VA benefit

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steve99f
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Joined: Mon Sep 16, 2013 9:49 pm
Location: Eastern PA

VA benefit

Post by steve99f »

Went to my first interview at the local VA clinic. A basic checkup and review of my chart and med history. On the way out the Dr offered the Shingrex vax as one of the benefits. So I received the first shot of the two shot program. Just a heads up if this is a concern.

I have to say I was impressed with the staff and the facility I visited. I shouldn't have waited this long to get acquainted with the VA.
steve99f
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Railsplitter
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Re: VA benefit

Post by Railsplitter »

Thanks for the advice. I'm starting to think about retirement and the VA medical benefits have been on my mind lately. I appreciate the feedback.
Rick T.

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BWT
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Joined: Sat Jul 08, 2017 1:59 pm
Location: Central Florida

Re: VA benefit

Post by BWT »

I can say that since August 1,2014 I have been using the VA. They have been great for and to me. I do have insurance and have to see a doctor twice a year in their network. That’s all I have to say about that :D
Bill
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Quick Steel
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Re: VA benefit

Post by Quick Steel »

In past years I had occasion to use the VA in two states. In each I found the medical staff excellent. The long history of complaints about the VA derives in my opinion from the clerical staff which was often less than competent. But a few years ago I understand the VA gained the right to dismiss employees. Perhaps this will have improved the performance of the clerical personnel.
eveled
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Re: VA benefit

Post by eveled »

It makes me happy to hear about great services at the VA. There were so many horror stories in the past.

Everyone who is eligible to use the VA, deserves the very best care available. Its the least a great full nation can do.

thank you all for your services, God bless you.
robpa
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Joined: Sat Mar 06, 2021 12:17 am
Location: N.W. PA.

Re: VA benefit

Post by robpa »

I have nothing but praise for the VA. I go to the Erie , pa and the county offices. I too should have entered the system years before I did. Vets actuall move here to be able to access the erie VMAC. Its superior. Only down side is the union lobbies for more work. its generally a cash cow for them, while they dont have the $$$s for other necessities like doctors and nurses.
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steve99f
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Location: Eastern PA

Re: VA benefit

Post by steve99f »

I would consider using a VA hospital but the closest one to me is over an hour away. I am fortunate in that I can afford Medicare and a Medigap plan. Push came to shove, I'd make the trip. Just don't need to.
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Mumbleypeg
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Re: VA benefit

Post by Mumbleypeg »

All of you veterans should at least get registered with and accepted into the VA system, whether you think you need it or not. My dad was a WWII Army combat veteran. He was wounded and as a result spent several months in Army hospitals recovering. After being discharged from the Army and getting a job he always said he had good insurance he could afford, and didn’t need VA medical care - let someone who did need it have his benefits.

That was great until the end when he was terminally ill, had used up his Medicare and supplemental benefits, and was going broke financially from medical bills and assisted living. I contacted the VA for him and was told they needed his discharge papers and other documents, I don’t recall what all. The VA said it would take several weeks to get him processed into the VA system. He didn’t have that long.

Lesson learned is if you’re eligible get enrolled whether you think you need the VA or not. None of us knows what the future may bring. Someday if you do need it, it may be too late.

Ken
Member AKTI, TSRA, NRA.

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jerryd6818
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Re: VA benefit

Post by jerryd6818 »

The VA now has a program they call "Community Care". It allows you to be seen & treated by local hospitals & health care professionals. I use it frequently & have yet to see a bill. Sure beats that hour & a half drive to Madison, WI. BTW there are distance stipulations.
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FRJ
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Location: Ct.

Re: VA benefit

Post by FRJ »

I use the V.A. in Newington, Ct. I have had a few issues with them in the past but in all the years I have been going there they have been a great place for health care.
I will add that , by the Grace of God, at 75 years, I have yet to have any health issues.

I agree with Ken, get enrolled, you wont regret it. ::nod::
Joe
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steve99f
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Location: Eastern PA

Re: VA benefit

Post by steve99f »

jerryd6818 wrote: Fri Jul 15, 2022 1:58 am The VA now has a program they call "Community Care". It allows you to be seen & treated by local hospitals & health care professionals. I use it frequently & have yet to see a bill. Sure beats that hour & a half drive to Madison, WI. BTW there are distance stipulations.
Thanks for that Jerry, I'll look into it.

What Ken said is true. Sign up, you won't be taking benefits from someone who needs them more. It doesn't work that way.
steve99f
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