, going to be on a fixed income. Can Congress approve Medicare to pay the VA?

Response by LTC Private RallyPoint Member made Oct 18 at 2021 4:17 PM

LTC Private RallyPoint Member — Mon, 18 Oct 2021 16:17:15 -0400

My father passed away this year. I thought that he was in the VA system, but he was not fully. I found out that he had stopped seeking service after he was told that he earned too much money on the means test. He had many injuries that would have most likely rated him 100% service-connected (back in the 1960s and '70s) and my mother, now a widow would have been eligible for DIC and other valuable VA benefits. Education for veterans is so important.
Question: VA needs to streamline what a veteran is, stop using pre 9/11, post 9-11, Agent Orange, WWII, etc. If you are a veteran and injured that should be it Period. Can VA streamline this system, we are less than 1% of the US population you said at the MOAA meeting in Arlington on October 15, 2021.

Response by Cpl Rafael Lara made Oct 18 at 2021 4:17 PM

Cpl Rafael Lara — Mon, 18 Oct 2021 16:17:49 -0400

Where's the accountability?!?! And why is the Marine Corps trying to make an example of a leader who is demanding accountability from this cluster called OEF/OIF?!

Response by A1C Robert O Neill made Oct 18 at 2021 4:20 PM

A1C Robert O Neill — Mon, 18 Oct 2021 16:20:23 -0400

A/1C RO

Response by SGT Wes Haun made Oct 18 at 2021 4:20 PM

SGT Wes Haun — Mon, 18 Oct 2021 16:20:37 -0400

Please explain why claims for hypothyroidism by Vietnam Veterans are still being denied? This seems contrary to the Congress passing it early in 2021.

Response by SSgt Darryl Jerome Williams made Oct 18 at 2021 4:20 PM

SSgt Darryl Jerome Williams — Mon, 18 Oct 2021 16:20:52 -0400

On addition to overly-prolonged waiting periods for Bioard of Apoeals, why aren't "Higher Review" assessments done by a non-affiliated entity?

Response by Tammy Johnson made Oct 18 at 2021 4:21 PM

Tammy Johnson — Mon, 18 Oct 2021 16:21:50 -0400

Get and keep better vetted and qualified mental health care providers-doctors that prescribe psyc meds should be better qualified. Check Palo Alto psyc pharmaceutical specialist. My husband is bipolar and was prescribed Prozac after begging to be put back on ambilify that worked for him I’m the past and denied until to late. The result was devastating to our entire family-lost our home-separated-financially ruined. My husband is over 2,000 miles away when he crashed-me, and children, grandchildren devastated. Don’t know if we will ever get our lives back that we had before. We can’t.

Response by SSgt Dennis Britt made Oct 18 at 2021 4:24 PM

SSgt Dennis Britt — Mon, 18 Oct 2021 16:24:10 -0400

What are the obstacles to allowing Dental Services to Veterans rated 50%+ ? In Light of the current legislative pressure to add Dental to Medicare Benefits, VA Eligibility for Dental seems to be equally valid and a simple Policy Change Directive.

Response by SCPO John Barone made Oct 18 at 2021 4:25 PM

SCPO John Barone — Mon, 18 Oct 2021 16:25:15 -0400

Dear Mr. Secretary,
The community care program was designed to expedite Veterans' health care. This is simply not working in Texas. If you cannot get an appointment with the VA within 30 days, you are turned over to community care. Then your wait will take months. I personally waited for a year. Why is this program not being properly monitored?

Response by A1C Jay Upton made Oct 18 at 2021 4:25 PM

A1C Jay Upton — Mon, 18 Oct 2021 16:25:29 -0400

what happened to the refund of medical payments supposed to be sent by july 2021 and never recieved due $368.00 sure could use it 87 year old vet jay upton [login to see]

Response by LCpl Otis Black Jr. made Oct 18 at 2021 4:27 PM

LCpl Otis Black Jr. — Mon, 18 Oct 2021 16:27:17 -0400

Mr. Secretary: is it possible for a veteran who has lost his housing benefit, receive forgiveness for losing that home and once again use the benefit? Could consideration be made do to each individual’s life circumstances?

Response by SSG Kenneth Huhn Jr made Oct 18 at 2021 4:27 PM

SSG Kenneth Huhn Jr — Mon, 18 Oct 2021 16:27:25 -0400

I was in the Navy from 1963-67 and spent all but 6 months on the USS La Salle (LPD 3). When I was assigned to the ship she was under construction at the Brooklyn Navy Yard. While we were waiting for the ship to be completed we had to go with the welders and burners as a fire watch. We were around them when they had to remove and replace asbestos. The VA admits I have asbestos in my lungs from being on the ship. I have been diagnosed with COPD but the VA says I'm not sick enough to get a disability for it plus they make me pay the the meds I use for the COPD. Why do I have to get sicker to get a pension from my service?

Response by Sgt Steven Sinai made Oct 18 at 2021 4:28 PM

Sgt Steven Sinai — Mon, 18 Oct 2021 16:28:28 -0400

Why are the glasses frames I get from the VA's optical vendor made in China?

Response by SFC Roy Evans made Oct 18 at 2021 4:28 PM

SFC Roy Evans — Mon, 18 Oct 2021 16:28:51 -0400

Why can't I call my family care doctor? I've used the toll-free call service number, but my calls are never returned from the Idabel, OK out patient clinic. I've even driven the 30+ miles to the clinic to ask for a commercial number, but I was told one didn't exist. I find this hard to believe.
I've been prescribed medications in the recent year that had severe side effects, and discontinued taking the medication, with no way to inform my doctor.

R.N.Evans
SFC/E-7
USA SF (RET)

Response by PO3 Micahel Brennan made Oct 18 at 2021 4:28 PM

PO3 Micahel Brennan — Mon, 18 Oct 2021 16:28:59 -0400

What makes you think you’re qualified, as a non-veteran and political hack, to lead the VA and what’s REALLY the plan for Community Care?

Response by GySgt Elvado Davis made Oct 18 at 2021 4:30 PM

GySgt Elvado Davis — Mon, 18 Oct 2021 16:30:27 -0400

Thank you Secretary McDonough for taking the time to address the issues of our veterans.
1. I’m a retired Marine living in the Seattle area. Whenever I call our local Community Care network the hold times usually exceeds 30 minutes. On several occasions after being on a long hold, usually exceeding 30 minutes, the call will automatically kick me out of the queue. I’d have to call back & start the process all over again. What can be done to improve the hold times when calling Community Care?

2. The transition to the online travel claim system has not been a smooth transition. It was supposed to take 2-3 days to receive your travel claim reimbursement. However, today is 10 18 21 & I’ve yet to receive my reimbursement for a travel claim that I submitted on 5 27 21. I checked with my local travel claim office last week & I was told that there’s a back log off 4-5 months on travel claim reimbursements. That’s unacceptable. Why is there such a back log in the VA’s travel claim system? What’s being done to implement a much more efficient system?

Thank you for your time, consideration, and willingness to address the issues that afflict our veterans . Your time is greatly appreciated.

Elvado Davis
GySgt USMC Ret.

Response by Sgt Steven Sinai made Oct 18 at 2021 4:31 PM

Sgt Steven Sinai — Mon, 18 Oct 2021 16:31:06 -0400

Hello. I noticed that the glasses frames I got from the VA's optical vendor were made in China. Any way you can get the frames from an American supplier?

Response by PFC Jerry Heying made Oct 18 at 2021 4:31 PM

PFC Jerry Heying — Mon, 18 Oct 2021 16:31:46 -0400

Why dosen't the VA recognize an upgraded discharge? If a person had his discharge upgraded form dd215 to and general under honorable condition but the VA says they won't except it. What gives?

Response by MSgt Keith Buckheit made Oct 18 at 2021 4:31 PM

MSgt Keith Buckheit — Mon, 18 Oct 2021 16:31:48 -0400

MSgt (Retired) Keith Buckheit
Hello Mr. Secretary,
I and many other Veterans have difficulty staying (or feeling), settled in one location for too long. When I moved regions, I learned that the new provider could not see my medical/mental health record. I essentially had to restart my history with the new provider. The VA is a Federal Government institution so why aren't our medical/mental health records visible to certified VA providers across the country/between regions without having to request them from another region, and is the VA working towards a goal to make this happen for our Veterans and Veteran providers?

Response by Pvt Jerry Wilson made Oct 18 at 2021 4:31 PM

Pvt Jerry Wilson — Mon, 18 Oct 2021 16:31:57 -0400

Hi Mr. Secretary, could you please add dental to our benefits. It would mean so much.

Response by SP5 Tifus Gates made Oct 18 at 2021 4:33 PM

SP5 Tifus Gates — Mon, 18 Oct 2021 16:33:10 -0400

Mr. Secretary,
I would like to know who is accountable for the contractors -Veterans Experience Services (VES) and Quality, Timeliness, Customer Service (QTC) and Logistics Health, INC (LHI) service to our active duty and Veteran soldiers? The knowledge of these examiners are horrible and the complaints these 3rd party examining companies receive, on the RCC call centers 800 line, are astronomical.

Response by CCMSgt Norm King made Oct 18 at 2021 4:33 PM

CCMSgt Norm King — Mon, 18 Oct 2021 16:33:30 -0400

The upcoming Dec 1 cola for my disabled vet check will drop by $44 per month. Why?

Response by SP5 Raymond Cormier made Oct 18 at 2021 4:34 PM

SP5 Raymond Cormier — Mon, 18 Oct 2021 16:34:05 -0400

Is it true that the VA is sending insulin to vets without the rush overnight delivery designation as has happened to me at the Boston VA?

Response by MSgt Larry Arenas made Oct 18 at 2021 4:35 PM

MSgt Larry Arenas — Mon, 18 Oct 2021 16:35:04 -0400

Will VA Medical Centers issue/prescribe CBD products to veterans in lieu of current narcotic pain relievers? If US believes not enough research has been done we can collect on all the aid given to Israel and use their verified research and jump-start our healthcare into the 21st century.

Response by CWO4 Brian Schwandt made Oct 18 at 2021 4:35 PM

CWO4 Brian Schwandt — Mon, 18 Oct 2021 16:35:12 -0400

If a person has sleep apnea and is on the CPAP machine, if they choose to get the inspire implant does that affect their disability for sleep apnea.

Response by SP5 David Reedy made Oct 18 at 2021 4:36 PM

SP5 David Reedy — Mon, 18 Oct 2021 16:36:25 -0400

Why do we have to go through a third party vendor (Tri-West in my case) to get community appointments, billing, etc? Why pay a third party for-profit for services the VA can provide?
If I can't get a VA appointment for a urologist I contact my VA because there aren't enough staff then my primary care doctor tells Tri-=West to get me an appointment, Tri West then contacts the Provider. The provider says OK Triwest, call the vet and see when he wants an appointment, then back to the provider, then to Triwest, then to me. Then back to the VA to confirm! Cut out the middle man!

Response by Sgt Wayland Burton made Oct 18 at 2021 4:38 PM

Sgt Wayland Burton — Mon, 18 Oct 2021 16:38:17 -0400

Why is it so difficult to get caregiver approval? It seems to have your wife that performs everything from driver, to nurse, to psychologist, to support aid can’t be qualified as a caregiver but a veteran can get a support animal approved. A wife is more support than an animal. I think it is a terrible line for evaluators to draw and just how much does a caregiver has to do to qualify? I know of others who have had their care giver qualified that perform less. I don’t think the uniformity of evaluation is the same across the board.

Response by Tammy Pile made Oct 18 at 2021 4:38 PM

Tammy Pile — Mon, 18 Oct 2021 16:38:49 -0400

Why not let the doctors at the VA prescribe medicinal marijuana to the VA patients it is better for them than all the pills that they have to take

Response by SGT Kellie Kole made Oct 18 at 2021 4:41 PM

SGT Kellie Kole — Mon, 18 Oct 2021 16:41:32 -0400

Why is the Process so difficult to getting benefits, that's truly deserved? We are not doctor's and lawyer's to navigate to very long and depressing process. Can this process be simplified like the federal income tax forms? The nightmare needs to end now. We are dying out here.
Thank you for your Support.
Sergeant Kole

Response by SSgt Thonas Daly made Oct 18 at 2021 4:42 PM

SSgt Thonas Daly — Mon, 18 Oct 2021 16:42:30 -0400

I need a Urology procedure approved by FDA bot available at VAMC. WHY IS MY OUTSIDE CIVILIAN MEDICAL CONSULT not been approved under VA’s CHOICE PROGRAM, which I’ve had done before ?

Response by PO2 Alfred Campbell made Oct 18 at 2021 4:42 PM

PO2 Alfred Campbell — Mon, 18 Oct 2021 16:42:44 -0400

I am frustrated trying to get a claim for disability under the Blue Water Navy Veterans Act. I served aboard the USS GALLANT MSO489 sailing in Vietnam coastal waters in summer 1971. Deck logs of all naval vessels that served there and are being digitized by National Archives. There is no completion date for this massive project, yet without the log, there is no proof of the ship's location without those logs. I have my DD214, but that is worthless even though it chronicles my service. Can you help?

Response by CPL Richard Spor made Oct 18 at 2021 4:42 PM

CPL Richard Spor — Mon, 18 Oct 2021 16:42:47 -0400

How can a VA hospital stop providing items that they have provided to a veteran for over 30 years because they say they have decided they no longer wish to keep providing it?
Specifically the Philadelphia VA hospital?

Response by PO3 Michael J Weyhrauch made Oct 18 at 2021 4:43 PM

PO3 Michael J Weyhrauch — Mon, 18 Oct 2021 16:43:52 -0400

Why hasnt the va included care for the up, & coming medical marijuana for veterans with qualifying conditions?

Response by Sgt Norma Alvarez (Sgt. Norma Semonski) made Oct 18 at 2021 4:43 PM

Sgt Norma Alvarez (Sgt. Norma Semonski) — Mon, 18 Oct 2021 16:43:59 -0400

Honorable Secretary Denis McDonough,
Thank you for conducting the question session with Veterans to gather information to better make their lives fuller and healthier. My question is this: "Would it be possible for Veterans to continue MOS Specific training to stay current/relevant in their civilian field?" I was in Public Affairs, USMC for 11+years and much has evolved in this field (social media replacing much of print/broadcast). Nothing is the same regarding technology used and processes have also evolved. Would you consider allowing Veterans to prove their MOS from DD214 to virtually participate in reasonable curricula (Nothing that would aggravate security) so that the excellent training we received while in service remains current and relevant making some of us older Veterans more attractive to todays employers. This could also be broadened to those fields most easily trainable and broadly needed in America. Simply becoming certified as "Current" in that MOS/Field would be such a gift to receive. Thank you in advance for your consideration on this service request question. N.J. Alvarez, USMC

Response by A1C Michael Casey made Oct 18 at 2021 4:44 PM

A1C Michael Casey — Mon, 18 Oct 2021 16:44:05 -0400

Why are standard lung X-Rays and MRI Brain scans not standard procedures upon both entering for Medical Services nor on successive appointments! After visiting my local VA Hospital and Clinics for years, I had to find out from a civilian Practitioner that I had both a Brain Tumor, and a stage 4 metastatic lung mass! Both of which have been eradicated through successful surgery, and since I was informed that I am among 2-3% of the population with a mutant gene which enabled me to bypass Chemo in favor of a Cancer killer med called Alectinib/Alcensa, which got rid of the mass! Only to find that a non small cell squamous carcinoma existed in my lung.
Immediate Chemo was administered, until the cancer got so small that now, even though it is incurable, infusions every 6 weeks of Keytruda will enhance my own immune system enough to keep the cancer at bay for another 0-20 years.
I can only wish that the discoveries had been detected much sooner, with STANDARDIZED VA ENTRY X-RAYS AND MRI BRAIN SCANS!!

