Colorado Veterans! Do You Have Health and Benefits Questions? Need Peer Support? Ask Questions Now!

2022-02-10T10:44:28-05:00

On March 3rd, 12-1 PM MT, VA and community experts will be here to answer your questions on benefits, claims, and peer-to-peer support services. Type your questions in now!

You can ask questions to the following people:
» Justin Monk - Director of Policy, Student Veterans of America
» Kate Hatten - Executive Director, Home Front Military Network
» Rebecca Smith - Coach, Public Contact Team, Denver VA Regional Office
» PO3 Tiffany Morgan - Director of Training and Peer Mentor, WarriorNOW
» 1SG Zelda Davis - Management Analyst, VA
» Melissa Comeau - Director, American Red Cross Military Veteran Caregiver Network
» SPC Dwight Amey - Legal Administrative Specialist, VA

Student Veterans of America:
Student Veterans of America is a Chapter-based organization with about 1,500 locations on college campuses nationwide. We represent about 750,000 student veterans and work on personal and professional development, leadership training, and advocacy at the federal level.

Home Front Military Network:
HFMN is a collaborative, working with nearly 50 service providers; we connect military service members, veterans and their families to essential resources, including financial assistance provided by HFMN and our partners, in order to meet the full range of needs of individual and families. Our programs include Navigation (Case Management); Financial Bridge Support; Information & Assistance; and Education & Outreach.

WarriorNOW:
WarriorNOW has designed and implemented a program that brings Structure, Camaraderie, and Purpose back into Veterans and their families lives, and we do this through peer-to-peer mentoring, recreational therapy, PTSD groups, pro-social events, and education on topics pertaining to mental health, addiction, and building healthy relationships. WarriorNOW has flipped the conventional treatment model 180 degrees to start with building protective factors and coping skills first through peer work, and then when the Veteran is ready, we start the individual clinical work.

Response by SGT Private RallyPoint Member made Feb 12 at 2022 3:31 PM

2022-02-12T15:31:09-05:00

Thanks for the post.

Response by Cpl Frank Lahtinen made Feb 16 at 2022 1:20 PM

2022-02-16T13:20:40-05:00

Have you heard about this new platform to support Rural veterans on Colorado?
Operation Veteran Strong https://www.operationveteranstrong.org/
DENVER, November 12, 2021 — Colorado is launching an online platform, Operation Veteran Strong, designed to connect veterans to the right national and local resources at the right time to increase self-awareness, build resilience, and prevent the development of mental health and well-being crises. Although veterans make up nearly 10% of the population, 17% of all suicides in Colorado are veterans, and the suicide rate among veterans is more than double the rate of non-veterans.
State Office of Suicide Prevention funding supported the build out of regional and statewide resources as well as additional resources in six priority counties in Colorado that are participating in the development and implementation of comprehensive suicide prevention efforts. The National Veterans Health Administration’s Office of Rural Health is funding an evaluation of the site as well as support to tailor portal assistance and dissemination within rural Colorado communities. Rural Veteran communities are an area of concern as they often have a higher rate of suicide.

YOU at Operation Veteran Strong

Find tips and tools for everything from your mental and physical health, to friendships and finding balance. It’s all here. Operation Veteran Strong

Response by SrA Private RallyPoint Member made Feb 17 at 2022 8:55 AM

2022-02-17T08:55:52-05:00

Thanks for taking the time to answer our questions!

I'm moving to Fort Collins in a few months. What's the best timing and process for notifying my current VA in Massachusetts so records are transferred and appointments can be made at the correct facility?

Also, are there any unique benefits given to Veterans in CO that I should be aware of?

Response by SSgt Patricia Perrault made Feb 17 at 2022 9:02 PM

2022-02-17T21:02:58-05:00

I'm a AIR FORCE Veteran. I was DX with cll leukemia JULY 2017. The base of assignment was MATHER AFB, CA. The base was strayed with chemicals. I have been rejected for serve connected disability. There are Veterans awarded 100% Service connected disability. The chemical veterans came in contacted is AGENT ORANGE. ARE VETERANS BEING AWARDED SERVICE CONNECTED DISABILITY FOR CLL LEUKEMIA?

