Using A Cvillian Surgeon Over Va Surgeon

[oldman273]

Hello not sure if this is right area to post but can anyone tell me if my SC back operation has to be done by VA? I am looking at back surgery been all over the place found a good surgeon clsoe to home with experience (which is very important LOL) that I want to do recomended surgery. VA wanted to do my back in Charleston but it is like a 3 hour drive from home. Driving now kils me and that far after surgery is hurting me just thinking about it. It is going to be a solo trip for me as my family is not able to go down and stay that long reason to try and do it here. I will have to get someone to come and drive me home from Charleston biggest reason is better on family here. Any Advice? I have been waiting to do surgery for 5 months for VA but nothing happen overnight with VA. I had thought I could wait my back out to see if it eased off I am ready to try surgery just way too much pain every stinking day. Civ surgeon said he could do it within two weeks. Adios this is 3 disc replacment with fushion and hardware. thanks for any all advice...

[carlie]

Perhaps you could put in a request for this to be done under Fee Basis.

carlie

[hedgey]

Carlie, how do you put in such a request? Is there a special form?

Oldman, good luck, I hope all goes well!

[carlie]

Carlie, how do you put in such a request? Is there a special form?

hedgey,

Try the Hadit search feature for Fee Basis.

carlie

[Pete53]

If it was me I would use the Doc with experience. I really don't want some snot nosed intern learning how to cut on me.

[Sandy]

My knees are 80% SC and I recently had bilateral knee replacement surgery done by a civilian doctor of my choice. I sent in my information to the VA and requested the temporary rating of 100% for 13 months due to the surgery. I had to sign a release of information for copies of the hospital stay, doctors notes and physical therapy. But I got the temporary increase with no questions.

I DID NOT inform the VA I was using a civilian doctor.

[Pete53]

Sandy:

Thanks hope that all went well.