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?

I personally have gotten great care from the VA for which I am blessed.
But, that being said, it’s sad to hear and see some of the ongoing issues veterans who raised their right hand in service to this country. I thought all of these problems had been mostly resolved after that debacle at the Phoenix VA some years ago. There is a term used in the second season episode 2 of Seal Team. “Medicate and Isolate”. Disturbing there are some of these practices still going on for our veterans in need.
My opinion is our policy makers put more emphasis on caring for the humanity of other countries before taking care of our own, veteran or not. Also, there is a music video by Five Finger Death Punch. “On “The Wrong Side Of Heaven”. It’s about the plight of our homeless veterans. This video brought tears to my eyes when I watched it. Also the DAV is a great resource for veterans in need.
That being said, I believe most policy makers are on our side.

I went through a similar situation. My wife emailed Trump on Sunday at about 1700 on Monday at 1100 the VA Directors office called me in a minor panic wanting to know what they could do to fix it. They approved and sent my referral out that same day. My issue was for my trashed neck. The va sat on my case over a year and said they couldn't do anything for me. I ask for consults outside the va for over a year. I don't know if it will have the same effect under the current administration. Don't vote for that senator again and encourage other as well. They have the power to help but typically lake the desire. Remember also all networks are not the same.

the other answers are nuts. v a operates on form and evidence. period.

VA form 20-0966. in section vl put in denial of medical treatment, fill in all pertinate info on this form. section lll check box veterans health administration. with that done (simple statement of "denial of medical treatment") Then get v a form "statement in support of claim. fill in all applicable and add extra sheets, as it says, for you EVIDENCE that you need AND are denied treatment

I agree with SPC Zacke, escalate through the political chain. I had a complex education benefits situation my congressional office cleared right up. Now I'm a believer. Not sure I would escalate to the top right away, but not sure I wouldn't. Kind of depends on who the senator was. I suspect they just didn't follow through, so if they've changed try the new one, and you have a congress-person too. You should cc your VA too, without all the supporting documentation. The prospect of an inquiry alone might be enough, and would expedite. I'd be cautious of the "press" except as a last resort...they don't get the respect they used to and might make you more enemies in the system than you need.

There is just way too much bad advice in these comments, to comment on. So, as a Tier 1 Vet (100%), your healthcare is 100% the VA's responsibility, regardless if it's P&T/Unemployability/ Service connected or not service connected.

The only advice I've see in the comments that was kind of right, talking with Patient Advocates at your local VA hospital. However, if you have already been fighting this issue, just go straight to the hotline. None of them give a shit about Congressionals anymore, but they do care about getting fired.

Here...you can find the number on this page that will make shit happen. https://www.va.gov/ve/whvaHotline.asp

P.S. - Who writes letters anymore? If you do, do you honestly believe anyone reads that sooner? Or with any greater consideration?

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.

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.

Biden will help.

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.