Response by PO3 Byron Sutton made Mar 2 at 2022 9:07 PM

2022-03-02T21:07:24-05:00

I'm not sure who to direct my question to. I have asked for a representative to contact me. I spoke with Diane Ricci and she referred me to Brian Oney for an upcoming hearing on 4-25-22. I have left 4 messages with Mr. Oney to no avail. I also left some messages with Diane to help get me in contact with Mr. Oney. I am wondering if they are so busy, they don't have time to return a call. Maybe covid has them so backed up they need more employees, or the reorganizing that occurred last year left them shorthanded. Maybe I should have some patience. sorry, just feeling discounted or not relevant to them.

Response by SPC Ron Cooper made Mar 3 at 2022 9:48 AM

2022-03-03T09:48:20-05:00

This question is about medical supplies. On Jan 3 ordered supplies for my Bi-Pap machine. Three weeks later no supplies. Called I was told to order them again. February 1 no supplies called again they said to order them again. March 1st no supplies I was told they had switched companies and it would be about 6 to 8 weeks to get new supplies. I don't understand why it takes so long. I need my supplies. That will be 5 months without supplies.

Response by Justin Monk made Mar 3 at 2022 11:38 AM

2022-03-03T11:38:07-05:00

Glad to be here with you all today! I'm with Student Veterans of America, and I'm happy to answer any questions you may have about VA education benefits. If you'd prefer to reach out to me directly, my email is [login to see] . Looking forward to connecting with you!

Response by PO3 Jamie Tanner made Mar 3 at 2022 12:10 PM

2022-03-03T12:10:21-05:00

I would like to ask why the VA has cut the “CareGiver Support Program” by 1/3. My husband “was” my caregiver as a 100% SC veteran and now I have a debilitating and progressive neuro-muscular autoimmune disease.

I am considered a “Legacy Member” of the program meaning I’ve been in the program the longest along with so many others. Suddenly the program changed and qualifications changed. The VA cut me when I need this program the most.

I am not a money hungry person. But I have been on this program for 5 years. My husband was being paid 1,600 a month to care for me full time while maintaining a full time job and caring for 3 children.

Now we can’t pay our mortgage.

Sue e plain yourself VA.

Response by SPC Theresa Dvorak made Mar 3 at 2022 12:22 PM

2022-03-03T12:22:29-05:00

I have Veteran non-profit and offer Glass blowing as therapy. I am in Colorado Springs and would love to partner with VA to get more veterans involved.

Response by SP6 Bruce Kellar made Mar 3 at 2022 12:30 PM

2022-03-03T12:30:00-05:00

apparently once a veteran turns 70 the VA assumes their needs have stopped. No longer does the VA respond without being prompted more than once. The services once part of the system seem to be restricted. Is there a new system I am not aware of?

Response by Cpl Dwayne Arellano made Mar 3 at 2022 12:31 PM

2022-03-03T12:31:25-05:00

Why is it so difficult to get the VA to reverse a wrong decision? I was 100% P&T, and got that taken away by the person reviewing my case. They rated me wrong on radiating pain going down my leg from sciatica. They lowered that rating although according to the VA rating system I wasn't supposed to be lowered at all. It in fact took away my 100% P&T. I had to file for IU to get my 100% back. Lost all my benefits from being 100% P&T. I am now having to appeal to the board to get back my 100% P&T which has already been a year wait, and still waiting to hear when the board will review my case. Why isn't there a double check in the system to make sure veterans are indeed getting the correct rating for their disabilities?

Response by Cpl Don Hockhalter made Mar 3 at 2022 12:33 PM

2022-03-03T12:33:17-05:00

I have a standing appointment once a month at the VA in Cheyenne. L live in Red Feather Lakes Colorado. I file for round trip online BTSS . The amount I get reimbursed is always different. Same miles every time???

Response by SMSgt Steven Lee made Mar 3 at 2022 12:36 PM

2022-03-03T12:36:51-05:00

I am rated at 100% P&T. I also have Parkinsons rated at 30%. When my Parkinson's progresses, do I need to apply for a rating increase from 30% to be able to take advantage of VA support with home care, nursing support, small home renovations or adaptive vehicle support to accommodate my disability; or is my Parkinson's covered because I am 100% P&T? Thank you for your support!

Response by MSgt Kurt Heitman made Mar 3 at 2022 12:39 PM

2022-03-03T12:39:56-05:00

The tax exemption for 100% veterans was written in 2004. Housing prices have doubled and reduced this benefit exponentially. What is being done to bring this up to date?

Response by CAPT Private RallyPoint Member made Mar 3 at 2022 12:46 PM

2022-03-03T12:46:03-05:00

Anyone one now?