Response by Sgt Norma Alvarez (Sgt. Norma Semonski) made Oct 18 at 2021 4:44 PM

Sgt Norma Alvarez (Sgt. Norma Semonski) — Mon, 18 Oct 2021 16:44:54 -0400

Response by SSgt Thonas Daly made Oct 18 at 2021 4:45 PM

SSgt Thonas Daly — Mon, 18 Oct 2021 16:45:25 -0400

I have been back & from Ruth since July 17th with BROOKLYN VAMC Urology & no one gets back to me unless I call the Patient Advocate - for 3 months now !

Response by Sgt Karen Haynes made Oct 18 at 2021 4:47 PM

Sgt Karen Haynes — Mon, 18 Oct 2021 16:47:26 -0400

Why does it take so long to get an dental appointment and follow up appointments? It will take me 3 months to get a crown? I think we need more dentists or referral to outside dentists

Response by SP5 Delmy Pineda made Oct 18 at 2021 4:47 PM

SP5 Delmy Pineda — Mon, 18 Oct 2021 16:47:36 -0400

VRE students should be given priority for internships with VA hospitals. I am a senior at the clinical master social program at the Catholic University of American. I was denied the privilege to do my clinical year with the VA medical center in DC. I talk with the chief of social worker and the hospital director and both decline my request for consideration. Please contact me regarding this issue at [login to see] . I want to have a virtual meeting with Mr. McDonough. Thanks

Response by Pvt Dr. Fred L Nance Jr made Oct 18 at 2021 4:51 PM

Pvt Dr. Fred L Nance Jr — Mon, 18 Oct 2021 16:51:19 -0400

https://youtu.be/2fFEMe_dQl8
Secretary McDonough: Good afternoon. As you can see from my attached documentation I have been fighting this issue of changing my discharge due to systemic racism for over 53 years. Racism is alive in America
https://drive.google.com/file/d/1kW9iqbQnutahNf3cL1y_C5LGItLYhdxX/view?usp=drivesdk … https://www.post-gazette.com/frontpage/2021/10/14/Marine-officer-pleads-guilty-to-disrespecting-senior-officials-says-his-life-spiraled-down-after-posting-viral-videos/stories/ [login to see] 77

Marine Corps Racism

United State Marine Corps white drill instructor using racist language about the murder of Martin Luther King Jr. Here is a 2-page written report sent to the...

Response by CW2 Peter Greene made Oct 18 at 2021 4:52 PM

CW2 Peter Greene — Mon, 18 Oct 2021 16:52:56 -0400

Are you aware that funding for continuing research into Gulf War Illness (GWI) by the DoD CDMRP is in danger of having it's funding completely cut by Congress and what are you/will you say to Congress to urge the to continue to fund research into GWI. (Note: tot he best of my knowledge, it is in the Senate where the roadblock seems to be as they work on the reconciliation bill.)

Thank you.

Peter Greene
Gulf War Veteran
GWIRP Programmatic Panel Member

Response by LT Christopher Miller made Oct 18 at 2021 4:54 PM

LT Christopher Miller — Mon, 18 Oct 2021 16:54:05 -0400

Thank you for taking our questions, Mr. Secretary. What do you say to veterans who are too afraid to see their physicians and other medical professionals because they might say the wrong thing and have their benefits adjusted? (e.g. reduced)

Response by CA Ken Binkley made Oct 18 at 2021 4:54 PM

CA Ken Binkley — Mon, 18 Oct 2021 16:54:45 -0400

I became a service connected disabled combat veteran in 1969. How can the VA just ghost my entire Claim and take all away from me? Do you realize what that does to my "identity" as a Service Connected Disabled Veteran. Why? And how do I get it back with my ghosted benefits?

Response by SPC James Koslosky made Oct 18 at 2021 4:55 PM

SPC James Koslosky — Mon, 18 Oct 2021 16:55:24 -0400

Does the VA Medical Center in Philadelphia, Pa. use University of Pennsylvania physicians and nurses ?

Response by CPL Stephen DiLorenzo made Oct 18 at 2021 4:56 PM

CPL Stephen DiLorenzo — Mon, 18 Oct 2021 16:56:29 -0400

I’ve had surgery to remove both my thyroid and lymph nodes due to cancer. I was stationed on Vietnam in 1969 with the 128th Assault Helicopter Company in an area where agent orange was used. This was determined during my request for disability.
I was originally informed agent orange was not responsible for my cancer.
I haven’t heard back from the VA for several months wondering why?
Sincerely, Stephen DiLorenzo

Response by SGM Jeff Orvis made Oct 18 at 2021 4:59 PM

SGM Jeff Orvis — Mon, 18 Oct 2021 16:59:35 -0400

I own a home but I do not live in it. My Daughter in Law and Granddaughter live in it. Because of that reason, I cannot use VA to refinance. Is there a provision that will allow us, because there is probably more of us in this situation, in the future, to use this benefit?

Response by CPL Private RallyPoint Member made Oct 18 at 2021 5:04 PM

CPL Private RallyPoint Member — Mon, 18 Oct 2021 17:04:45 -0400

Why do you follow a PROVEN vaccine mandate that is killing people and pushing so-called vaccines that are NOT vaccines in the medical dictionary sense since they alter RNA????? After the 2022 election will you change the so-called definitions again to appease the right as they take over Congress????? How many lawsuits have been filed by veterans against the VA this year ALONE and of those suits how many have you lost or settled out of court so far??????

Response by PO3 Paul Scheel made Oct 18 at 2021 5:04 PM

PO3 Paul Scheel — Mon, 18 Oct 2021 17:04:47 -0400

Mr Secretary
Why is it the VA specialist you see change so often you see a neroiogilst or cardiologist etc
You put your trust in their hands
They treat you put you on meds tell you call in 2 weeks see how meds help
You call leave a voice mail no one calls you
Send a message get a call he is no longer seeing patients
How good would you think your care is
And you never know if the same Dr will be treating you

Response by PO1 John McKinney made Oct 18 at 2021 5:04 PM

PO1 John McKinney — Mon, 18 Oct 2021 17:04:54 -0400

Do you support a separate raise in retirement for retired Korean and Vietnam veterans who have left behind the curve of the current 1976-2021 retirees? The best E1 pay from the Korea-Vietnam era was $225.00. per month. Today an E1 earns ($1,733.00) that’s more than a Master Chief Petty Officer ($1,518.00) did in 1974. Compare current retiree pay to previous retiree pay without a substantial cost of living raises and you will see an embarrassing unpatriotic gap.

Respectfully,
John K. McKinney Ret USN

Response by CN Christopher Cahill made Oct 18 at 2021 5:06 PM

CN Christopher Cahill — Mon, 18 Oct 2021 17:06:03 -0400

I'd like to know. If I'm on Medicare. Why can't the VA be my 2nd dire to cover the 20% Medicare doesn't pick-up ? So I can go to a hospital near my home. Instead of going to the big city. Which is a hazel ?

Response by PO3 Richard Stoll made Oct 18 at 2021 5:06 PM

PO3 Richard Stoll — Mon, 18 Oct 2021 17:06:31 -0400

It often takes months before a VA community consult to be processed. My serious issues are mostly resolved or are being treated before a community consult can be processed and I am saddled with large medical bills that are very difficult for me to pay for.

Response by SGT Dan Baker made Oct 18 at 2021 5:06 PM

SGT Dan Baker — Mon, 18 Oct 2021 17:06:59 -0400

I would like to know why, when the VA response was “it is more likely than not that your Tinnitus and hearing loss is service connected”, that I have been denied twice? A Senator’s staffer suggested that it is because I have lived conservatively and can afford hearing aids.

Response by Sgt Sheila Hearvey made Oct 18 at 2021 5:07 PM

Sgt Sheila Hearvey — Mon, 18 Oct 2021 17:07:11 -0400

I have had favorable interaction with my local VA. However, my husband, a retired veteran has been waiting for a return call to schedule a Dr. appt. for months. What is the best way for him to schedule a medical appt.?

Response by PFC Melvin Gindt made Oct 18 at 2021 5:08 PM

PFC Melvin Gindt — Mon, 18 Oct 2021 17:08:57 -0400

after serving my country honorably in Viet Nam as a Marine I have literally lost all my VA health care benefits because I wouldn't wear a mask. Even, after being fully vaccinated. I did not get my vaccine from the VA either because I wouldn't wear a mask. I had to go to Safeway, a local grocery store to get my shots. I have searched the internet and found that the effectiveness of a mask is minimal at best. What is the point of getting vaccinated if there is no benefit. Somebody at the VA ought to get their head out of their ass and treat us with some respect. We don't live in Nazi Germany or China so how about you do something about it.

A Totally Disgusted Marine!!!

Response by SFC Nora Aron made Oct 18 at 2021 5:10 PM

SFC Nora Aron — Mon, 18 Oct 2021 17:10:11 -0400

Can the VA provide a transparent method of viewing or obtaining phone numbers to all the clinics. Whenever a veteran needs the number to a clinic it’s like going through a security clearance to obtain any numbers

Response by Pvt Richard Irish made Oct 18 at 2021 5:11 PM

Pvt Richard Irish — Mon, 18 Oct 2021 17:11:23 -0400

Dear Secretary McDonough
I am very distressed and so is my Caregiver Wife. In January 2020 VA awarded me Aid and Attendance L1 because I am so seriously disabled that my wife has to take care of me in all Activities of Daily Living (ADLs)
In September 2021, without any prior notice or opportunity to be heard VA just summarily took away close to $400 a month in my VA disability benefits. No reason was given. The amount taken apparently is for Aid and Attendance L1.
Can you correct this error? Richard Indianapolis IN email [login to see]

Response by SP5 Timothy Skoh made Oct 18 at 2021 5:13 PM

SP5 Timothy Skoh — Mon, 18 Oct 2021 17:13:09 -0400

Why does the VA benefits, follow what Medicare offers to the retired Vets. both plans seem to be closely related.

Response by SPC Stacie Pease made Oct 18 at 2021 5:13 PM

SPC Stacie Pease — Mon, 18 Oct 2021 17:13:56 -0400

Why have providers become so afraid of repercussions that they’re too scared to be honest with us and provide good care?

Response by Pvt Troy Johnson made Oct 18 at 2021 5:16 PM

Pvt Troy Johnson — Mon, 18 Oct 2021 17:16:19 -0400

I am a disabled vet 100% disabled from an injury in boot camp, because I only attended boot camp I am not religionless for the VA Home loan, it makes no sense if I am 100 percent disabled receiving full medical benefits also, could this be changed to all 100% disabled are eligible regardless of length of service, it’s like I am being faulted and not worthy. My entire family has given service to the Military I did my diligence.

Response by SPC Alexander Rivier made Oct 18 at 2021 5:16 PM

SPC Alexander Rivier — Mon, 18 Oct 2021 17:16:46 -0400

My name is alexander rivier, my last 4# 5447. My currently 90% disabled. My question is simple why do veterans need too wait until they are 100% disabled before they qualify for dental insurance. And will this ever change.

Response by LT Myles Willingham made Oct 18 at 2021 5:18 PM

LT Myles Willingham — Mon, 18 Oct 2021 17:18:23 -0400

When will the VA provide gender affirming surgeries for transgender veterans?

Response by SSgt Jerry Godbey made Oct 18 at 2021 5:19 PM

SSgt Jerry Godbey — Mon, 18 Oct 2021 17:19:09 -0400

Mr. Secretary, I worked on fighters in Vietnam. Upon my departure I was tested for hearing loss and was told that it was significant, especially in the higher frequencies. I am currently service connected for tinnitus and hearing loss but no compensation is provided for hearing loss (10% for tinnitus) I have been tested many times by the VA and all agree that my hearing loss is probably due to working on fighters. I have difficulty understanding women and children with high voices and understanding anyone in noisy situations. Why isn't my hearing loss compensable?

Response by PO2 Michael Sheil made Oct 18 at 2021 5:19 PM

PO2 Michael Sheil — Mon, 18 Oct 2021 17:19:54 -0400

Mr. Secretary, why do you think there is so little interest in removing the Post-9/11 GI Bill's time limit for those military members who served on or after 9/11?

Response by PO1 Jim Alvarez made Oct 18 at 2021 5:23 PM

PO1 Jim Alvarez — Mon, 18 Oct 2021 17:23:42 -0400

As a former employee of the VA Regional Hospital in Loma Linda, CA hire Non-board Certified Doctors where I was Misdiagnosed 5 different times especially when my PSA was at 8.9 and the Doctor said I was find and tell me that I was stupid to go to Kaiser Permanente Medical Center in Riverside, CA to get a Prostate Biopsy two months later and they found that I had Stage one Prostate Cancer and had a Prostatectomy done by a Robotic Surgical Machine a month later at Kaiser Permanente Beverly Hills and now 10 years 5 months Cancer Free. These Doctors are dangerous to us Veterans and so many of these Non-board Certified Doctors continue to tear us Veterans with dangerous doctors like because the VA hires these Quacks.

Response by SFC Clinton Warren made Oct 18 at 2021 5:24 PM

SFC Clinton Warren — Mon, 18 Oct 2021 17:24:00 -0400

Why don't the phones at North texas cboc work

Response by MSgt Jennie Dahlby made Oct 18 at 2021 5:24 PM

MSgt Jennie Dahlby — Mon, 18 Oct 2021 17:24:13 -0400

Why does it take Community Care four months to respond to a request by the VA to make a doctor's appointment outside of the VA?

Response by SPC Timothy A. Eckert made Oct 18 at 2021 5:25 PM

SPC Timothy A. Eckert — Mon, 18 Oct 2021 17:25:01 -0400

Are you going to expand the deadline for the Gulf War vets to file and when will there be more illness added to the list?

Response by PO2 Donald Lathrop made Oct 18 at 2021 5:25 PM

PO2 Donald Lathrop — Mon, 18 Oct 2021 17:25:04 -0400

I would like to have backlog cleared with all these new people being hired, but it is same as always, denied unless you keep working the system, I am becoming to weak to work on this, guess you will find me under a bridge because cant work, keep getting denied even with lay statements, and have nothing to offer anyone for payment...thank you all veterans and let's start actually take care of them.

Response by PFC Laurie Doelle made Oct 18 at 2021 5:26 PM

PFC Laurie Doelle — Mon, 18 Oct 2021 17:26:05 -0400

Hello, I'm a disabled veteran from Desert Storm. Back in November of 2016, I applied for Champ VA insurance for my wife. I was told, if she had this insurance, she would be able to use the Houston VA hospital facility and its doctors. We applied, but for some reason she never received her Champ VA insurance card. I finally found out what had happened. We fixed the problem, and it shows on the card that her effective date was 10/24/2017. As it turns out, the Houston VA hospital stopped taking new family patient under the Champ VA program in April of that year, so when we went to the hospital, she was turned down to receive care. The reasoning was that there were to many family members coming to the hospital to receive care. But, she was clearly eligible, but they still denied her. My question is why? As far as I can see, she should be grandfathered in. It was no fault of mine that she didn't receive her insurance card in the mail in time before they changed the rule and stopped accepting new patients. All we were trying to to was get her into see the wonderful doctors that I am assigned to, Dr. Ansari in the women's clinic and Dr. Miller in the mental health clinic. Can anything be done please to allow her to use this awesome hospital and the wonderful doctors in it?
Thank you for your time in this matter and I'm so hoping to hear from you!

Laurie Doelle

Response by SGT Will Irwin made Oct 18 at 2021 5:27 PM

SGT Will Irwin — Mon, 18 Oct 2021 17:27:22 -0400

Why is the VA still giving shit care to Veterans?

I have zero faith in an appointed politician who really never makes a difference. This is nothing more than lip service and dog and pony shows from a government full of politicians who uses veterans to further their own careers.

Response by Capt Thomas Weber made Oct 18 at 2021 5:27 PM

Capt Thomas Weber — Mon, 18 Oct 2021 17:27:28 -0400

Mr. Secretary, I join the other Veterans who want to thank you for accepting this position with the DVA. I intentionally live in a remote area and am fortunate to have a VA Clinic near me. Can you please expand the services at VA Clinics? I had to drive to the nearest VA hospital just to get the COVID vaccine because the clinics were not supported for this.

