Why is the communication from the VA pertaining to the status of disabilities so poor?

SFC Dr. Joseph Finck, BS, MA, DSS — Tue, 12 Jan 2016 08:42:01 -0500

I have had several claims processes through the VA and yet I amsurprised when the level of communication pertaining to what phase or when my claim will be resolved is inaccurate or more likely non-existent.

I understand the VA is overworked, especially pertaining to claims, but at least provide real world timely communication pertaining to claims status. This does not seem that hard, yet it is.

Has anyone else had this experience and has anyone found a way to obtain real information from the VA pertaining to the status of a claim?

Response by MAJ Rene De La Rosa made Jan 12 at 2016 9:21 AM

MAJ Rene De La Rosa — Tue, 12 Jan 2016 09:21:46 -0500

SFC Joseph Finck, the problem is the bureaucracy. There are too many people who are involved from start to finish. Much like the 2007 Walter Reed scandal or the in the recent Phoenix wait scandal, there are too many hands on deck. It should be streamlined much like the Army Warrior Transition Brigade, where there is a nurse case manager, command and control (C2), and the physician. When the case starts, there is one liaison. According to the above may, there are various layers involved, and that is onerous to the SM.

As long as there are people willing to help, such as the VFW or American Legion liaisons, then it WILL get better. Frankly, I go scared once I saw that flow map!

Response by SSG Audwin Scott made Jan 12 at 2016 9:43 AM

SSG Audwin Scott — Tue, 12 Jan 2016 09:43:20 -0500

You know how you use to get a ticket to get your haircut at the barbershop? Get a ticket and get in a long line of fellow veterans that are dealing with this same thing. Yes its horrible! To many folks are putting there hands on paperwork. I am so glad I kept a copy of my paperwork on one of my appeals, because when I went back to the VA they couldn't even find my paperwork. Now looking at this I now see why. SMH!

Response by SPC Rhonda Gulifield made Jan 12 at 2016 9:59 AM

SPC Rhonda Gulifield — Tue, 12 Jan 2016 09:59:47 -0500

I as a Veteran have experienced the same thing and yes it is frustrating. I avoid it by using Ebenefits the same vague status that Ebenefits gives me is the same vague information I receive when I call 800 number. My suggestion is to enlist the help of a service officer. They have direct access to your claim.

Response by LTC Stephen F. made Jan 12 at 2016 11:40 AM

LTC Stephen F. — Tue, 12 Jan 2016 11:40:16 -0500

SFC Dr. Joseph Finck, BS, MA, DSS thanks for posting this discussion. First I concur with SFC John Lovelady response.
I waited too long to contact VFW to assist me in submitting my disability packet to VBA. I started as I was separating.
[For any AC or RC service members] While the guidelines change it is best to start keeping copies of your medical records as soon as you can. If you see something wrong or missing it is good to question the medical records as soon as possible after see them so that they accurately record what happened, diagnosis, etc.
It is a good idea to contact one of the Veterans service Organizations (VSOs) like VFW, American Legion, DAV which are ready, willing, and able to assist service members and veterans submitting packets to VBA and will work with you throughout the process.

Response by SCPO Penny Douphinett made Jan 12 at 2016 10:18 PM

SCPO Penny Douphinett — Tue, 12 Jan 2016 22:18:34 -0500

When I was medically retired, I did submit my claim before I was out with the help of the DAV. I received my rating in September of that year, an 8 month wait. Given all that I had heard that seemed very quick to me. But, I handed a copy of my entire medical record, copies of all tests, xrays, notes from all my military and civilian hospital admissions, etc. so I did not have the additional wait time of the VA looking for additional material. When I went for Voc Rehab, I did the same thing with transcripts, the college catalog for where I wanted to go and a written plan of how I could attend school with my disabilities. I left that meeting knowing my entire education plan had been approved.

I don't tell you this to pat myself on the back, but as the example of what you need to do, if at all possible, before you get off active duty or before you submit your claim. The more information you provide, the better for your claim. No one else is as interested in getting your information to the VA as you are. Go to medical and ask them to make a copy of your record; if they won't, check it out and do it yourself. Did you get any care in the civilian world? Get those records collected to! The same for dental. Make a copy of your service record/jacket. Gather any educational records from your time in service.

The more complete your package is when submitted to the VA, the faster your rating will be returned. The same thing when you are appealing. Also, keep another copy of all those medical records for your Social Security Disability application!

Response by PFC David Ryba made Jan 13 at 2016 8:41 AM

PFC David Ryba — Wed, 13 Jan 2016 08:41:42 -0500

I guess I'm one on the lucky ones. My claim was grated within 6 months of application.

Response by SGM David Pompili made Jan 13 at 2016 1:28 PM

SGM David Pompili — Wed, 13 Jan 2016 13:28:26 -0500

Money drives the train... training and proficiency may also be the problem....