Response by SSgt Private RallyPoint Member made Mar 3 at 2022 12:48 PM

2022-03-03T12:48:20-05:00

I am currently enrolled in classes and have a question about BAH. It recently went up to adjust for the astronomical housing prices here, but did not see a change. It's been the same since last year. Does it take awhile for the VA to catch up with the adjustments? Or is this an error that I need to get fixed?

Response by Sgt Michael Gould made Mar 3 at 2022 1:02 PM

2022-03-03T13:02:48-05:00

I am an Air Force Vietnam veteran and have benefits. My friend in Pennsylvania, is an Air Force Vietnam veteran, but is not receiving appropriate benefits (Parkinsons, PTSD, shrapnel embedded in back) etc. because his records were classified, sent a navy VA center, and for whatever reasons. His wife has phoned the White House veterans line, contacted Pennsylvania US Senator(s), Congress persons, and VA agencies, etc., but he still doesn't receive appropriate financial, medical, home health care, and other benefits

Response by SP5 John Clark made Mar 3 at 2022 1:06 PM

2022-03-03T13:06:56-05:00

When will the new VA medical facility north of Loveland be up and running

Response by CW4 Private RallyPoint Member made Mar 3 at 2022 1:09 PM

2022-03-03T13:09:53-05:00

Do veterans get to enter their VA Member ID as a TSA precheck Known Traveler Number to get TSA Pre-check? Or is that just for active military members?

Response by SFC John Miller made Mar 3 at 2022 1:11 PM

2022-03-03T13:11:42-05:00

As a veteran I am interested in giving back. Many recent positions were open in the Colorado Springs area for VSR's. I applied and was denied because I simply didnt have experience in processing actual claims for others. I had previously emailed to VA directly with no response prior to the posting. How can I obtain training as it pertains to working with actual claims in order to put myself in a better position to serve our fellow veterans in the future?

Response by MAJ Percy Wolf made Mar 3 at 2022 1:26 PM

2022-03-03T13:26:17-05:00

My VA Primary provider doubled the dosage of my medicine without consulting me. I hadn't had a blood test in month's prior to his action. He was a little miffed when I questioned his decision. He reversed his decision. Anyone else having this problem?

Response by PO3 Tiffany Morgan made Mar 3 at 2022 1:33 PM

2022-03-03T13:33:19-05:00

Hey everyone, I'm Tiffany and I work with WarriorNOW where veterans are helping veterans through peer support. Looking for fellow veterans to connect with? Wanting to give back to your veteran community? Join WarriorNOW for our nightly Buddy Check at 1900 https://warriornow.org/buddy-check/
Check out our website for other events and supportive services we host for veterans and their families!

Buddy Check - WarriorNOW

JOIN THE BUDDY CHECKEvery Night. 7pm Mountain. On Zoom. Join the Buddy Check Our vision THE WARRIORNOW NIGHTLY BUDDY CHECK WAS STARTED IN SUPPORT OF A VETERAN STRUGGLING WITH MENTAL HEALTH CHALLENGES AND ADDICTION. THE ROOM WAS DEDICATED TO HIM AS A SPACE TO PROVIDE ACCOUNTABILITY FOR OUR VETERANS STRUGGLING WITH RELAPSE AND TO GIVE […]

Response by COL David Kiefer made Mar 3 at 2022 1:33 PM

2022-03-03T13:33:52-05:00

I submitted a claim in October. It is still pending. What is taking so long? Last exam was completed on November 3.

Response by PO2 Private RallyPoint Member made Mar 3 at 2022 1:47 PM

2022-03-03T13:47:39-05:00

Being in the Veteran CCN I have a doctor here in Eureka. How do I get me meds filled in the town drug store? I now have to send in info and a form to get reimbursed.

Response by SMSgt Felipe Toro made Mar 3 at 2022 1:47 PM

2022-03-03T13:47:58-05:00

Hi, I injured my back in 1999 while in AD. Injury was documented by AD Dr. as low back pain, drop foot, numbness in left leg, possibility nerve damage (no MRI was done). I got out of AD in 2003 (Joined the National Guard). I had low back pain since, but no treatment. In 2014, I had a relapse in my low back and my private Dr sent me for an MRI. MRI disclosed two bulging discs. I submitted a claim to the VA based on the MRI diagnosis and it was denied because the MRI diagnosis did not match my AD medical documentation. I retired from the National Guard, the back pain continued, and I am now getting treatment at the VA for my chronic low back pain. I would like to appeal; however, I am not sure if this is the most efficient way to go about it.