Response by CPL Richard Murray made Oct 18 at 2021 5:28 PM

CPL Richard Murray — Mon, 18 Oct 2021 17:28:25 -0400

Dental problems can cause other health problems, but most are not eligible for dental care because we may have only served a limited time and have no service connected disability. I, like many, lost my existing health plan when Obamacare was instituted. Being on a very limited income, I could not afford a new plan and sought help from the VA where I now get all my health care needs, save dental care.

Some problems caused by poor dental conditions include:

Cardiovascular Disease. Having poor oral health puts a person at risk for heart disease. ...
Dementia. Poor oral health can affect the brain. ...
Respiratory Infections. ...
Diabetes. ...
Pregnancy Complications. ...
Infertility. ...
Erectile Dysfunction. ...
Cancer.

And more!

All of these problems are covered through the VA, but not the underlying causes. People such as myself cannot afford dental care so we suffer, and get treated for problems that may have been prevented through proper healthcare. Any way this can be addressed?

Response by CWO3 Carlene Curry made Oct 18 at 2021 5:28 PM

CWO3 Carlene Curry — Mon, 18 Oct 2021 17:28:30 -0400

Why are claims for hearing loss and/tinnitis denied based on the job a person held in service? If going to the range many times for weapons quals, regardless of job then the claim should not be denied just because of a job that was not always exposed to excessive noise.

Response by SPC Steven Mitchell made Oct 18 at 2021 5:30 PM

SPC Steven Mitchell — Mon, 18 Oct 2021 17:30:40 -0400

Why is my request for VA travel pay to a VA facility being denied for lack of proof if my visit is documented on Myhealthevet. I am unable to get ahold of the individual responsible as his mailbox is full on his telephone extension. Must I always get my congressman involved to resolution to my problems with the VA?

Response by PFC Mitchell Stapleton made Oct 18 at 2021 5:31 PM

PFC Mitchell Stapleton — Mon, 18 Oct 2021 17:31:03 -0400

Why is it so difficult for veterans to get the healthcare they require in a reasonable time? I have personally tried to get appointments, only to have them repeatedly set for 3 to 4 months out, and then have them canceled the day prior. Those individuals on Medicare / Medicaid receive better healthcare options than those of us injured defending our country.

Response by FN Marc De Anda made Oct 18 at 2021 5:33 PM

FN Marc De Anda — Mon, 18 Oct 2021 17:33:02 -0400

Why not offer vets the option for euthanasia for when the VA willfully does not want to help a vet medically and they lose their family and health and quality of life. Let vets have a dignified way of exiting this world.

Response by SGT Private RallyPoint Member made Oct 18 at 2021 5:34 PM

SGT Private RallyPoint Member — Mon, 18 Oct 2021 17:34:51 -0400

Mr. Secretary, thank you for taking the time out of your busy schedule to answer a few question from us, Veterans. I actually have two questions, 1. Why is the gap between the 100% rating and 90 - 80 percent rating with dependents over $1k? It seems too large of gap when the other other gaps are between $250 - $400.

Response by SGT Richard Domenden made Oct 18 at 2021 5:34 PM

SGT Richard Domenden — Mon, 18 Oct 2021 17:34:52 -0400

Mr. Secretary,
Will it be possible for you to relay this concern to our leaders in Congress. Our family members should be given the same privilege we service members/veterans to become a US citizen without going through red tapes and spending a lot of money to become one. I believe they deserve this privilege and it's long overdue.
Also, when will the VA allow the doctors to give those who use medical marijuana the card so they can purchase these "needed help" from a dispensary like the ones here in Florida. I used CBD when I was in Washington but now that I live in Florida I was told by my CBOC Doctor that I have to get the MM card from any physicians outside the VA if I want to buy CBD.

Thank you Sir.

Response by Cpl Paul Deitch made Oct 18 at 2021 5:35 PM

Cpl Paul Deitch — Mon, 18 Oct 2021 17:35:25 -0400

Mr. Secretary:
I have 2 appeals that I withdrew. When you go to Va.gov, it’s shows no appeals. That is correct, but when check the status of a claim, it still shows up. This dates back to July 2021 when appeals were withdrawn. Just would like to see it closed on status side.
Thank you

Response by CW5 Alexander Thibodeaux made Oct 18 at 2021 5:40 PM

CW5 Alexander Thibodeaux — Mon, 18 Oct 2021 17:40:29 -0400

Will you be denying hard working veterans access to VA health care based on whether or not they took the unapproved blood clot educing experimental covid19 vaccine which has cause more deaths based on VAERs data than if people would not have the vaccine?

Response by Sgt Rick Bass made Oct 18 at 2021 5:42 PM

Sgt Rick Bass — Mon, 18 Oct 2021 17:42:13 -0400

Dear Mr. Secretary,

I recently had a wonderful experience at the Southern Arizona VA Health Care System in Tucson, AZ.
VA social worker, Annis R. Reyes Frias, was outstanding - serving me with compassion, professionalism and competence in providing answers to my important questions. She represents the best in veteran health care. I was able to accomplish an "Advance Directive" with her assistance. Advance Directives empower veterans to prepare for critical health care decisions under calm reflection and not end-of-life crisis management. I suggest the VA emphasize the need for completion of this important document by all veterans. Thank you for your concern, care and dedication to those who served and are serving.

Response by PO1 David Finley made Oct 18 at 2021 5:42 PM

PO1 David Finley — Mon, 18 Oct 2021 17:42:48 -0400

WHERSE my reimbursment for VEAP contribution held by the VA for 35 years?? And why was my claim for anestiicia denied for open heart surgery 10 years ago?? And when do ya think ya gonna audit GPD
accounts for non-performance by agencies??

Response by CPT Robin Cathcart made Oct 18 at 2021 5:43 PM

CPT Robin Cathcart — Mon, 18 Oct 2021 17:43:36 -0400

Why won't the Houston, Texas VAMC refund me the money it owes for my payments for outside medical care and HISA approved items, totaling $9,058.92?

Response by Sgt Marlin Johnson made Oct 18 at 2021 5:43 PM

Sgt Marlin Johnson — Mon, 18 Oct 2021 17:43:59 -0400

Mr. Secretary, I wonder why ALL Vets are not entitled to free VA Health Care. I think it is unfair that I served my country and have to pay for VA care if I decide to use it.

Response by SPC Lincoln Tiffin made Oct 18 at 2021 5:44 PM

SPC Lincoln Tiffin — Mon, 18 Oct 2021 17:44:02 -0400

When is the VA going to recognize the contamination at Fort McClellan? Far to many Veterans including myself who have developed health issues including death and the VA refuses to set up a Health Registry.
Thank you
Lincoln Tiffin

Response by SrA Shannon S made Oct 18 at 2021 5:44 PM

SrA Shannon S — Mon, 18 Oct 2021 17:44:06 -0400

Will VA EVER acknowledge the medical issues those of us who have been poisoned with PFAS are experiencing? There’s an ENTIRE GENERATION of female vets going into peri menopause a Decade early. Dozens of KNOWN Illnesses, who knows how many more unknown, and no one will listen. When do you start treating PFAS POISON VETS?

Response by SP5 Douglas Smith made Oct 18 at 2021 5:44 PM

SP5 Douglas Smith — Mon, 18 Oct 2021 17:44:08 -0400

Why does the VA provide very sophisticated Hearing aids with no technical training, scheduled follow up, or replacement for 5 years? My new hearing aids can be controlled with a smart phone. The audiology clinic offered to pair my phone; that was it. I'm fine with it and can use the app on my one. Many older Vets can't I won't go 5 years without retesting, but I have to get it in the real world. The VA provides very nice equipment, but poor follow up and rickity repair service.

Response by SPC Tim Collins made Oct 18 at 2021 5:44 PM

SPC Tim Collins — Mon, 18 Oct 2021 17:44:53 -0400

Why can’t someone straighten out the OKC VA hospital. No one answers the phones in clinics. Individuals in specialty clinics are rude in person. Customer service snd director office will not do anything. You can’t even talk to the front office on the phones. The operators are told don’t transfer c as pls to directors suite. This was told by one of the operators. They were told by director they would be fired if they do.

Response by SGT Richard Hoskins made Oct 18 at 2021 5:46 PM

SGT Richard Hoskins — Mon, 18 Oct 2021 17:46:34 -0400

Why is the Foreign Medical Program so antiquated? Veterans are required to pay first and wait to be reimbursed with no Guarantees. Also, they do not get the same level of coverage from the VA as if they resided in the states or a country that has a VA Clinic! For example a 100% Svc Connected Veteran gets only reimbursed for the elements of svc connection if one of the other locations they get fully services to include dental prescription etc.... Is it time to merge the FMP with TriCare or the whole system under a insurance type card scheme? Look at Australia they get a Gold card

Response by Sgt George Gingerella made Oct 18 at 2021 5:46 PM

Sgt George Gingerella — Mon, 18 Oct 2021 17:46:42 -0400

As a 100% disabled vet I am fortunate to have medical coverage and most meds provided by VA. My wife has medical and prescription coverage under Champ VA. I have a non - Hodgkin’s Lymphoma as a result in service exposure to numerous chemicals years ago. I get a lot of lung infections and am not near a VA facility so I go to a walk in clinic (non VA) and am given a prescription, usually an expensive antibiotic I have to purchase that at a local drugstore. Many times I have submitted for reimbursement for those meds but am NEVER reimbursed while my wife who can go to any medical facility for the same thing has her meds paid for by Champ VA
. What’s wrong here ? She actually has better prescription coverage than I do and her coverage is because of my disability.
Why would my wife’s prescription be covered (less a 25%co pay ) and I have to beg to try to be reimbursed for meds and jump through fifteen hoops in the process —- and still not be reimbursed.
In situations when I’m diagnosed with pretty severe phenomena shouldn’t my non VA prescription be covered?

Response by SGT Robert Patton made Oct 18 at 2021 5:47 PM

SGT Robert Patton — Mon, 18 Oct 2021 17:47:38 -0400

Glad the va finally recognized that agent orange causes hypothyroid disease I have a claim filed

Response by SPC Richard Mortellaro made Oct 18 at 2021 5:53 PM

SPC Richard Mortellaro — Mon, 18 Oct 2021 17:53:07 -0400

Yes why has it taken almost 1 year for my benefits appeal to be decided. Sent November 2020,Still no decision.

Response by SGT Private RallyPoint Member made Oct 18 at 2021 5:53 PM

SGT Private RallyPoint Member — Mon, 18 Oct 2021 17:53:09 -0400

why are veterans last to get anything as far housing and healthcare compared to refugees? its like we are 3rd class citizens.

Response by SSG Bob Redden made Oct 18 at 2021 5:53 PM

SSG Bob Redden — Mon, 18 Oct 2021 17:53:42 -0400

Will agent orange presumptive be re-considered for hypertension??

Response by PVT Orlando Henderson made Oct 18 at 2021 5:54 PM

PVT Orlando Henderson — Mon, 18 Oct 2021 17:54:25 -0400

Why is there such a great disparity in benefits, care, and programs between Gulf War Veterans and Post 9/11 veterans?

Response by CAPT Phil Herr made Oct 18 at 2021 5:54 PM

CAPT Phil Herr — Mon, 18 Oct 2021 17:54:52 -0400

WHY DONT WE USE THERMAL SCANNNING AT THE HOSPITAL

FOR HEALTH AND SECURITY

Response by PVT Ross Dominique made Oct 18 at 2021 5:56 PM

PVT Ross Dominique — Mon, 18 Oct 2021 17:56:46 -0400

why is my claim taking over 2 years and now it's in washington

Response by PVT David Cavagna made Oct 18 at 2021 5:56 PM

PVT David Cavagna — Mon, 18 Oct 2021 17:56:59 -0400

Hi I was honorably discharged in 1976, I was having strange bleeding problems so I was sent to the hospital they couldn’t figure our t what was causing the hemorrhaging out of my mouth and nose so eventually I was discharged. Years later in my 30s a VA hematologist noticed my blood counts were abnormal and I was diagnosed with a blood-bone cancer and given chemotherapy pills to take the rest of my life and also given permanent and total disability. To my surprise though when I went to apply for a VA loan for a house I was told I didn’t qualify do to the time in service and to get my discharge changed so that it says it had to do with medical reasons. I’m now 62 and being told it’s impossible to change it this many years later. Can you help me with this issue?

Response by PO3 Steven Boguszewski made Oct 18 at 2021 5:57 PM

PO3 Steven Boguszewski — Mon, 18 Oct 2021 17:57:56 -0400

2 Questions why have it on Veterans Day when there are activities celebrations for us all around does not make sense!! The other is how come military personal with 100% disability Rating, can’t get a sales tax deferent for All States. for ourselves, And free fishing,and a lifetime pass to our Nation Park System in American. We sacrificed our lives, Injures in Combat for the FREEDOM IN AMERICA.

Response by PO1 Johnny Brown made Oct 18 at 2021 5:58 PM

PO1 Johnny Brown — Mon, 18 Oct 2021 17:58:07 -0400

When will we see the "Fair Care for Vietnam Veterans Act of 2021" implemented. I can be done by the Sec VA without waiting for Congress!

Response by Sgt George Gingerella made Oct 18 at 2021 5:59 PM

Sgt George Gingerella — Mon, 18 Oct 2021 17:59:38 -0400

I am a 100% disabled vet whose disability was due to chemical exposure while in the Air Force 1967-1971. I am diagnosed with a non Hodgkins Lymphoma and have a lot of issues with my lungs as a result of my exposure. I do get pneumonia often and have to get medications in me ASAP. If I am not near an open VA clinic or Hospital I’ll go to a local hospital or walk in clinic who will generally put me on an expensive antibiotic and steroids. The prescriptions will be sent to a local drugstore and I go in and pay for them — usually around $100.
No matter how many times I have tried to get reimbursed I am turned down or totally ignored by VA. I’m told by VA that I should report to their emergency room and that way meds will be provided by them. I am also told I should call them before going to an outside facility and then they will cover the meds. Just try it it doesn’t happen.
My wife who has Champ VA because of my disability actually has BETTER medical coverage than I do. If she has an emergency similar to what I described her meds would be covered (minus a 25% co-pay.
What’s wrong here ?

Response by A1C Carl Sr. Mellott made Oct 18 at 2021 6:03 PM

A1C Carl Sr. Mellott — Mon, 18 Oct 2021 18:03:05 -0400

My concern is about Community Care. While I appreciate it very much, the way it works now, however I think that it could be extended by a different criteria to be able to use it in a more extensive way. When you have a doctor 30/40 miles over the mountains in the VA system, I think that I should be able to go to a doctor 5 minutes from my house to be cared for. Again I'm grateful for the community care service that I do get. Thank you for your time in this matter.

Response by SSG Gerald Pinder made Oct 18 at 2021 6:03 PM

SSG Gerald Pinder — Mon, 18 Oct 2021 18:03:13 -0400

My question is and I want an answer.. I have been going to the SLC VA hospital for 27 years.. I have no complaints about the hospital I receive extremely good care there.. but I want to know WHY after all these years I was denied travel pay to see my Dr's.. especially since the price of Gas has gone sky high thanks to your boss Joe Biden

Response by SPC Roger McGill made Oct 18 at 2021 6:04 PM

SPC Roger McGill — Mon, 18 Oct 2021 18:04:49 -0400

Mr. Secretary - It has been said that more people will be hired to help with the backlog of Benefits & Appeals. But that will take some time to train these people. What is the objective date to start with them in the mix, and is there a target date to have these Appeals completed by? We know that COVID was a Big impact on many things, and has backlogged many things. Thanks for you comment on this and answer.

