Had It!

[scythis]

The unprofessionalism, rudeness, and wait times at my VA are too much! I am 70 sc and paid at 100.

What do I look for when I look for a civ doctor? I've never done this before...

1. How do I know if it's expensive when looking?

2. How much will the VA cover?

3. What forms do I need, or who should/can I talk to within the VA about getting outside care?

I would really appreciate any help, even if it's a link. I have had issues with EVERY SiNGLE provider here and even the patient advocate is inaccessible or on 'vacation'

Thanks Much, Scy

[Pete53]

For me I have a Medicare HMO (Secure Horizons ) so I checked out a few Docs near me and got Lucky I just told the Doc that basically I was treated at VA but I wanted him for second opinion and if I needed an operation. He agreed and we have been together for over 4 years. I was lucky but the thing is if you don't care for a Doc try someone else is my philosophy

[john999]

Right! I get orthopedic care outside the VA. I get podiatric care outside the VA. I get PT outside the VA. I get psychiatric care inside and outside the VA. I did hear that someone I know got very good care at the VA for a very serious condition. If I have misjudged the VAMC system I would love to be surprised. I just want better physical access.

[Chuck75]

I fully understand your frustration and anger at the situation!

You obviously will need to do something concerning outside medical care. Unfortunately, the VA is very unlikely to be willing to pay for such care.

I don't know anything about possible alternatives, such as Medicare, etc. that might be available to you.

What I would consider - -

Prepare a single page "Form" in letter format

Usual headers etc.

The form basically says that you asked for medical care for ________ on ________ at VA facility _________.

_________ (Name, Title, an employee, member of medical staff, etc. of the facility informed you that medical care was not available.

Reason Care was not available if known______________

VA representative or "Gate Keeper"refuses to initial, acknowledge, or properly identify position and authority Yes/No

VA Facility Date Stamp (If available)

Using such a form generally causes polarization, and may not win any friends, to say the least.

On the other hand, it does generate something that can be used in an effort to get the VA to pay for outside medical services.

The unprofessionalism, rudeness, and wait times at my VA are too much! I am 70 sc and paid at 100.

What do I look for when I look for a civ doctor? I've never done this before...

1. How do I know if it's expensive when looking?

2. How much will the VA cover?

3. What forms do I need, or who should/can I talk to within the VA about getting outside care?

I would really appreciate any help, even if it's a link. I have had issues with EVERY SiNGLE provider here and even the patient advocate is inaccessible or on 'vacation'

Thanks Much, Scy

[hedgey]

To the best of my knowledge, the VA won't cover any outside care unless it's pre-approved or a life or death emergency. Getting approval for non-VA care for any service they provide is proving impossible for me. I wish you the best of luck!

I'm not happy with my VA care, except for my MSW therapist. The rest of them are overworked and rushed, or just don't care.

[john999]

You may be able to get Fee Base but I have heard that it is not all that great.