Response by CAPT Andrew Turnley made Mar 3 at 2022 1:48 PM

2022-03-03T13:48:22-05:00

I have a 10% GERD rating, but during recent treatment at the VAMC, they discovered several ulcers. Should I file for a rating adjustment? Andrew

Response by SFC John Miller made Mar 3 at 2022 1:50 PM

2022-03-03T13:50:05-05:00

i havent personally seen my PCM at the VA in over 1 1/2 years. A note was however sent while I was in Physical Therapy from Full Knee replacement about a year ago for consultation. Should I have anything to worry about?

Response by TSgt Matt Mitchel made Mar 3 at 2022 1:58 PM

2022-03-03T13:58:00-05:00

I recently applied for Post-911 Education Benefits for a Certification from an educational institution that is not “accredited.” But neither are “trade” schools - but nonetheless the VA provides benefits for them, and other “Certifications.” Ive used benefits before with the VA, and recently submitted the form to change my education institution. My Question is: If an institution is not “accredited,” and I’m applying with that institution for a Certification- would this make it more likely to be denied? If I am denied, do you know of an appeal process? I just want to prepare in advance for my rebuttal, as my intuition tells me they would deny it because the school is not a typical school, and not accredited.

Response by SrA Aaron Phillips made Mar 3 at 2022 2:02 PM

2022-03-03T14:02:31-05:00

Been having digestive issues since 2 years (6 years total service) into the military and 13 years after. Can I claim digestive issues? I've talked to many veterans who have the same issues compared to those at a similar age who didn't serve. I'm not sure how I'd even go about proving it.

Response by LT Jaime Jackson made Mar 3 at 2022 2:03 PM

2022-03-03T14:03:46-05:00

I am looking to see how I might be able to extend my Post 9/11 GI benefits in order to finish my last year in my Masters Program. I started in Fall 2019 and was scheduled to graduate May 2022. I had a family death in 2019 and multiple family crises thereafter. Due to covid in 2020 and family responsibility, I could not transfer earlier. It became clear that I needed to move in 2021 to attend to another family crisis in Denver and my master's program would not permit me to do my internship component from a different city until May 2022, thus moving my graduation until 2023. My benefits expired in Feb 2022. Please advise. It's only 7 credits remaining (which is the internship portion). I moved from Atlanta to Denver.

Response by SrA Aaron Phillips made Mar 3 at 2022 2:06 PM

2022-03-03T14:06:58-05:00

Hi,
I've been dealing with digestive issues 2 years during my enlistment until now, almost a total of 20 years. Is this something that I can claim? Speaking with other veterans compared to others who haven't served, it seems a lot of veterans have similar issues.

Response by 1SG Zelda Davis made Mar 3 at 2022 2:16 PM

2022-03-03T14:16:30-05:00

Good afternoon! My name is Zelda Davis with the Department of Veterans Affairs Veteran Employment Program Office. The VEPO provides employment readiness assistance and outreach to
transitioning service members, Veterans, and military spouses while advocating use of special hiring authorities, employment programs, and Veteran retention strategies to help VA become the employer of choice. Please visit our website @ VA for Vets @ http://www.vaforvets.va.gov to learn more about employment opportunities, career, job, resource and internship fairs to include training resources to assist you in finding employment and/or Writing your Federal Resume. We can be reached at [login to see]

VA for Vets: Your Gateway To VA Careers

VA for Vets

Response by SPC Theresa Dvorak made Mar 3 at 2022 2:24 PM

2022-03-03T14:24:09-05:00

When will we have a safe place to discuss alternative therapies such as psilocybin and cannabis? When I mean safe, I mean someone with knowledge and education on the subject. I am still being offered pills when I am not asking.

Response by Pvt Richard Berkholz made Mar 3 at 2022 2:24 PM

2022-03-03T14:24:17-05:00

I have been taking care of my husband for years with Alzheimer’s brought on by loss of hearing in the service. He has been getting monthly disability from the VA. When he passes I understand there will not be any compensation for me as his caretaker. Is this correct?

Response by SSgt Michael Scanlan made Mar 3 at 2022 2:50 PM

2022-03-03T14:50:10-05:00

Have had a 10% hearing disability for fifty years, it has become much worse and tinnitus has also gotten worse. Can I request a higher rating?