Response by SSgt Bruce Thompson made Oct 18 at 2021 6:06 PM

SSgt Bruce Thompson — Mon, 18 Oct 2021 18:06:26 -0400

My question to Secretary McDonough: currently veterans with 100% service connected disability has eligibility for spousal death benefits after 10 years of awarded disability in the event of the veterans death. Any possibility that spousal eligibility regs or statutes could be changed to reduce the number years to 5 or even 3 years? There are a lot of widows that are thrown into a state of poverty after the veteran has passed. Kind regards, SSGT Bruce L Thompson

Response by SFC Mike Briley made Oct 18 at 2021 6:06 PM

SFC Mike Briley — Mon, 18 Oct 2021 18:06:41 -0400

When filing for dependents, your website states Wards can sometimes be included ( I am a Guardian), but every time I claim him, they state that Wards are never allowed dependency status? This would be about a $100.00 increase, but it is just automatically denied.
Thank you.

Response by Pat Miller made Oct 18 at 2021 6:09 PM

Pat Miller — Mon, 18 Oct 2021 18:09:46 -0400

Why does the VA seem to considerAD/service-connected survivors to be at the bottom of the food chain? There are 439,000 serviving spouses that receive DIC and other benefits but you have a 2 person office to deal with survivor issues. Many of your employees don't have any idea about what survivor benefits are. Not 50% of the veteran's compensation! Many of your employees are not sensitive to dealing with survivivors and our issues. Not what you say but how you say it. Additional training might be called for. Finally, if the IT systems were integrated at the VA, we would not receive phone calls from VBA employees about our deceased veterans benefits because death seems to be noted on the VHA system. There are many great people that work for the VA but its sometimes like pulling teeth! I have been a customer of the VA for 20 years and will continue to be a customer until I die. Can you please insure that we are not forgotten?

Pat Collins Miller
Widow of SGT Danny J Miller
Army (11B) 1965-68

Response by CPO Ernest Morehead made Oct 18 at 2021 6:12 PM

CPO Ernest Morehead — Mon, 18 Oct 2021 18:12:42 -0400

stop the va from charging 100% disable service connected veterans private health plan for services at the va which is suppose to be free. and while you are at that the entire va system needs a complete over hall. I get much better help at a local hospital

Response by CMSAF John Williams made Oct 18 at 2021 6:13 PM

CMSAF John Williams — Mon, 18 Oct 2021 18:13:00 -0400

When I requested a copy of my claim file through the VA's FOIA system as required, I waited for 11 months to get it. We need a streamlined method of obtaining our claim file information. Are there any current initiatives or plans that would enable a veteran to access his/her records real time and obtain copies of needed information from those files in a more timely and efficient manner.

Response by SSgt Private RallyPoint Member made Oct 18 at 2021 6:13 PM

SSgt Private RallyPoint Member — Mon, 18 Oct 2021 18:13:17 -0400

Hello, will Veterans ever be able to obtain medical Marijuana cards for pain (issued by the VA). I will not be using this, but I know many vets that can benefit from this, in dealing with pain/ptsd, instead of just pills.

Response by CPL Bob Bennett made Oct 18 at 2021 6:15 PM

CPL Bob Bennett — Mon, 18 Oct 2021 18:15:11 -0400

I like to know why the VA is not replacing my resperonics sleep machine that's causing cancer ....the VA Castle point new York won't do anything to help me with new machine..I don't want to die of cancer .

Response by SFC Mike Briley made Oct 18 at 2021 6:21 PM

SFC Mike Briley — Mon, 18 Oct 2021 18:21:30 -0400

Sir, I am in a Guardianship/Ward situation. I have had custody since he was ten months old, and he is currently a month away from being 16 years old. When I file for dependency status on him, your website, along with regulations state awards can sometimes receive dependency status. It always comes back that Wards do not get this status. This would be around a $100.00 per month increase. How come it is automatically flat out denied if refs and your website say he could be?
Thank you,
Michael

Response by SPC Jerry Bodine made Oct 18 at 2021 6:21 PM

SPC Jerry Bodine — Mon, 18 Oct 2021 18:21:59 -0400

Mister secretary. I have been trying for several years to get understanding of why I was awarded a disability percentage and once I was granted my secondary claim in my favor the v a took my complete claim but still lists me as of today with disability rating. No will give me a definite answer I feel as if I served my country just to be spit on by my v a . I'm sure nothing as usual will be done. Would truly just like to know why. Thank you for your time. Have a great day.

Response by PO2 Keith Greba made Oct 18 at 2021 6:24 PM

PO2 Keith Greba — Mon, 18 Oct 2021 18:24:12 -0400

I live in Alaska. Iam a 100 percent p/t veteran. I find it very hard to get things done in the va. To get my treatment it take numerous phone calls to get treatment then I wait. Nothing happens. I call again. We need a patient advocate for veterans that we call and they make the calls and get things set up instead the veteran. I call and will be on hold for hours then the call drops. Gets frustrating to deal with the va health care system. If I remember right it’s the veteran that this system works for we wrote the blank check.

Response by SSG Terry Voss made Oct 18 at 2021 6:24 PM

SSG Terry Voss — Mon, 18 Oct 2021 18:24:49 -0400

Why does the Omaha VA not participate in Community Care for Cardiology? I had a heart ablation outside the VA, have had a heart attack and have seen an outside Cardiologist for 20+ years. I am service connected for Ischemic Heart Disease. They tell me I live too close for Community Care, and must do all of my Cardiology at the VA to qualify for meds. Said I need to be 60 miles away. I have to buy my arrhythmia meds on the outside as VA won't furnish them.

Response by Col Private RallyPoint Member made Oct 18 at 2021 6:25 PM

Col Private RallyPoint Member — Mon, 18 Oct 2021 18:25:06 -0400

I’ve had repeated referrals for cancer treatment canceled with no explanation. Is the VA hoping I’ll die so they don’t have to pay?

Response by PO2 Robert Summers made Oct 18 at 2021 6:25 PM

PO2 Robert Summers — Mon, 18 Oct 2021 18:25:32 -0400

With so many injuries missing from service members' medical records, why is the process to get these properly documented, entered into the medical record and subsequently cared for and/or compensated for, so ridiculously tedious and basically impossible to complete?

Is denying the claim numerous times with zero explanation really providing the veteran the best care? How is requiring the veteran to locate a service member that they served with 30+ years ago with absolute zero chance to find them - (THEN the located "witness" must remember the incident that happened to someone else), providing the veteran proper care and fair compensation? All this frustrating process because our medical staff (at that time), FAILED?

Response by SPC Charles Gajewski made Oct 18 at 2021 6:26 PM

SPC Charles Gajewski — Mon, 18 Oct 2021 18:26:51 -0400

Why is it veterans have to put up with pain with this anti opiod policy. I went to er could not move with out excruciating pain found out I had heniated disk in my back gave me 1 Percocet didn't help said talk to my Dr. My doctor said couldn't do it if its still painfoll go to er for more. Go figure so whars up with this.70 yr old vet.

Response by SPC Dennis McMahon made Oct 18 at 2021 6:29 PM

SPC Dennis McMahon — Mon, 18 Oct 2021 18:29:19 -0400

Why; after receiving my eye glasses from VA free of charge for over 30 years, did I have to pay over $200.00 for lenses. It was a new company issuing the glasses. I emailed the West Palm Beach, FL. VA Hospital admin. and I got NO RESPONSE! I’m on Social Security and 72 years old. This I considered a slap in the face by the VA.

Response by SrA Jason Chambers made Oct 18 at 2021 6:29 PM

SrA Jason Chambers — Mon, 18 Oct 2021 18:29:52 -0400

What's it gonna take to get quality healthcare? We all put our lives on the line and the best we get if 2 month wait-periods while Congress gets their pockets stuffed by "Big Pharma"

Response by PFC Charles Owens made Oct 18 at 2021 6:30 PM

PFC Charles Owens — Mon, 18 Oct 2021 18:30:33 -0400

Why does the VA cuts the pension in half when you get social security

Response by A1C John Nolan made Oct 18 at 2021 6:31 PM

A1C John Nolan — Mon, 18 Oct 2021 18:31:33 -0400

Dear Mr. Secretary:
I am a disabled veteran, retired from the airline industry and would like to install solar panels on my roof. The government allows for a tax deduction for such an upgrade but in my case I have no tax deduction available to me. All I have is Social Security, my VA disability and a very small pension from Pan Am. Is there anything the government can do for us vets to help the environment by reducing our carbon footprint and lowering our utility bill. Thank you for your time - John R. Nolan Largo, Florida

Response by Lt Col Hubert Chatman made Oct 18 at 2021 6:32 PM

Lt Col Hubert Chatman — Mon, 18 Oct 2021 18:32:16 -0400

Can veterans over 65 get free use of gyms such as the YMCA? This will hopefully keep medical cost down.

Response by SPC James Ghrist made Oct 18 at 2021 6:32 PM

SPC James Ghrist — Mon, 18 Oct 2021 18:32:21 -0400

Secretary McDonough. I must point out to you a serious shortfall of service to many thousands of disabled veterans today,, and possibly millions since the founding of the V.A., almost 100 years ago.
I'm talking about those like me who live alone with their most loved house members, their pets even! They are all vital "Service Animals" to those like myself. I've had to miss "In-Patient"surgeries and extended "In-Patient" treatment, only because I had no one to care for my beloved animation!
Sir, I must propose to you that every major V.A.M.C. be outfitted with a smaller staffed Veterinary Clinic for "Alone In-Patient Disabled Veterans"!'massive proposing 10 to 20 cages per V.A.M.C.! While the veteran heals, they know that they can go down to visit, and re-assure their most loved kids, whether a dog, or cat!It's medically proven that the patient does so much better when the're given access to their most loved one's teen! There has never been a better time for You to make such beneficial impact in the lives of veterans in general, and "Alone Veterans", in particular!
Secretary McDonough, I've been a spinally injured, service connected disabled veteran for 40 years now. Due to long term P.T.S.D. I was always most comfortable living alone. Though, while living & working in Michigan, and having family nearby, they never were there to help.
In 2007, I retired to Florida with no old friends, or siblings within 1000 miles. I struggle daily with pain, and financial insecurity!
I need your help. Create, and staff 24/7 these Veterinary Care Clinics, at every V.A.M.C.!
Thank You Sir!
James Ghrist/3398.

Response by SGT Richard Morley made Oct 18 at 2021 6:35 PM

SGT Richard Morley — Mon, 18 Oct 2021 18:35:06 -0400

What is the status of the proposal to add Hypertension to the list of Agent Orange presumptives?

Response by LT Bob Weng made Oct 18 at 2021 6:35 PM

LT Bob Weng — Mon, 18 Oct 2021 18:35:36 -0400

Since 2003, veterans have not been able to complete registration for VA medical or receive an ID card unless they meet certain criteria (disability, etc.) or meet income requirements. Why aren't all honorably discharged veterans able to receive an ID card even if we are not using VA health benefits?

Response by SrA Michael Chittenden made Oct 18 at 2021 6:36 PM

SrA Michael Chittenden — Mon, 18 Oct 2021 18:36:49 -0400

I think it would be helpful if there was a way to pay veterans like 15 a month to go to a gym 12 times a month. The rewards would be a more health veteran society.

Response by MSgt Dwight Alexander made Oct 18 at 2021 6:44 PM

MSgt Dwight Alexander — Mon, 18 Oct 2021 18:44:06 -0400

Why cant we get better and quicker service from VA claims. Denials with zero response isnt acceptable in my humble opinion. No answers is the norm and I dont expect to get one now. Pathetic is giving the service credit!

Response by MSgt jESSE Jones made Oct 18 at 2021 6:45 PM

MSgt jESSE Jones — Mon, 18 Oct 2021 18:45:31 -0400

How can I get all of my records of my TDY's and Travel Vouchers I was on Duty 4 Mar 1970 - 5 May 1990. The Archives do not seem to have those record's.

Response by A1C Russell Tye made Oct 18 at 2021 6:47 PM

A1C Russell Tye — Mon, 18 Oct 2021 18:47:04 -0400

One problem that I see is I don't have a primary care physician. Everytime I see a doctor, it's a different one. I didn't like not having a regular doctor that knows me and my set of problems.

Response by GySgt Jeff Mulholland made Oct 18 at 2021 6:47 PM

GySgt Jeff Mulholland — Mon, 18 Oct 2021 18:47:13 -0400

Why is veteran who served 14 years of honorable service denied VA benefits just because they were not in a combat zone? There wasn’t a whole lot of action going on from 78 - 92. They served during desert shield and desert storm but were not in theatre. I think it is utterly ridiculous that anyone who served honorably is denied VA benefits.

Response by SP5 Clarence Hodges made Oct 18 at 2021 6:47 PM

SP5 Clarence Hodges — Mon, 18 Oct 2021 18:47:14 -0400

,WHY DON'T YOU EXPAND THE JOLIET, ILL CLINIC AND PROVIDE THE SAME SERVICES THAT WE HAVE TO GO TO HINES IN MAYWOOD, IL. IT IS VERY HARD TO USE HINES BUT A LOT OF THE SPECIAL DOCTORS ONLY WORK FROM THERE. THE JOLIET CLINIC IS LOCATED IN AN OLD UNUSED HOSPITAL THAT HAS PLENTY OF SPACE AND COULD BE EXPANDED. THIS WOULD PROVIDE NEEDED CARE TO THE SOUTHERN AREA VETS IT IS EASILY ACCESSED AND BETTER LAID OUT THEN HINES

Response by SSgt Gregory LaRue made Oct 18 at 2021 6:49 PM

SSgt Gregory LaRue — Mon, 18 Oct 2021 18:49:25 -0400

Hello My name is Gregory Larue and I live Utah and deal with the VA in Salt Lake City. I transferred to the main hospital in Salt lake, due to I was having too many issues getting the health care I need at the Ogden clinic, and wanted a real PHD Doctor. I am a 100% disabled vet and am also a full time Government employee. I have burned a lot of sick leave for my appointment in the past, but not anymore. I get every other Friday off as I work 9 hour shifts. I do all my appointments now on my Friday that I have off, as I will not use my medical leave anymore. Now I have called the patient advocate several times and have gotten know where as they have directed me to the Ogden clinic, but as I told them they do not see patients on Friday for chiropractic as I have been seen through local care. I have called the White House, and currently have a congressional ongoing as to this very issue. They are trying to force me to go to the Ogden Clinic to see this guy who is trying to force all the vets in the area to go to him for this service. Your help in getting this VA Hospital to understand they are trying to send me to a facility that is not acceptable to my availability. There is a lot of issues at the facility. Thank you

Response by SPC Dempsey Holloway made Oct 18 at 2021 6:52 PM

SPC Dempsey Holloway — Mon, 18 Oct 2021 18:52:05 -0400

I kept being told by one VA rep after another that I didn't qualify for the 9/11 GI Bill, when I felt I did quality for a percentage of it. Finally, I spoke to a rep that confirmed I qualified. Upon processing for crane operating school, I was again told I did not qualify. Upon further inquiry, I found the window of opportunity had expired. It was when I was within the window of opportunity that I had been getting rejected. Shouldn't the VA make it right with me?

Response by FA Anthony Duran made Oct 18 at 2021 7:00 PM

FA Anthony Duran — Mon, 18 Oct 2021 19:00:10 -0400

Mr. Secretary. Requesting that a site be created where Veterans can post adverse effects caused by the COVID-19 vaccination. Vaccinated veterans are having problems and a forum to post and discuss this would be helpful.

Response by SPC Joseph Garceau made Oct 18 at 2021 7:07 PM

SPC Joseph Garceau — Mon, 18 Oct 2021 19:07:31 -0400

Mr. Secretary,

According to information on va.gov, veterans and their family members who served at Camp Lejeune or MCAS New River for at least 30 cumulative days from August 1953 through December 1987 are treated differently in regard to contact with contaminants in the drinking water there. The list of presumptive conditions for the veteran includes Parkinson's disease. However, the list of conditions for which family members may be reimbursed for out-of-pocket health care costs does not include Parkinson's disease. Please explain the difference. If this item doesn't make the virtual town hall, please respond through Rally Point.

