Va And Mileage Allowance

[Chuck75]

I recently questioned why two mileage payments were short.

When all was said and done, the VAMC (in another city) is using the 5 digit zip code as input to some sort of computerized program, instead of mapquest or other "VA acceptable" mileage.

Naturally the 5 digit zip code covers a large area, and typically results in much less than the actual mileage.

I seem to remember that the mapquest mileage was considered acceptable by the VA.

"http://www.va.gov/healtheligibility/Library/FAQs/BeneTravelFAQ.asp#currentmileage

How do we determine mileage for reimbursement purposes?

VA has not established use of a single reference. Mileage can be determined using authoritative guidance such as Rand McNally or MapQuest; or zip code to zip code as determined at the local VA health care facility, whichever gives the greater benefit to the veteran."

Obviously a policy of shortchanging the veteran provides the "greater benefit to the veteran" in VA think!

Comments?

Edited December 19, 2011 by Chuck75

[Philip Rogers]

Chuck - that's true. They screw the veteran, everytime!!! Their excuse is "it's up to each medical center to make their own policy."

pr

[Chuck75]

Chuck - that's true. They screw the veteran, everytime!!! Their excuse is "it's up to each medical center to make their own policy."

pr

A quick check showed that the VA is using something that in this case mostly agrees with "as the crow flies", rather than anything near road mileage.

As the crow flies actually produced a distance of one mile more than the VA's figure. ??????

Again, the VA says (in writing no less) one thing, and does another!

http://www.va.gov/healtheligibility/Library/FAQs/BeneTravelFAQ.asp#currentmileage

[Philip Rogers]

At my White River Jct, VT, medical center they've been using the post office zip code. Many vets live beyond the Post Office and therefore lose money. I don't know if those closer to the VA, than from the PO, get actual mileage. Just another way to screw the vet.

pr

Edited December 19, 2011 by Philip Rogers

[jbasser]

I guess I am going to ask the VA to purchase me a Helicopter to travel as the crow flies.

Vets and veterans groups need this to go to court to straighten these crooks out.

Basser

[Flatbroke]

I think that if the VA medical Centers would use the zip plus four then it would narrow it down to the vets house from the Hospital.

That way vets that live on the "other side of the zip code" would get a fair shake on travel pay.

But then they would raise the first part deductions to cover that error.

Just my opinon, but as it was always said at Fort Wood "check your common sense at the gate" and pick it up on the way out.