Why do I need to set aside 2-4 hours if I want to contact my VA clinic or my local VA hospital?

PO3 Willard Newman — Thu, 27 Oct 2022 15:10:32 -0400

Even then I often do not reach anyone, nor can I leave a message. For over a year I have been told that the delay is due to "we are experiencing a greater than normal number of calls." What is the basis for normal? 1995?

Response by SSgt Christophe Murphy made Oct 27 at 2022 3:18 PM

SSgt Christophe Murphy — Thu, 27 Oct 2022 15:18:46 -0400

What are you trying to get done? Have you sent the office you are contacting an email through the secure messaging system on the Health EVET system? I use it most of the time and they will respond back or call me directly. Saves time instead of calling in

Response by COL Randall C. made Oct 27 at 2022 3:26 PM

COL Randall C. — Thu, 27 Oct 2022 15:26:57 -0400

I assume this is just you venting (understandable) and not expecting a real answer.

However, when I talk with the VA I have a lot more success using VA messaging and sending a message to my primary care provider (his nurse reads it and usually calls me back anywhere from a few minutes to a few hours later).

Response by LTC Private RallyPoint Member made Oct 27 at 2022 3:30 PM

LTC Private RallyPoint Member — Thu, 27 Oct 2022 15:30:34 -0400

Simple, because you don't have the choice to be covered by the VA at an open market provider. If the VA had to complete for your business, they would.

Response by SGT Private RallyPoint Member made Oct 28 at 2022 9:02 AM

SGT Private RallyPoint Member — Fri, 28 Oct 2022 09:02:04 -0400

Simply because you are not the only patient they see

Response by Lt Col Jim Coe made Oct 28 at 2022 10:50 AM

Lt Col Jim Coe — Fri, 28 Oct 2022 10:50:31 -0400

Agree with those in this string that recommend some type of messaging. My daughter works for VA. They are short employees at her location I’m not surprised to hear they may take a long time to answer the phone. The communication principle here is messaging is content sensitive, not time sensitive. The receiver can read and act on a message based on their schedule. A phone call is time sensitive requiring the receiver to act on your schedule. Messaging works better when the receiver is very busy.

Response by SPC James Neidig made Oct 30 at 2022 1:59 AM

SPC James Neidig — Sun, 30 Oct 2022 01:59:10 -0400

I Have Never Had A Problem Contacting The VAMC Martinsburg To Get An Appointment,
If I Need To Contact Any Of My Doctors Directly I Use “ My Healthy Vet “ Usually If It’s Mon-Fri
8-4:30 I Get A Response Within An Hour Either By Email Or A Phone Call

Response by CSM Darieus ZaGara made Oct 30 at 2022 6:50 AM

CSM Darieus ZaGara — Sun, 30 Oct 2022 06:50:10 -0400

If you are having that much trouble I would report it to the pre t Hospital in your region. Also, why not just drive to the clinic if it is that important.