Sincerely,
Joe Garceau

Response by PO1 Douglas Davis made Oct 18 at 2021 7:10 PM

PO1 Douglas Davis — Mon, 18 Oct 2021 19:10:06 -0400

Why isn't the VA aggressively seeking replacement Urgent Care Doctors for the Redding VA clinic, as Redding serves most of Northern California into Oregon. This forces our Northern California Veterans to seek emergency care outside of the VA?

Response by Amn Robert Davis made Oct 18 at 2021 7:10 PM

Amn Robert Davis — Mon, 18 Oct 2021 19:10:51 -0400

How many years do I have to wait to get my benefits for service connection it's been 7 years are you waiting on me to die

Response by PO2 Patrick Cady made Oct 18 at 2021 7:15 PM

PO2 Patrick Cady — Mon, 18 Oct 2021 19:15:42 -0400

I served in the U.S.Navy from 1980 to 1986 and it seems that unless a person served in a War our Service does not seem to count. Many Service Members between Vietnam and all the Desert Wars to Iraq and Afghanistan have fallen through the cracks. Many have been hurt or exposed to Chemicals have been through different Traumas and I want the Military to Honor our Service as well. No matter if its Peace time or not Service is Service.

Response by Debra Thomas-Trimble made Oct 18 at 2021 7:16 PM

Debra Thomas-Trimble — Mon, 18 Oct 2021 19:16:44 -0400

I am an active duty deceased widow. When my husband died, I had great advice from my CACO officer and he was around for a couple years to answer questions. One thing never covered was the trauma to my 5 year old daughter. She never received any therapy to deal with her loss and her doctors never made any recommendation for it. Now as an adult, she has problems dealing with her father being absent in her life. She is now undergoing therapy, but it is expensive. Why can we not offer therapy to adult children of deceased members? I understand that your budget is not unlimited, but these adult children, as well as us spouses who did not get help deserve something. Thank you for your time.

Response by SGT Michael Buckley made Oct 18 at 2021 7:17 PM

SGT Michael Buckley — Mon, 18 Oct 2021 19:17:40 -0400

I would ask, "what is the plan for issuing ID cards for disabled Vets that are not 100% disabled?" I have the veteran medical ID but no installation I've gone to will accept it as proof of my veteran status.

Response by LCDR William Higgins [LION1000+] made Oct 18 at 2021 7:18 PM

LCDR William Higgins [LION1000+] — Mon, 18 Oct 2021 19:18:24 -0400

Veteran homelessness is up 50 percent over before covid levels here in Maine. It is also taking over double the time to place individuals in housing. Can the VA fund more creation of affordable housing (at or below Fair Market Rent levels), purchase hotels/motels to become permanent or transitional housing?

Response by Amn Private RallyPoint Member made Oct 18 at 2021 7:20 PM

Amn Private RallyPoint Member — Mon, 18 Oct 2021 19:20:34 -0400

Upon reaching age 65 both the VA and CMS recommend signing up for Medicare. Why do I need to have both federal programs?

Response by CPO Donald Crisp made Oct 18 at 2021 7:23 PM

CPO Donald Crisp — Mon, 18 Oct 2021 19:23:53 -0400

Mr. Secretary,
I have several questions I could ask, but this one is most important to me right now.
Why would a double amputee who recently had a massive heart attack, compounded by moderately severe PTSD, and severe spinal stenosis, be denied an electric scooter and hoist for his vehicle.

Response by LCDR William Higgins [LION1000+] made Oct 18 at 2021 7:24 PM

LCDR William Higgins [LION1000+] — Mon, 18 Oct 2021 19:24:05 -0400

Many VA disability claims were rejected over the past two decades for medical issues that are now approved to receive VA disability payments. Can the VA have a study to find those cases and now grant approvals for the benefits from now on? Many veterans that had claims rejected may not be aware of recent changes and deserve the benefits from now on.

Response by CPL O.E. Russ made Oct 18 at 2021 7:24 PM

CPL O.E. Russ — Mon, 18 Oct 2021 19:24:42 -0400

How can you help a Vietnam war veteran, ‘69 - ‘70, (18 month tour), with trying to get some disability from a degenerative back ailment that we believe is caused by Agent Orange. When I sent them a letter asking for some help, they responded that it was not due to Agent Orange. I was there during some of the worst fighting and ran convoys all through the mountain passes and jungle areas ! I have tried not to get a layer and sue the people I fought for ? What or who can I speak with ??

Response by SPC Anthony Shannon made Oct 18 at 2021 7:26 PM

SPC Anthony Shannon — Mon, 18 Oct 2021 19:26:11 -0400

When I got out of the Army I had back problems, bilateral knee problems and hearing loss. The only thing I received a rating for was bilateral knee problems. I was on major pain meds when I was discharged. It has taken me 43 years trying to get back pay for my problems. When it finally reached VA ratings board in Washington D.C. I was denied all of my problems even though it was in my military record. Trying to get justice from the VA is a damn joke!!

Response by PO2 Paul Smith made Oct 18 at 2021 7:28 PM

PO2 Paul Smith — Mon, 18 Oct 2021 19:28:36 -0400

I am a Vietnam Navy vet who served on a submarine (submerged and surfaced) within the area the VA presumes that a health problem I have is related to agent orange exposure. Though much of my boat's ship's logs are public record in the National Archives, VN operations of my and other submarines are still classified and the ships logs of VN deployment do not exist in the National Archives thus, the VA will not acknowledge my and other's claims. I know this to be true of other submarine VN veterans. How can VN vets who are agent orange victims through still classified operations supposed to validate their claims?

Response by LCDR William Higgins [LION1000+] made Oct 18 at 2021 7:34 PM

LCDR William Higgins [LION1000+] — Mon, 18 Oct 2021 19:34:29 -0400

Can the VA expedite payments of rental assistance funds for veterans at risk of homelessness? This could be on a temporary basis until the funds are reimbursed by the HUD/Treasury rental assistance programs?

Response by CPT Cathleen Kelly made Oct 18 at 2021 7:36 PM

CPT Cathleen Kelly — Mon, 18 Oct 2021 19:36:19 -0400

Why does it take so long to make a VA appointment via phone these days?

Response by TSgt Kace Chapman made Oct 18 at 2021 7:39 PM

TSgt Kace Chapman — Mon, 18 Oct 2021 19:39:12 -0400

I feel like the VA is a male dominated world, we still get asked if our spouses are the Vets as if it's not common knowledge that women serve also. It's pretty maddening the they assume you are the Mrs. and not the Veteran. To my point I believe Women's issues need to be just as important and taken seriously, I'd like my pain or my issues to be given the same treatment as a man, so what are you doing to make sure that us female Vet's are truly taken care of, seen and heard; from Doctor appointments to the disability claim process.

Response by SCPO Kathryn Bates made Oct 18 at 2021 7:43 PM

SCPO Kathryn Bates — Mon, 18 Oct 2021 19:43:33 -0400

We need many more specialists answering the phone for Community Care. Hire vets to do the job. It can take many tries and many hours to get through, and they are the gateway for so much care.

Response by PVT Edwin Lopez made Oct 18 at 2021 7:44 PM

PVT Edwin Lopez — Mon, 18 Oct 2021 19:44:01 -0400

Why are Claim Hearings and Appeals taking so long to process in the BVA

Response by TSgt Lamont Stanton made Oct 18 at 2021 7:50 PM

TSgt Lamont Stanton — Mon, 18 Oct 2021 19:50:57 -0400

Many veterans using the VA Home Loan program are struggling to buy homes in 2021. It’s been nearly impossible to compete with conventional loan home buyers in large markets around the country. What can the VA do to address the limitations of the VA Home Loan program to help veterans purchase homes in this highly competitive market?

Response by Amn Kevin Engle made Oct 18 at 2021 7:51 PM

Amn Kevin Engle — Mon, 18 Oct 2021 19:51:57 -0400

There is only one question that I have. What specific actions are being taken by your administration to combat Veteran suicide? I see the VA every single year talk about how actions are being taken, but I never see or hear about what any of those actions actually are.

Response by SPC Cliff Wiget made Oct 18 at 2021 7:52 PM

SPC Cliff Wiget — Mon, 18 Oct 2021 19:52:31 -0400

Mr. Secretary, why is there an absence at the Department of Veterans Affairs of any long term proactive counseling or programs for Veterans struggling with thoughts of suicide? The Veteran Crisis Line does its job well in deescallating a Veteran in crisis(5-stars) but there doesn't seem to be a process in place at Veterans Affairs to offer sustained long term preventative mental health care. Thank you for your time Mr. Secretary.

Response by SGT Jody Everett Peterson made Oct 18 at 2021 7:53 PM

SGT Jody Everett Peterson — Mon, 18 Oct 2021 19:53:33 -0400

Mr Secretary. My Mother was a WAC working on the Manhattan Project 1945 at Hanford WA.. She died of leukemia in 1964. I was also exposed to the same lethal dose (that killed my mother) of radiation as a fetus. I am (now) a veteran (1967 to 1973) and the VA has told me years ago that i was exposed. I have had many immune problems (to things that do not appear in nature) and emotional problems. The emotional problems cost my marriage! Who is responsible for my unnecessary damage and my mothers leukemia. General Groves KNEW that 1n 1943 in Selafield England they KNEW women should not be exposed because a woman's eggs are for life and a male's sperm regenerates every 8 days. He wrote a book that said "Now it can be Told". I don't think so...Thank you Sir. ( [login to see] / [login to see]

Response by SPC Jeremy Myer made Oct 18 at 2021 7:55 PM

SPC Jeremy Myer — Mon, 18 Oct 2021 19:55:18 -0400

Why are Vietnam veterans that have cancer and exposed Agent Orange being denied benefits? For example a marine veteran has tonsil cancer and under their disability rating it says tonsil cancer, cause agent orange, not service connected. How can it not be service connected?
Why can you find cases under the veterans board of appeals that has the exact same case and those people are awarded 100% and yet when you submit this as evidence for your claim you are denied equal benefits? If the veterans board of appeals has deemed this type of cancer as service connected to Agent Orange for Vietnam veterans why does it not apply to all veterans that are claiming that type of cancer ?

Response by SGT Jess Daniels made Oct 18 at 2021 7:55 PM

SGT Jess Daniels — Mon, 18 Oct 2021 19:55:26 -0400

Why doesn't the va disability board not listen to their own rules and regulations and what the persons doctor has documented?

Response by SGT Isidore Brown made Oct 18 at 2021 7:55 PM

SGT Isidore Brown — Mon, 18 Oct 2021 19:55:28 -0400

I been trying to get my service connection disability payments. Since 1988 why am I been denied so many times? When I clearly was injured in the line of duty. They keep showing peace time vet. Being Military Police you are never in peacetime.

Response by PO3 Cheyenne Ritenour made Oct 18 at 2021 7:59 PM

PO3 Cheyenne Ritenour — Mon, 18 Oct 2021 19:59:04 -0400

Is there any intention to turn VA Fort Worth Clinic into a hospital. There are more then enough patients in the Fort Worth and surrounding communities to support turning the clinic into a hospital. Just like what was done with Sacramento VA Mather clinic. The closest hospital was VA Hospital in Martinez. So the Converted VA Sacramento Mather.

Response by SPC Darrel Schott made Oct 18 at 2021 8:05 PM

SPC Darrel Schott — Mon, 18 Oct 2021 20:05:19 -0400

Like so many things with the wrong with the VA, this system will not work to let me ask a question. It just cycles back to the "Ask a question below" button.

Response by SPC Christopher Waine made Oct 18 at 2021 8:06 PM

SPC Christopher Waine — Mon, 18 Oct 2021 20:06:25 -0400

What is being done about the delay of authorization processing regarding the Care in the Community Program?

Why has congress taken the decision making ability away from primary care doctors and Community Care?

How is the current budget based Veteran healthcare system more beneficial for Veterans than need based healthcare?
system?

Last question.

Why is no one answering the phone at WRIISC in Paulo Alto?

Response by SPC James Holt made Oct 18 at 2021 8:06 PM

SPC James Holt — Mon, 18 Oct 2021 20:06:31 -0400

Why were the kiosks removed from the VA? We are back to standing in lines for check-ins and filling out travel pay.

Response by SN Jacqueline Truppner made Oct 18 at 2021 8:08 PM

SN Jacqueline Truppner — Mon, 18 Oct 2021 20:08:35 -0400

Why is that we have to fight to get our disability compensation? When we are suppose to get full medical and 100% disability rating upon discharge. I have been fighting for 5 years now and only at a 70%. Everything I have going on is service related but they reject the claims.

Response by SPC Darrel Schott made Oct 18 at 2021 8:11 PM

SPC Darrel Schott — Mon, 18 Oct 2021 20:11:28 -0400

Why is there so much delay to receive Covid shots? I asked my clinic for the Phizer booster and was told scheduling is out to December. CVS and Walgreen take a couple days.

Response by LTC Todd Scattini made Oct 18 at 2021 8:12 PM

LTC Todd Scattini — Mon, 18 Oct 2021 20:12:32 -0400

Mr. Secretary, The re-legalization of cannabis presents an immense opportunity for the VA and the Dept. of Defense to commit real vision and leadership at the very beginning of what must be recognized as a paradigm shift. Outside the walls of VA facilities, we are witnessing a revolution in medical affairs. We are witnessing veterans being healed and families being saved through access to medical cannabis, a safe, effective medicine we have been using for millennia. Veterans tell me EVERY DAY that cannabis has saved their life. More importantly, spouses and children tell me that cannabis has brought their spouse or parent back. As a leader, as a cavalryman, and as a human, these are SPOT REPORTs that I cannot ignore.

I was privileged to serve and lead soldiers in the U.S. Army for 27 years. I went to a military academy that was started by a hemp farmer, Thomas Jefferson. Leaders in the military have known since 1900 that cannabis is safer and more effective than opioids.

I have asked your predecessors how they plan to show leadership on the subject of cannabis. I rarely got back more than a 'pot pun' and regurgitated "Reefer Madness" that had no bearing in data or science.

I implore you to step up and take a forward leaning leadership role within the Federal government on this subject. If your is to find a way to save soldiers' lives, yet fail to explore how cannabis can contribute, you will be sorely derelict in your duty.

I would like to invite you and any other leaders to this conversation. I am hosting an event in Arlington, TX on 6NOV21 immediately following the Army-Air Force Game. Please register at the link on the attached flyer. I am inviting all leaders to help us start this conversation in a meaningful and purpose driven way. These endeavors could lead to increased survivability of soldiers in combat and the ability of our veterans and families to thrive after service without fear of overdose, addiction, or increased suicidal ideation.

Our veterans and our military are in an absolute healthcare crisis. We will all be judged by how we responded to the burnpit effects, opioid, and suicide crises in our ranks and veteran community. So far, I have been sadly disappointed in the VA's inability to embrace cannabis and shine its massive research lens on this opportunity. How can I and the rest of the veteran cannabis community be of assistance in helping you understand more about cannabis and our plan to save soldiers lives?

I can guarantee you, that if you are the guy that brings this to the table, you can tell CPT McDonald that your most fulfilling moment was when you were able to help veterans access cannabis. You should want this to be part of your legacy, because it is what a leader would do.

Please feel free to call, email, or visit me in Kansas City. I give one hell of a tour at Ft. Leavenworth, the National WWI Museum, the KCVA.

I stand patiently by to assist you equipped with an army of cannabis veterans who will join me at the Hemp For Victory event in Arlington, TX.
Thank you for your service to the nation.
Todd Scattini
TheHempColonel

Response by SN Garry Orender made Oct 18 at 2021 8:13 PM

SN Garry Orender — Mon, 18 Oct 2021 20:13:59 -0400

When do we join the rest of society and embrace medical marijuana?

Response by SSgt David Girard made Oct 18 at 2021 8:14 PM

SSgt David Girard — Mon, 18 Oct 2021 20:14:54 -0400

What is the status of legislation granting veterans who served in Thailand during the Vietnam War presumptive status of Agent Orange conditions similar to that granted to veterans of the Blue Water Navy? Veterans who served at bases in Thailand were in much closer proximity to A/O spraying than Navy Veterans serving many miles offshore yet these veterans must prove service or near the base perimeter when their quarters were often within 500 meters of the spray zones.

