Posted on May 9, 2020
Can the VA refuse to treat a 100% service-connected veteran citing their case as "too complex," and also refuse to outsource them for care?
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I have a pretty 'complicated' medical case but the VA continues to refuse at times to even consult with me despite internal VA referrals for the consults. They also refuse to refer me to anyone who possibly CAN help-- or the Mission Act options don't have any providers for the care needed within hours of me. Then they refuse to cover many of the meds that outside specialists suggest, costing me >$3,000 per year out-of-pocket. Is this OK at any level and would anyone have any suggestions for how to get the needed care? This way preceeded COVID-19 issues but continues despite it. I've been told the doctors won't even agree to a telehealth or video health consult at the VA across a few departments and programs. I'd already involved a senator's office a few years back and have made almost no progress. Help, please?
Posted in these groups: 
Department of Veterans Affairs (VA)
Washington
Veteran Benefits Advisor
Team Veteran Foundation
My Veteran Community
Department of Veterans Affairs (VA) Washington Veteran Benefits Advisor Team Veteran Foundation My Veteran Community
Posted >1 y ago
Responses: 433
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Get a VSO from your local veterans organizations. I recommend the DAV. They have helped with my getting 100%. They know their stuff and use a fully formed application process (it’s called something else but I can’t remember).; it saves time and has fewer kickbacks from the VA.
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Lisa, the answers are YES, they can refuse to treat you; NO, they have to refer you. NOW, the real answer. Since, [from your bio] you leave close to DC, I'd tell you to make a call to 1600 Pennsylvania Ave [but you may be arrested]; SO develop a package of your issues with the VA, BUT start with your medical discharge, disability or retirement to present day and include cancelled appointments, failure to refer you to a medical facility or specialist which can help you. NEXT, call your Congressional Representative and make an appointment. [Chances are you will not see your Representative; however, you will see the military advisor to the Representative]. Present the package to them. You should hear something back in 2-3 weeks. PS: make copies and don't send the originals. Good Luck.
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I realize the original question was over a year ago; but I'd like to find out if the AF SSgt's problems were favorably resolved. I know that in SOME cases, the VA has labeled Veterans who complain, or push hard to have their cases taken care of, as being troublesome or even "dangerous," so that their lack of concern and compliance has an excuse.
Someone suggested working through the DVA - probably the best route. Wrting a omplain to a Congressman would probably result in more stonewalling.
Someone suggested working through the DVA - probably the best route. Wrting a omplain to a Congressman would probably result in more stonewalling.
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I've been having fights with VA since 83. They seem to be able to do whatever they want to do. Get a lawyer, a Senator works for the Feds so they are little help unless they are running for re-election. There are several Lawyers who advertise to help Vets for free.
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We have a local news affiliate that does reporting and investigating reports on such matters. Seems that usually within weeks, there is ALWAYS a positive outcome and the problem is rectified. I would say look into it and see; it certainly can’t hurt, and with as much time as you’ve already spent on this, you wouldn’t be wasting your time.
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Contact both your US Senators, and your entire Congressional delegation. I guarantee you the VA will have a different outlook.
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I had an issue with the VA when Barack Obama was still in office. And went online and found out the contact information for the White House and sent an email to them. They jumped on it so fast. First it went to my congressman and within a short time the VA was calling me asking me to come in. It was so much better than the VA White House line. But as said before it never reached POTUS but it definitely got results. The VA does not like to be confronted by a congressman or anyone from the White House staff. You should try that. This is where you contact him online. whitehouse.gov/contact/
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Went to VA neurosurgeon with synovial cyst pushing on my spinal cord. She told me it was just leg cramps . The MRI showed a cyst and disc bulges multiple levels impinging on spinal cord. Went back to my PCP he went ballistic. He referred me for Community Care. Have you gone through the system meds, physical therapy, pain clinic.
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