Response by SSgt Michael Scanlan made Mar 3 at 2022 2:52 PM

2022-03-03T14:52:53-05:00

Have 10% disability for hearing loss and tinnitus for last fifty years. Both are worse, can I get a higher rating?

Response by SPC Theresa Dvorak made Mar 3 at 2022 2:53 PM

2022-03-03T14:53:19-05:00

I would like more information on clothing allowance. I have a skin condition that requires ointment that eats my clothing.

Response by Carolyn Wagner made Mar 3 at 2022 2:54 PM

2022-03-03T14:54:56-05:00

Will VA disability benefits be affected for those who volunteer to join the Ukrainian Defense Legion?

Response by PO3 Kathleen Walton made Mar 3 at 2022 2:58 PM

2022-03-03T14:58:46-05:00

I live too far from the nearest VA hospital. Recently I had a head cold. I couldn’t get in to see my VA primary because he was booked through March. No VA approved urgent care up here. Not going to emergency room. Advice?

Response by PO2 Steve A made Mar 3 at 2022 3:02 PM

2022-03-03T15:02:49-05:00

Can someone reach out to me about why legitimate claims keep getting denied? Mine is a straight forward case and keeps getting denied and I hope it’s not for the reason I think it is.

Response by CPL Kevin Burns made Mar 3 at 2022 3:08 PM

2022-03-03T15:08:09-05:00

Why Do VA Doctors get cash bonuses for not prescribing opiates and benzodiazepines.

Response by Sgt Greg Hooks made Mar 3 at 2022 3:15 PM

2022-03-03T15:15:47-05:00

If I have a veterans ID card does that mean I am automatically covered medically if needed?

Response by Andi Martinez made Mar 3 at 2022 3:30 PM

2022-03-03T15:30:42-05:00

From Tuesday, March 15th to Thursday, March 17th, from 10AM – 3PM Mountain Time, you may schedule an appointment to work directly with an accredited Veteran Service Officer (VSO) to discuss all your needs. This appointment will occur over the telephone. Register today! https://book.appointment-plus.com/ck3047g2/#/

%23

Response by SGT John Stiles made Mar 3 at 2022 3:57 PM

2022-03-03T15:57:51-05:00

I have a question, Dec 2018 I was hospitalized because I had heart failure, then Jan 2019 I had my aortic valve replaced using a TAVR. At that time my teeth were in bad shape and they decided to pull them all to avoid future infections. Keeping in mind that I had heart surgery, I would need to adopt a healthier lifestyle to keep good heart health. The VA pulled out my teeth and then the surgery, then after I recovered they sent me home. Not having any teeth, it has been a challenge keeping a healthy lifestyle with my diet. Thus putting my heart health in jeopardy. Pre surgery I weighed approximately 150lbs, after I got home I fell to a weight of 118lbs, I am now currently at 130 lbs, but what I’m eating is not the healthiest. I’m wondering if I could get an explanation of why the VA health system will not assist me with dentures so I can at the very least chew my food properly.

Response by MSgt Kurt Heitman made Mar 3 at 2022 4:04 PM

2022-03-03T16:04:29-05:00

This is useless. I thought these people were going to be active advocates . Just responding with lame answers that we already know about.

Response by SMA Chuck L. made Mar 3 at 2022 9:02 PM

2022-03-03T21:02:59-05:00

I want to a ortho appoint with the VA on 9 February, they said they would refer me to Civilian service to help with my problems but nothing has happened, it's been a month. What should I do?

Response by SMA Chuck L. made Mar 3 at 2022 9:06 PM

2022-03-03T21:06:38-05:00

I went to an appointment the VA set up for me for an eye exam and to get VA approved glasses on 11 February 2022, I had the appointment and haven't received my glasses and now it March, how long does it take???

Response by SMA Chuck L. made Mar 3 at 2022 9:11 PM

2022-03-03T21:11:31-05:00

I had an appointment with VA Ortho in the Springs, they said they would refer me out to civilian service but have not heard from the VA since my appointment on 9 February 2022, it's March now, just wondering how long does it take to let you know something and what's happing? Thank you

Response by MSG Tim Bargy made Mar 6 at 2022 1:22 AM

2022-03-06T01:22:43-05:00

What do some Veterans receive disibility for Tinitas and some others don't? Are there "magic" words or phrases to use, so you do receive disibility? I'm a 20 year retired Veteran, that was in Armor, Artillery, and Infrantry units; and now my ears have Tinatas, and the noise is 24/7.