Response by LtCol Jerry Woodard made Oct 18 at 2021 8:15 PM

LtCol Jerry Woodard — Mon, 18 Oct 2021 20:15:35 -0400

Am retired and also I have 30% hearing loss...I do not take any money for the disability because it comes out of my retired pay.....can you explain why retirement and disability are tied together???

Response by PFC John Carlen Jr made Oct 18 at 2021 8:17 PM

PFC John Carlen Jr — Mon, 18 Oct 2021 20:17:09 -0400

Secretary McDonough, as a service connected veteran, who in the past has experienced periods of homeless. The VA motto is One VA. I have experienced homeless in 2 states. Why then does the Phoenix Carl Hayden VA medical center put hurdles in front of the benefits that I have earned. I moved to Boston and the Boston VA was ran so much better and didn't put hurdles in front of the Benefits I earned as a veteran. The Phoenix VA to me and a lot of other Veterans is letting us down tremendously. Thank You

Response by PFC John Carlen Jr made Oct 18 at 2021 8:19 PM

PFC John Carlen Jr — Mon, 18 Oct 2021 20:19:22 -0400

I truly believe that the problems the Phoenix VA 10 years ago have not been resolved. Can I ask for an investigation?Thank You

Response by CMSgt Keith Hennek made Oct 18 at 2021 8:23 PM

CMSgt Keith Hennek — Mon, 18 Oct 2021 20:23:18 -0400

Mr. Secretary - Thank you for taking the time to answer RallyPoint Veterans' questions. I am a retired Veteran with multiple disabilities. I realize the VA is a large organization with many challenges, however myself along with numerous other fellow veterans consistently have VA related disability appointments billed to our personal Insurance companies and have to contact the billing office whenever this occurs and have audits performed on our accounts to have the charges reversed. This not only causes an undue burden on the veteran, but also on your auditors who have to consistently research these accounts. Is there any way the VA can have their software systems updated to permanently flag the disabilities to the services being performed to prevent this from occurring in the future. It would be a great service to your veterans and auditors if you could make this a priority. Respectfully yours!

Response by PO3 George Williams made Oct 18 at 2021 8:24 PM

PO3 George Williams — Mon, 18 Oct 2021 20:24:50 -0400

Where does the VA stand on pursuing medical cannabis for service connected veterans battling PTSD, chronic pain, anxiety, etc?

Response by LCDR Patrick Gavin made Oct 18 at 2021 8:25 PM

LCDR Patrick Gavin — Mon, 18 Oct 2021 20:25:38 -0400

Hello Secretary McDonough:
I am a VA employee and an 80% SC disabled veteran of OEF. Due to sequelae of one of my SC injuries, whereby I am losing the feeling and motor control of my right hand, I was taken from my job as a primary care nurse practitioner and detailed to a non-clinical position. If I cannot find another job in 3 months, I can be fired for this disability. I have had many complications working with the reasonable accommodations coordinator who has been unable to place me in another position at mine or another Chicago area VA. I am a primary care nurse practitioner. This is one of the most in-demand positions not only in VA but in healthcare. I am asking for your help in finding another position. Thank you kindly, Sir, for your time, efforts, and consideration of this request.
Very respectfully yours,
Patrick Gavin RN, APRN-BC
Lieutenant Commander, Nurse Corps, USN (ret.)
CELL# [login to see]

Response by PO2 Scott Polsgrove made Oct 18 at 2021 8:31 PM

PO2 Scott Polsgrove — Mon, 18 Oct 2021 20:31:04 -0400

Mr. Secretary,
I am a veteran student who is 100% service connected. I used my GI Bill to earn my BA and now am using VR&E benefits to earn my MSW and MA in Addictions Studies. My question for you is about veterans with substance use disorders: Many veterans who unfortunately developed SUD's while enlisted left the service with OTH discharges. They are cut out of VA healthcare, housing assistance, and any other federal veteran programs. These same veterans are more likely to experience homelessness than veterans with honorable discharge status. SUD is not a choice individuals make. No one sets out to become a heroin addict. When are we going to stop criminalizing and penalizing people for having legitimate biopsychosocial disorders and start helping ALL veterans who are in need? Will you commit to advocating on their behalf? Or will you enforce the status quo and leave our shipmates behind? You have the power to enact change.

Response by SPC John Shell made Oct 18 at 2021 8:41 PM

SPC John Shell — Mon, 18 Oct 2021 20:41:06 -0400

Why isn't Monsanto taking responsibility for the negligence at Fort McClellan Alabama that resulted in massive chemical exposures. It left me sterile, not able to have a family and mentally and physically broken. How can this be allowed to happen?

Response by SSG Lloyd Pusey made Oct 18 at 2021 9:04 PM

SSG Lloyd Pusey — Mon, 18 Oct 2021 21:04:26 -0400

Why is VA healthcare travel reimbursement so delinquent in their payments. What are you doing to correct this?

Response by SSG Cynthia Koehn made Oct 18 at 2021 9:06 PM

SSG Cynthia Koehn — Mon, 18 Oct 2021 21:06:25 -0400

Mr. Secretary, thank you for your time.

What is the plan to continue telehealth for those of us in rural communities? It's 3 1/2 hours to the closest VA hospital from where I live, and we have a huge Veteran population.. While the CBOC and Community Care has helped, we are losing local providers. Telehealth has helped tremendously in bridging the gap with specialty care.

Thank you for your time Sir.

Response by A1C Riley Sanders made Oct 18 at 2021 9:09 PM

A1C Riley Sanders — Mon, 18 Oct 2021 21:09:40 -0400

" Sufficient" Evidence Linking Hypertension to Agent Orange Exposure has been determined,will you look into this ? seemingly has stalled. will you look into this
RP Member

Response by SPC Deborah S Brush made Oct 18 at 2021 9:10 PM

SPC Deborah S Brush — Mon, 18 Oct 2021 21:10:56 -0400

Who is there to protect the Veteran from the Doctor who lies and causes irreparable physical and mental harm to the veteran by performing unnecessary surgical procedures on the patient that the patient finds out about after the fact when it's too late to do anything about. It was all just a big lie and since I go to the Tampa VA, which is a "teaching" hospital I guess they all think this is acceptable behavior to treat patients like cadavers, well I'm not a cadaver!

Response by SPC Milton Trusty made Oct 18 at 2021 9:32 PM

SPC Milton Trusty — Mon, 18 Oct 2021 21:32:33 -0400

CAN I GET HELP WITH MY CASE THEY SAY L WAS INJURED BUT NO COMPENSATION

Response by SSgt Gary Baldridge made Oct 18 at 2021 9:33 PM

SSgt Gary Baldridge — Mon, 18 Oct 2021 21:33:24 -0400

Why do we have to wait sometimes up to a year to get an answer about our disability claims when appealed to a higher judge

Response by SP5 Philip Rapp made Oct 18 at 2021 9:33 PM

SP5 Philip Rapp — Mon, 18 Oct 2021 21:33:29 -0400

Secretary McDonough, I hope you and our congress know the wonderful job being done daily by the workers at Southeast Louisiana Veterans Health Care System. Primarily I go to the clinic at Hammond, LA or the Hospital in New Orleans, La and always find their attention to my needs exceptionally. I would gladly go before congress to tell them of the great job done by Mr. Rivera and his entire staff. Thank you, Philip P. Rapp

Response by MSgt Shawn McCabe made Oct 18 at 2021 9:33 PM

MSgt Shawn McCabe — Mon, 18 Oct 2021 21:33:41 -0400

Why is the VA making me take another sleep study? I’ve been using my cpap machine for over ten years. I was prescribed the device on active duty. I’ve used the VA health system since retiring in 2011. I was awarded a disability rating for sleep apnea.

Response by Cpl Jeff McQuade made Oct 18 at 2021 9:39 PM

Cpl Jeff McQuade — Mon, 18 Oct 2021 21:39:39 -0400

Why won't the Country , take care of the Veterans like they promised at induction ?

Response by Pvt SanJuana Méndez made Oct 18 at 2021 9:50 PM

Pvt SanJuana Méndez — Mon, 18 Oct 2021 21:50:41 -0400

President Trump claimed he'd kept campaign promise to compensate home care providers (more often than not, spouse) of veterans. V.A. magazine I read sometime 2017 indicated Secretary of Veteran Affairs (you?) heard the president make that promise in inaugural address.

I am veteran (USMC, 1971) who took care of her husband (Army, according to DD-214, 1974-76) thru several years of COPD (chronic obstructive pulmonary disease, diagnosed cirça 2004), & continued taking care of said spouse thru diagnoses (Apr., 2018; Mar., 2019) of, & treatment for small-cell lung cancer.

I have 2 concerns:
1. Why am I getting $13.91 monthly Survivor pension but, tho Veteran Affairs has compensated spousal burial expense & overpayment of my husband's pension/Aid & Attendance that caused joint bank account to be frozen, they claim Dept of Defense must account for (& have yet to do so) their involvement in seizing $505.61 that has yet to be reimbursed?

2. Cancer treatment (chemobrain) makes details somewhat difficult to remember but shortly after (probably 2018) my husband started getting veteran's pension, some other entity (might have been Social Security or Health & Human Services--aka, Food Stamps) required me to report any portion of said pension that was being sent to me. I seem to remember seeing something that indicated I was receiving--more or less--$11. What I do know is that either V.A. or Social Security sent me letter indicating "my" pension would be increased to $13.91, effective 1 Jan 2020. My question is, if pension "increased," why did it cease 1 Sept 2019--month my husband's pension was no longer supposed to be sent?

Response by MAJ Private RallyPoint Member made Oct 18 at 2021 9:53 PM

MAJ Private RallyPoint Member — Mon, 18 Oct 2021 21:53:02 -0400

When is VA replacing the CPAP machines recalled by the Philips company?

Response by SFC Theadore Caldwell made Oct 18 at 2021 9:54 PM

SFC Theadore Caldwell — Mon, 18 Oct 2021 21:54:11 -0400

I am a 100% disabled vet. I get travel pay for my multiple trips to the VA. For over a year now travel pay has been messed up. The travel clerks say that they are short handed and that it would help if we put our own online travel vouchers. I have been doing this since last summer. I have gone for months without pay and rarely will receive several payments but no way to track which claims are paid. Travel says it is so far behind because of short staffing. It is now apparent that even with additional staff the situation will not improve without major over hauling the system. Including making the claims traceable by the vet. How are you going to provide guidance for this problem

Response by SPC Al Comstock made Oct 18 at 2021 9:57 PM

SPC Al Comstock — Mon, 18 Oct 2021 21:57:06 -0400

Will the VA ever provide dental services for retired veterans?

Response by SGT Jody Everett Peterson made Oct 18 at 2021 10:01 PM

SGT Jody Everett Peterson — Mon, 18 Oct 2021 22:01:42 -0400

'Mr Secretary. My Mother was a WAC working on the Manhattan Project 1945 at Hanford WA.. She died of leukemia in 1964. I was, also, exposed to the same lethal dose (that killed my mother) of radiation as a fetus. I am (now) a veteran (1967 to 1973) and the VA told me years ago that I had been exposed. I have had many immune and emotional problems. The emotional problems clearly contributed to the loss of my 2nd marriage. Who is responsible for my unnecessary immune and nervous system damage and my Mothers' leukemia? That's a legitimate question. They KNEW women should not be exposed because a woman's eggs are for life and a male's sperm regenerates every 8 days. General Leslie Groves KNEW this fact in 1943 in Selafield England. He wrote a book that said "Now it can be Told". I don't think so...Thank you Sir. ( [login to see] / [login to see] )

Response by MSgt Roy Varney made Oct 18 at 2021 10:08 PM

MSgt Roy Varney — Mon, 18 Oct 2021 22:08:40 -0400

I am a 100% Disabled Veteran and have a couple questions/concerns.
1. When are the VA clinics and hospitals going to be fully operational? It takes too long to get an appointment, even waiting for referrals to see doctors/therapists outside the VA.
Luckily I have Medicare and Tricare for life, so I am able to get care and treatment much more quickly than waiting on the VA. However, for those not so lucky, it sucks to have too wait so long for care/treatment.
2. I live with chronic pain (service connected) and when I was living in Massachusetts, I was able to get acupuncture treatments from non-VA care and paid for by the VA; however, since I moved down here in Virginia, I haven't been able to get acupuncture. It was very effective in relieving my pain and bring my pain level down. Whereas, injections medications and physical therapy haven't been as effective. Why are there different rules for each VA VISN? I have done my do diligence and research showing that acupuncture treatment was approved by the previous VA Secretary.

Please make it easier and better for us veterans to get care and treatment. Also, please get all VA clinics/hospitals on the same page, so that treatment doesn't change or become more difficult when we go on vacation or move to a new VISN.

Thank you for response!

Response by SrA Joel Atkins made Oct 18 at 2021 10:11 PM

SrA Joel Atkins — Mon, 18 Oct 2021 22:11:52 -0400

Thank you, Mr. Secretary: I live overseas and have a blended family of stepchildren that make it not possible to relocate to the United States. In order to receive health care in Australia, I have to pay for expensive procedures 100% out of pocket ''If the disability is service-connected". If my treatment is an aggravating issue that is not connected I can not get help. If it is service-connected then I have to pay $17,000 AUD for a radio ablation for my back every year. I have to put $17,000 on my credit card and wait for a treasury check to be mailed to me to reimburse my credit card company. Can the VA do better than this?

Response by PO3 Janie DeLaney made Oct 18 at 2021 10:14 PM

PO3 Janie DeLaney — Mon, 18 Oct 2021 22:14:45 -0400

I have a question of my own. I was given an appointment for compensation and pension (C&P) over a decade after requesting one. Lo and behold, the Regional Office in Cleveland canceled my appointment and NO ONE has been held accountable! Had a hearing this year and Regional has yet again aide-tracked now stating they need/want more information. I want my C&P appointment. I wish they gave me this much trouble when I joined and fought for this country. Are they hoping I die (as they did with a young man who was finally awarded a rating, only to die 6 months later, after waiting 16 years)? Heaven help me!!! Frustrated and disappointed, but not EVER giving up! JD

Response by SPC Gerald Rogers Sr. made Oct 18 at 2021 10:17 PM

SPC Gerald Rogers Sr. — Mon, 18 Oct 2021 22:17:14 -0400

How do a Desert Storm get a 100% disability with out lost of limbs?.

Response by Sgt Clyde Dotson made Oct 18 at 2021 10:19 PM

Sgt Clyde Dotson — Mon, 18 Oct 2021 22:19:34 -0400

Why is the VA, at least in Los Angeles trying to make PTSD patients talk to Psychologists by phone instead of face to face through Care in the Community when they live over 50 miles from the closest facility with a Psychologist? Are we too much trouble, or don't you care how unpleasant we can get.

Response by PO3 Edgar Lister made Oct 18 at 2021 10:26 PM

PO3 Edgar Lister — Mon, 18 Oct 2021 22:26:03 -0400

With the recent death of Major Colin Powell, who was fully vaccinated, do you support the mandate for the Covid vaccine or would you allow personal choice. There has been no significant studies that supports the vaccine over natural immunity.

Response by PO1 Ronald Slay made Oct 18 at 2021 10:47 PM

PO1 Ronald Slay — Mon, 18 Oct 2021 22:47:24 -0400

What can you do to speed up the disability appeal I made back in 2013. It shouldn't take that long for a disabled veteran to get a decision.

Response by Cpl John Ferrari made Oct 18 at 2021 11:00 PM

Cpl John Ferrari — Mon, 18 Oct 2021 23:00:34 -0400

Sir, How do you plan to entice health care workers to work for the Veterans Administration to fill this major void that they have been experiencing for the past 4-5 years?

Response by PO3 Austin PremDas made Oct 18 at 2021 11:13 PM

PO3 Austin PremDas — Mon, 18 Oct 2021 23:13:07 -0400

How come the VA never returns phone calls for appointments for medical assistance?
Why can't veterans be at 100% especially the ones that deserve it?

Response by Sgt John Schumacher made Oct 18 at 2021 11:15 PM

Sgt John Schumacher — Mon, 18 Oct 2021 23:15:56 -0400

I am 75% disabled and been going to the VA since 1977. Suddenly the VA gives me just a bunch of lies but will not treat me for anything. Even water used for shots. I also worked retired from the VA. I am also treated terrible

Response by CPO Leopoldo Caniya made Oct 18 at 2021 11:26 PM

CPO Leopoldo Caniya — Mon, 18 Oct 2021 23:26:02 -0400

Why is it that veterans claiming disabilities represented by a lawyer have a high chance of getting claims approved than those that are just doing it on their own .

Response by CPT Gary Gracyas made Oct 18 at 2021 11:30 PM

CPT Gary Gracyas — Mon, 18 Oct 2021 23:30:02 -0400

Why is the VA not using Hyperbaric Chamber treatment to help those veterans who have suffered TBI, PTSD (in certain cases) and who have wounds that are not healing? The treatment has been shown to work for similar civilian cases for decades, and is being done for veterans at the Rocky Mountain Hyperbaric Treatment Clinic in Colorado for over a decade with amazing results. It would cure many veterans who could handle the treatment. It would help cure many of the Desert War veterans who have stopped taking the 'Black Drugs' given to them by the VA for their symptoms because of all the nasty side effects. I have spoken to too many young veterans who have done so.

Response by SFC David Beck made Oct 18 at 2021 11:33 PM

SFC David Beck — Mon, 18 Oct 2021 23:33:59 -0400

I was told by a DAV representative that if I attempted to increase my disability rating from 70% to a higher percentage that the VA could actually decrease my percentage instead. Is this true? I believe my disability has worsened but I don't want to have my percentage decreased.

Response by PFC Monica Perez made Oct 18 at 2021 11:46 PM

PFC Monica Perez — Mon, 18 Oct 2021 23:46:16 -0400

What is being done to lower the military budget and add to the veteran budget?

Response by CPO Cris Folk made Oct 18 at 2021 11:46 PM

CPO Cris Folk — Mon, 18 Oct 2021 23:46:43 -0400

Mr. Secretary,
My local VA Hospital here in Madison, WI provides us vets with the best care we've ever received. The William H. Middleton hospital and West Clinic staff are top notch and it shows with every appointment and interaction. My question is why can't the VA contract with an optical provider that can add anti scratch coating to our lenses? Surely it can't cost that much, in fact it would probably be more cost effective than having to remake glasses due to scratches the lenses accumulate within a month of wearing. ETC(SW) Christopher Folk

Response by SPC Eric Sorensen made Oct 19 at 2021 12:10 AM

SPC Eric Sorensen — Tue, 19 Oct 2021 00:10:39 -0400

The VA website proudly says it is an average of 142.8 days to get a disability decision. Is this number for first time claims? What is the current average days for disability decision Appeals cases, Board of Appeals cases? The decision on my case and appeal took 12.5 years. That is 4,562.5 days. My appeal of that decision is now 4 years old. That is another 1460 + days. I know I am not the only one waiting on a Board of Appeals case. When I went on the list there were over 136,000 cases ahead of me. Can the VA come out and acknowledge these numbers? I would like the VA Administration to quit hiding behind the 142.8 number. Can we get honest numbers for these Veterans who deserve more?

Response by SPC David Turner made Oct 19 at 2021 12:25 AM

SPC David Turner — Tue, 19 Oct 2021 00:25:07 -0400

Travel pay to/from appointments.
It's very detailed. Should be point A to B. But example: Travel pay to Primary care/labs/xrays are to closest VA facility to my home but I'm not part of that medical region. But going to my Eye/Urologist/Any Specialties Clinics I get compensated for the facility for the actual appointment Which is the same as my Primary/labs/xray...The handbook says to closest VA facilities for some appointments but to the actual location of Appointments for other Appointments. That puts a Burden on Veterans with limited income.

Response by SSgt David Moyer made Oct 19 at 2021 1:07 AM

SSgt David Moyer — Tue, 19 Oct 2021 01:07:39 -0400

Ssgt David Moyer,
Mister Secretary,
I was wondering if dental could be added as part of preventable care for our veterans, as standard care. As we all know our dental health can effect our overall health in so many ways. Just a thought , but it might really be cost effective in the long term. The VA. facility here in Chattanooga, is great, with dedicated and caring staff. I trust them completely.

Response by PFC Terence Gill made Oct 19 at 2021 1:16 AM

PFC Terence Gill — Tue, 19 Oct 2021 01:16:28 -0400

I would like to know if community care can go back to the way it was and we can call try west directly to get an appointment to see a dr. I live in a rural area and it is a burden to have to go to a clinic to get an approval to see a dr.

Response by SN Patrick Campbell made Oct 19 at 2021 3:22 AM

SN Patrick Campbell — Tue, 19 Oct 2021 03:22:08 -0400

Why is my agent orange &PTSD/depression claim stalled for two years? According to the local VSO rep archives are not released info to the VA in a timely matter. I have had bladder cancer & now renal failure. I’ve submitted letters from my VA doctors, psychiatrist & counselor. I also wrote to my congressman, Jarred Huffman.

Response by SN Kyle Catlin made Oct 19 at 2021 4:03 AM

SN Kyle Catlin — Tue, 19 Oct 2021 04:03:14 -0400

Only a few years ago 23 1/2 veterans committed suicide everyday, what has been actively done to reduce the numbers and has it worked?

Response by SGT Robert Pennell made Oct 19 at 2021 5:22 AM

SGT Robert Pennell — Tue, 19 Oct 2021 05:22:39 -0400

Can the standard VA disability rating change notice include a complete list of all the Veterans disabilities and their rating percentage? Identifying what is being included in the combined total ratings, and any disabilities that have been replaced or eliminated.
Veteran privacy is not an acceptable answer that this cannot be done.
Filing a freedom of information request was not successful for me. They would only release the requested information if I was dead.
Having every Veteran call EBENEFITS [login to see] requesting a complete list of their disabilities is probably not a good solution either. But it is information every veteran should have.

Why this is needed:
Situation: With my total hip replacement surgery on 2/5/2019, DC 5054 Hip Replacement replaced DC 5255 Femur Malunion. The standard one year 100% DC 5054 disability compensation was reduced to 80%. This is standard procedure, and I was notified only of the DC 5054 replacing DC 5255. My total combined disability did not change.
Problem: I was not informed that my 30% service-connected disability DC 5314, SCAR LEFT HIP WITH MUSCLE DAMAGE AND RETAINED FOREIGN BODY’ was eliminated back on 7/1/2019 six months after the DC 5054 Hip Replacement (prosthesis).
Displaying all my disabilities online through the EBENEFITS web site continues to show my DC 5314 effective 9/16/1971. It does not list a termination date. It does list DC 5255 replaced by S/P left hip.
In my case the surgery procedure for the metal hip prosthesis did not fix the AK47 gunshot wound muscle damage or remove shrapnel.

Solution: Whenever a rating is changed the standard rating notice should be enhanced to include a complete list of all the Veterans disabilities with their associated ratings.
If this was done, I would have immediately filed a claim to correct the clear and unmistakable error of the elimination of the DC 5314 muscle damage.
Because DC 5314 was removed, I was not able to file a Fully Developed Claim online to correct the problem. I had to mail in the documents. When they copied my VA Form 21-526EZ current disabilities list they made major typing errors as to eliminate the clear and concise descriptions

Response by SGT Thomas Whiteside made Oct 19 at 2021 5:45 AM

SGT Thomas Whiteside — Tue, 19 Oct 2021 05:45:47 -0400

This summer we received a new VA facility to serve our community. Yesterday, I had my yearly appointment to see my primary care doctor. There are no desks in any of the patient examination rooms. The doctors now have to stand with a laptop and a small rolling podium. This was a step backwards for them. I would like to see if somebody could look into this situation. All veterans would be better served by doctors who are properly equipped.
Very respectfully, Thomas Whiteside

Response by PO1 Dennis Mackie made Oct 19 at 2021 5:46 AM

PO1 Dennis Mackie — Tue, 19 Oct 2021 05:46:14 -0400

Jacksonville NC. I am unable to use the clinic because there are not enough Doctors for the amount of retirees. We are farmed out to civilians that could care less about our needs. What can you do about that?

Response by Cpl Paul Shanaman made Oct 19 at 2021 6:46 AM

Cpl Paul Shanaman — Tue, 19 Oct 2021 06:46:03 -0400

The VA Health Administration excels at a few things, i.e. Mental Health, Geriatrics, and Primary Care. It is also lacking in many other areas.

Is this because the VA is trying to be to broad in it's scope of care and services it offers, and should the VA just focus on the things listed above and outsource everything else to the private sector?

Response by Cpl Paul Shanaman made Oct 19 at 2021 6:46 AM

Cpl Paul Shanaman — Tue, 19 Oct 2021 06:46:29 -0400

Mostly all of the issues and difficulties plaguing the VA Healthcare system are rooted in the inability for each individual facility to effectively and efficiently remove problem and underperforming employees. This can be attributed too poorly negotiated union contracts with the 3 separate unions in the VA system as well as a very weak and ineffective Human Resources department.

Is it time to revisit and/or remove the unions from the VA system or renegotiate the agreements? What are you doing to remove the many roadblocks to removing problem staff ?

Response by Cpl Paul Shanaman made Oct 19 at 2021 6:46 AM

Cpl Paul Shanaman — Tue, 19 Oct 2021 06:46:56 -0400

All of the attention has been on the VA Healthcare System but virtually none on the benefits administration.

This is where access to care begins and is one of the most difficult and arduous processes to navigate. From the terrible way disability ratings are determined and added up to the generic Comp & Pen examinations where the doctors use a scripted form provided by the VA that in now way gets to the issue.

More than anything the low amount of compensation received by those with ratings. Approximately $3400 a month for a 100% rating with dependants. By no means enough to help support a family.

Is it time to look at the process in which disability claims are handled to improve efficiency and more so is it time to substantially raise compensation rates to allow for these veterans to live a more comfortable life after their sacrifice?

Response by Sgt Fredric Garms made Oct 19 at 2021 7:55 AM

Sgt Fredric Garms — Tue, 19 Oct 2021 07:55:13 -0400

Don’t fight wars that you know you’re gonna lose like AFGHANISTAN, VIETNAM. Send these dirt bag politicians there instead of our brave service members!

Response by PO1 Edwin Cooke made Oct 19 at 2021 8:07 AM

PO1 Edwin Cooke — Tue, 19 Oct 2021 08:07:16 -0400

Why, sir do we as Veterans must file and refile , supplemental and request higher level review claim and BVA Appeals etc, over a period years, to maybe one day at 30+ yrs like I did receive my 100% PT; for compensation, some of us are in our 70's by the time we reach this point. This system is and have been very flawed for over 80 years. It's co-dependent on a subjective decision from a VA reviewer and adjudicator ; when we have technology such as AI-Artificial Intel and ML- Machine Learning. This process would expedite the Veterans Claims Processing , from discharge with all the possible diagnosis codes based on the Service Members Medical and Service Record. This would be a jump start for the Reviewer and the Adjudicator, to begin from a impartial non-subjective position. And would assist with reducing the BVA and overall Compensation backlog. I have sent this Idea to your office the VA COS as well as the Under Sec of Compensation months ago. No Reply.... Please take this question and publicly answer it for us in the Veteran Community. We as Veteran should not be at our closing twlight years of life , before we get compensated for our service to our Country.

Thank you and Respectfully,

Edwin S. Cooke (1341) , US Navy 1977-1985 17 yrs old to 26 yrs old 2 / 4 yr tours of duty, USS John F Kennedy, CVA-67 and USS Nimitz CVN-68 (Norfolk,VA); VA-34 and VA-35 ; both Medium Attack Squadrons in VA Beach, VA NAS Oceana Master Jet Base.

100% PT S/C Disabled Veteran ( Over 30+ years in my quest with the VA departed service in 1985
1st filed year). Use my case as your peer review / analysis case study.

Response by Sgt William Graham made Oct 19 at 2021 8:11 AM

Sgt William Graham — Tue, 19 Oct 2021 08:11:22 -0400

Why does the VA allow LHI to take so long to reply to VA clarification inquiries? I’ve seen 4 month delays because LHI does not address inquiries with any urgency!

Response by Sgt William Graham made Oct 19 at 2021 8:18 AM

Sgt William Graham — Tue, 19 Oct 2021 08:18:37 -0400

I’m at El Paso VA and have to say, my Team is incredible Over these last years that I’ve had them. Due to a knee replacement surgery I am now a semi quadriplegic and they really go the extra mile to try to help me.

Response by SGT Evins Larry made Oct 19 at 2021 8:29 AM

SGT Evins Larry — Tue, 19 Oct 2021 08:29:41 -0400

I Would like to ask, Why durningy this pandemic did the Veterans office continue hearings on veterans only to cut the ratings down, and lower there checks
I find it totally unfair, because life is very hard right now.. for the veterans.I ww

Response by Sgt Rodney Fridley made Oct 19 at 2021 8:58 AM

Sgt Rodney Fridley — Tue, 19 Oct 2021 08:58:04 -0400

Why can we no longer use the kiosks at the CBOC and Dorn (Columbia SC) to submit our information for travel pay? The online system is extremely difficult to navigate. I have been waiting months for payment for several 200 mile round trips.

Response by LCDR Vidal Valentin made Oct 19 at 2021 9:09 AM

LCDR Vidal Valentin — Tue, 19 Oct 2021 09:09:52 -0400

Mr. Secretary, greetings from Forney, TX.
I served honorably in the Air National Guard in the 1990s. I received 36 months of education benefits under the Montgomery GI Bill.
In 1997 I received a commission in the U.S. Navy and honorably served 22 years. In 2018 the VA granted me only 12 months of education benefits under the Post 9/11 GI Bill. The VA cited that since I used 36 months under the old M. GI Bill, the VA would only grant me the balance of the total 48 months of alleged entitlement. But this is a totally different authorization.
So Airman Timmy or Private Tammy only need to serve 3 years on active duty, go home, and receive a full 48 months of benefits (up to $26,000 or more, plus BAH and books stipend), while I served 22 years active (TOTAL 29 YEARS) and I only get 12 months of benefits, being penalized for 36 months of RESERVE benefits (pennies on the dollar, no BAH, no stipend), under a different authorization.
How so, Mr. Secretary?
Thank you for taking my question.

Response by LCDR Vidal Valentin made Oct 19 at 2021 9:14 AM

LCDR Vidal Valentin — Tue, 19 Oct 2021 09:14:54 -0400

Mr. Secretary, greetings from Forney, TX.
I served honorably in the Air National Guard in the 1990s. I received 36 months of education benefits under the Montgomery GI Bill.

In 1997 I received a commission in the U.S. Navy and honorably served 22 years. In 2018 the VA granted me only 12 months of education benefits under the Post 9/11 GI Bill. The VA cited that since I used 36 months under the old M. GI Bill, the VA would only grant me the balance of the total 48 months of alleged entitlement. But this is a totally different authorization.

So Airman Timmy or Private Tammy only need to serve 3 years on active duty, go home, and receive a full 48 months of benefits (up to $26,000 or more, plus BAH and books stipend), while I served 22 years active (TOTAL 29 YEARS) and I only get 12 months of benefits, being penalized for 36 months of RESERVE benefits (pennies on the dollar, no BAH, no stipend), under a different authorization.

How so, Mr. Secretary?

I speak for all the veterans who are in the same or similar situation.

Thank you for taking my question.

Response by FN Steven Santucci made Oct 19 at 2021 9:23 AM

FN Steven Santucci — Tue, 19 Oct 2021 09:23:11 -0400

Secretary Denis McDonough, Thank you for giving me the opportunity to contacting you directly. I would like to bring up a medical point. I an a Vietnam Era Veteran. I volunteered to go to Nam but was never sent. I spent my time on a WWII Aircraft Carrier that was converted to Anti Submarine Warfare. We need Dental help. There are plenty of Veterans who can't afford Dental on the outside, I know I can't. There are no plans that allow us get reasonably proper dental care. Veterans can access Delta and Met Life but some Dentist don't accept Delta. Is it possible if we not a disabled Veteran, non Congressional Honor Vet or if we weren't POW, could we pay a small premium for dental to cover cost and get all our dental needs with no deductibles or copays??????? I tried talking to my Congressman Veteran affairs guy, emailed veterans groups but didn't get anywhere or any replies from them. Could you help us?????????? Thank you for your time. I would more than happy to help if needed.

Response by SFC Robert Walton made Oct 19 at 2021 9:29 AM

SFC Robert Walton — Tue, 19 Oct 2021 09:29:13 -0400

I would like to put in a good word for the Clinic i go to in Idaho Twin Falls Clinic is down right awesome with the staff and what they do. The Main in Boise is good as well, but it think the clinic in Twin Falls is better staff wise and heath care but the Boise VA Center has a greater volume of people to deal with.

Response by SPC Robert Dreewes made Oct 19 at 2021 9:32 AM

SPC Robert Dreewes — Tue, 19 Oct 2021 09:32:38 -0400

I have Parkinsonism. I have been rejected several times for a disability. A few months ago you announced that the VA now excepts Parkinsonism as a disability. We were told we had to do nothing and are claims would be reviewed and approved. When will this happen? Can we be told that our claims are under review?

Response by MSgt Leilani Mariotti made Oct 19 at 2021 9:51 AM

MSgt Leilani Mariotti — Tue, 19 Oct 2021 09:51:26 -0400

I as a disabled Vet rated at 40%, and retired from the Air Force after 20 years. I have not been able to obtain my full retirement and disability. What are you doing regarding getting the Concurrent Receipt passed?

Response by MAJ Debra Stuart made Oct 19 at 2021 9:54 AM

MAJ Debra Stuart — Tue, 19 Oct 2021 09:54:55 -0400

At one point the VA had 600,000 backlogs I myself tried to hurdle the tortuous process of denials and appeals Those with TBI , burns, etc cannot navigate such a complex system where rules change each region has their own rules files are lost and more Soldiers fall through the cracks cannot get care and sadly there are extremely high suicide rates. Each of us had a duty and accountability. Then too the Organization set up by the Government to help Veterans should be held to the highest standard . Saying “ We can’t handle the volume “ is unacceptable. I will never stop being a voice for those who cannot speak Maj Deb Stuart USAR ret Army Nurse Corp

Response by SPC Britt Monk made Oct 19 at 2021 10:21 AM

SPC Britt Monk — Tue, 19 Oct 2021 10:21:28 -0400

I'm a Viet Nam veteran and 75 yrs old. My sister is a retired RN and she insists that I get the quadrivalent flu shot rather than the flu shot offered by the VA. So I paid Walgren's 61.00 again this year.

Why does the VA not offer the high dose vaccine to those in the elderly age groups?

Response by CPO Ryan Desselles made Oct 19 at 2021 10:30 AM

CPO Ryan Desselles — Tue, 19 Oct 2021 10:30:09 -0400

My appeal has been on this hamster wheel since 2013. What is the VA doing to clear the back log and ensuring that veterans get a timely review of their case? Also the C&P exams are currently designed to go against the veterans claim since they are not real exams. I have had 2 and all they do is ask a few questions and write an opinion that is clearly in favor of the veteran. What is VA doing about getting real C&P exams from serious doctors?

Thanks, Ryan Desselles

Response by SrA Private RallyPoint Member made Oct 19 at 2021 10:30 AM

SrA Private RallyPoint Member — Tue, 19 Oct 2021 10:30:41 -0400

Mr. Secretary: Will you consider creating a VA pilot program that reverses the burden of proof from the veteran (who must prove eligibility when (s)he files a disability claim with the VA), to the VA that would grant a disability rating from the VA until the VA disproves the eligibility of the veteran?

Response by Capt Joe Luther made Oct 19 at 2021 10:36 AM

Capt Joe Luther — Tue, 19 Oct 2021 10:36:48 -0400

Sir,
The VA currently views alcohol dependence incurred on active duty as “willful misconduct”. When will the VA move beyond this non-scientific, archaic definition, and recognize alcohol dependence disorder for the deadly disease condition it is?
Thanks for this forum!
Sincerely,
Joe Luther
VA Addiction Therapist, retired

Response by SPC Lyle Montgomery made Oct 19 at 2021 10:46 AM

SPC Lyle Montgomery — Tue, 19 Oct 2021 10:46:23 -0400

I really don't have any major gripes about our VA in Omaha NE except the parking problem. The problem is that several nurses have quit because of Bidens unlawful vacine mandate. There are several good hospitals here and they would have no problem finding work. We have a good Governer here in Nebraska. Goc. Rickets anong with several other governors are fighting Bidens dictorial mandate.

Response by PO2 Troy Lockwood made Oct 19 at 2021 10:47 AM

PO2 Troy Lockwood — Tue, 19 Oct 2021 10:47:41 -0400

Is there anything in the two infrastructure packages before congress that will increase funding for veterans' programs? If so, what are they, and if not, why?

Response by TSgt Phillip Timmons made Oct 19 at 2021 11:31 AM

TSgt Phillip Timmons — Tue, 19 Oct 2021 11:31:58 -0400

Why did the VA recoup my severance pay before getting VA benefits?

Response by PO2 Richard Fitzpatrick made Oct 19 at 2021 11:38 AM

PO2 Richard Fitzpatrick — Tue, 19 Oct 2021 11:38:41 -0400

Mr. Secretary: Standard of Care has been Poor at Best and the Office of Accountability and Whistleblower Protection (OAWP) does not respond or acknowledge emails.
Employees at the VAMC's are very disrespectful to Veterans and do not think out of the box for verified benefits due to 100% Disabled Veterans.

Response by MAJ Guy Swanson made Oct 19 at 2021 11:38 AM

MAJ Guy Swanson — Tue, 19 Oct 2021 11:38:56 -0400

I have a valid Claim for chronic Sinusitis/Rhinusitis which I contracted in Kuwait/Iraq in 2006-2007, but continually gets denied. Why can't you take care of your Combat Veterans?

Guy T Swanson
MAJ, AV, US Army (Ret.)

Response by CPT Private RallyPoint Member made Oct 19 at 2021 11:58 AM

CPT Private RallyPoint Member — Tue, 19 Oct 2021 11:58:57 -0400

Mr. Secretary, I have been my 100% disabled,service-connected caregiver since 1996. My husband was shot in the head, so catastrophically wounded, I have struggled to raise our children, live basically Va check to check. And all I receive is information on how to better care for myself. I watch other veterans' caregivers who are not as disabled receive extra help/pay. And I consistently try to figure out how I could possibly have employment and still be able to care for my husband 24/7/365, it's impossible. I know that there is a plan to include me in Oct of 2022, but I also know that is all I hear --We will help you soon.... I have heard that for so many years and it feels that it is an empty promise

Response by SMSgt Karen Fisher made Oct 19 at 2021 12:03 PM

SMSgt Karen Fisher — Tue, 19 Oct 2021 12:03:23 -0400

I am currently seeing Community Care Neurology Doctor, and she has submitted PT order to my VA primary care doctor. I am being told that I must see my primary doctor first in order for the PT to be approved. If my Neurology Doctor deem it necessary for PT, why do I need to see my primary doctor in order for the PT to be approved? Getting appointments to see my primary doctor is not easy and fast. So in the mean time I have to suffer.

Response by CPO Bruce Metzler made Oct 19 at 2021 12:19 PM

CPO Bruce Metzler — Tue, 19 Oct 2021 12:19:42 -0400

I receive care at the Lovell Federal Health Care Center. It's SUPPOSED to be a joint VA and Military Health Care Center. BUT there are two different computer systems, two different formularies, etc. Will the VA and DOD ever completely integrate care at Lovell FHCC or elsewhere? It seems a great idea nationwide, but fails in the implementation. Basically now the VA and the DOD only share a roof.

Response by A1C Richard Manganiello made Oct 19 at 2021 12:20 PM

A1C Richard Manganiello — Tue, 19 Oct 2021 12:20:12 -0400

Difficulty with pharmacy ordering Rx's

Response by CPL Richard Murray made Oct 19 at 2021 12:26 PM

CPL Richard Murray — Tue, 19 Oct 2021 12:26:50 -0400

Under all the billions and billions in funding for relief during the pandemic, a lot of money was approved to help with housing, to include those who own their homes but are struggling with payments. However, no matter where I look, there is nothing to assist with mortgages! I have contacted many agencies, to include the VA and others groups who help Veterans to no avail. Everyone says they never got any of this money, though if and when I become homeless, they can help after 30 days! I don't want help then! And I know I am hardly alone! What happened to this money? There was supposed to be billions to help us!

Both my wife and myself are completely disabled. I would love to return to work if this were only possible. I suffer from a litany of problems, though my wife is worse off. After going through a heart attack, breast cancer, scarred lungs from radiation and four strokes, she needs constant care, and there is no one but myself to help her.

My mortgage is actually slightly more than half what average rents are so it makes no sense to tell me to move into a rental.

Response by MAJ Eric Allen made Oct 19 at 2021 12:30 PM

MAJ Eric Allen — Tue, 19 Oct 2021 12:30:00 -0400

How long should I expect to wait to be called for an appointment before I assume no one is showing up?

Response by AB Dee-Dee Schuyler made Oct 19 at 2021 12:37 PM

AB Dee-Dee Schuyler — Tue, 19 Oct 2021 12:37:54 -0400

Why do we get denied a travel reimbursement claim without notification of denial? By the time that we notice that the claim in not showing in the bank there is often not time to attempt to learn the cause of denial and then correct the issue. (I had 3-4 denied over the last month. 2 cancer appointments of which is to late to correct.)
We get notification of appointments, and of appointment changes...why not the denials of transportation?
(the VA Hospital is a 148 mile round trip for me.)
Dee-Dee Schuyler

Response by PO2 Robert Green made Oct 19 at 2021 12:41 PM

PO2 Robert Green — Tue, 19 Oct 2021 12:41:32 -0400

Why are my claims taking so long. Filed an appeal in April of 2021. Still no claim result.

Response by SGT Deborah Hoffman made Oct 19 at 2021 12:46 PM

SGT Deborah Hoffman — Tue, 19 Oct 2021 12:46:15 -0400

I would like to know why I have been homeless for over five years and no one will help me or my family. All I hear is “ you qualify for all services except housing “. How is that possible I am 80 percent disability. Please explain to me why this is. Why am I and my husband and son still homeless. I gave everything of me and all I got back was lies and excuses. My disability is so bad I see a doctor every week and have for over 5 years why won’t you help me?

Response by SCPO Larry Tucker made Oct 19 at 2021 12:52 PM

SCPO Larry Tucker — Tue, 19 Oct 2021 12:52:07 -0400

Why can't I go to my local hearing specialist to get my VA disability claim verified?
As it works now, the nearest VA contractor is 150 miles from my home. This is six hours driving, round trip, for me at 81 YO. This is not acceptable for me.

Response by SPC Michael O'Connell made Oct 19 at 2021 12:59 PM

SPC Michael O'Connell — Tue, 19 Oct 2021 12:59:51 -0400

Why is Community Care in Seattle canceling out veterans scheduling requests saying that the veteran said they no longer need the appointments? I have personally had this happen to me and I never told them I didn't need the appointment. And speaking with one of the medical departments in the Seattle Veterans administration Medical Center, I discovered that this is occurred to other veterans as well. It looks like Community Care is trying to boost their metrics or reduce their workload my fictitiously saying that veterans have canceled their requests. This sounds very much like the problem that certain VA medical centers had and trying to boost their numbers. Will you look into this?

Response by SP5 Patty Michael Newton made Oct 19 at 2021 1:52 PM

SP5 Patty Michael Newton — Tue, 19 Oct 2021 13:52:25 -0400

So difficult to apply for benefits put people
Through do many processes to obtain earned benefits many applicants simply stop trying military has all the records already for claims and the length of time it takes is so long when people are in need of assistance

Response by SGT Deborah Hoffman made Oct 19 at 2021 2:00 PM

SGT Deborah Hoffman — Tue, 19 Oct 2021 14:00:47 -0400

I would like to know why I have been homeless for over 5 years. Why can’t I get help. I gave this country all I am to the point I am 80 percent disabled but all I get told is “ you qualify for all services except housing “. I see a special doctor every week and have for 5 years and still I get no help. My husband and son never leave me but my country has failed me. My disability is very specialized but still no help. Stop pretending you care no one cares and I am living proof. There are many like me and we get no help. So my question is why do you lie to us veterans and leave us homeless?

Response by SCPO Jose Cintron made Oct 19 at 2021 2:07 PM

SCPO Jose Cintron — Tue, 19 Oct 2021 14:07:01 -0400

Me Secretary, I spent 6 months at the Traumatic Brain Injury facility at the Richmond VA Hospital. Great Hospital with excellent facilities and resources. My question: Will there be other new VA Hospitals built, or older ones renovated?
Regards,
Jose Cintron
SCPO USN (Ret)

Response by SMSgt Jojo Reantaso made Oct 19 at 2021 2:47 PM

SMSgt Jojo Reantaso — Tue, 19 Oct 2021 14:47:13 -0400

honorable sir. Will the VA ever consider time spent while service in the reserve or national guard components for credible disability ratings. seems unfair that only active duty service is considered when there is also health issues That may also arise when serving in the reserves or National Guard

Response by SSG Kimberly Ferrier made Oct 19 at 2021 3:09 PM

SSG Kimberly Ferrier — Tue, 19 Oct 2021 15:09:38 -0400

Secretary McDonough,
Are things moving forward with authorizations and contracts with Naturopathic doctors to serve Veterans in VA hospitals?
I was diagnosed with Celiac Disease a year and a half ago. It has some weird symptoms, joint pain, bowel issues, and many others. Celiac Disease is a genetic disorder (maybe not the right term?). Anyway, a light went on in my head that some of the symptoms I have had remind me of what I heard that my father suffered from. My father was a Viet Nam veteran. When he died he had neuromuscular issues (?) bad hips, digestive issues, could no longer walk. His death was a long and awful one. I just wonder how much better his life would have been if someone had looked at him as a whole person instead of as pieces and parts.

I have access to the internet with all kinds of information from Naturopathic doctors, Functional Medical Professionals and other Celiac suffers. When something bad happens like ingesting gluten, I can find out what to do. If I have awful joint pain, I can find out what I may have eaten that could have caused it rather than throwing pain relievers at it.

I have an issue with Yeast Overgrowth that is not an uncommon problem. I have done research and found out how to further change my diet to someday fix the problem. There is a system of tests that is common for Naturopaths to order that analyzes the bacteria in the gut to tell what kind of yeast is present and overgrowing as well as parasites and any other thing that may be causing problems.

When you have yeast issues at the VA, you get prescribed Vaginal yeast cream, or jock itch cream with the thought that the yeast problem happens right where the symptoms come from, rather than the digestive system.

If the VA in Portland had a Naturopath who could order a GI-Map test for me, we could see why my yeast overgrowth has not resolved and whether I have parasites from food poisoning that I suffered a few years ago, that might be causing continued Yeast problems.

I am going to pay for my own care to see a Naturopath to resolve my issues so that I can start feeling better.

I am impressed with the care I have received lately, and feel like support for them using a more wholistic and integrated approach could make care better and could make working at the VA a better more fulfilling place to work when you see people start feeling better.

Thank you for trying to make things better.

Response by Tammy Pile made Nov 4 at 2021 1:59 PM

Tammy Pile — Thu, 04 Nov 2021 13:59:11 -0400

Why does the quality of the prescriptions vary so much, and why is it so hard to get surgeries done in a timely fashion when needed. And why do we have so many foreign doctors why don't we have more American doctors that people can understand and relate to