Hi everyone, Bob McDonald here, 8th Secretary of Veterans Affairs. I'll be by on July 25th for a Live Q&A. What questions do you have for me?

2017-07-18T13:04:30-04:00

*The RP Team will be monitoring this discussion*

From RP Staff:

We’re honored to host the 8th Secretary of Veterans Affairs, CPT Bob McDonald for a live Q&A on 7/25. Secretary McDonald graduated from West Point and served with the 82nd Airborne at Fort Bragg, pursued an ambitious business career ultimately leading Procter & Gamble (#36 on the Fortune 500), then was nominated by President Obama to take over the VA.

Please take advantage of this opportunity to communicate with a military veteran and business leader whose made change at the VA his focus since 2014.

About Secretary McDonald:

Robert A. McDonald was the eighth Secretary of Veterans Affairs (VA) and Chairman, President, and Chief Executive Officer of Procter & Gamble (P&G).

In 2014 as VA Secretary, McDonald launched VA’s ambitious transformational journey to be the No. 1 customer service agency in federal government. The Harvard Business School’s November 2016 study of VA’s transformation judged that, thanks to Secretary McDonald’s leadership, VA “had made impressive progress.” By the end of his tenure in January 2017, all VA Medical Centers were providing Veterans access to same day services in primary and mental health care when needed right away.

At P&G, McDonald significantly recalibrated the company’s product portfolio and expanded its marketing footprint, adding nearly one billion people to its global customer base and growing the firm’s organic sales by an average of three percent per year, growth reflected in a 2009 to 2013 P&G stock increase of 60 percent. During Mr. McDonald’s tenure, P&G was widely recognized for its leader development expertise. In 2012, Chief Executive Magazine named P&G the best company for developing leader talent. The Hay Group consistently cited P&G in its top-tier listing of Best Companies for Leadership Study.

A United States Military Academy Distinguished Military Graduate and Distinguished Alumnus, Secretary McDonald graduated in 1975 in the top 2 percent of his class. In 1978, he earned his MBA from the University of Utah.

Secretary McDonald served in the Army with the 82nd Airborne Division.

Response by SGT David A. 'Cowboy' Groth made Jul 18 at 2017 1:06 PM

2017-07-18T13:06:29-04:00

How's the outlook on affordable health care for veterans?

Response by CPT David Gowel made Jul 18 at 2017 2:12 PM

2017-07-18T14:12:47-04:00

Thanks for joining us CPT Bob McDonald. For our service members thinking about what they want to do next while still in uniform, what were the most impactful experiences you had in the military that served you well in your post-Army career?

Response by SPC Margaret Higgins made Jul 18 at 2017 3:54 PM

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CPT Bob McDonald: WE ARE HONORED TO HAVE YOU WITH US, CAPTAIN!
I have a question for you, Sir: How do you think the Trump administration is doing?
I pray that the abovementioned question is part of your area of expertise, Sir.
ENJOY YOUR TIME WITH US, CPT Bob McDonald!
-Most Sincerely, Margaret C. Higgins U.S. Army Retired

Response by PFC Pamala (Hall) Foster made Jul 18 at 2017 6:21 PM

2017-07-18T18:21:14-04:00

When will the FEMALE veteran population be seeing Full time OB-GYN, having regular screening for Cancer (Mammography) at the VA so we can be seen without going miles to a private hospital, be treated properly and NOT dismissed by doctors for our health concerns and MORE Specialized Women's Health Care? When will ALL veterans see BETTER care and not more of the same old same old, and what are you doing to end some of the in competencies of staff members, Directors and those who do NOT want to care properly for veterans, but want a paycheck only. Will they be fired or just moved so they can cause morale issues and the VA to lose good medical staff and what about hiring Veterans first who have Medical, Clerical,Computer,Administrative experience?

Response by PFC Bradley Campbell made Jul 18 at 2017 7:19 PM

2017-07-18T19:19:21-04:00

we need to get military voters and house and senate on board to clean house in the dead weight that hampers care for our veterans. and stop all cash bonuses and crap like that.

Response by Cpl Mark A. Morris made Jul 18 at 2017 7:33 PM

2017-07-18T19:33:40-04:00

Greetings,
Why does the contract TRIWEST holds with the VA veteran choice program not support ultrasound imaging?
Does regional VA hospital Management receive bonuses when revenue bench marks are met? Is that one of the reasons ultrasound imaging is not supported?
I realized, there are certain imaging exams supported. But, it appears few.
I look forward to reading your answer Sir.
Mark A. Morris BS, RDMS, RVT

Response by Capt Brandon Charters made Jul 18 at 2017 8:52 PM

2017-07-18T20:52:52-04:00

Thanks for joining us, CPT Bob McDonald. For each phase of your career at Procter & Gamble (from Brand Manager to CEO), how would you describe the most important keys to your success?

Response by Cpl Tim Callahan made Jul 18 at 2017 8:54 PM

2017-07-18T20:54:49-04:00

In hindsight, what would you have done to break through the bureaucracy at the VA?

Response by SGT Mark Halmrast made Jul 19 at 2017 12:11 AM

2017-07-19T00:11:11-04:00

Thank you, sir, for your service and for coming to RP.

Please share your intent for the VA, offer your candid assessment of the progress to date, and share your top near term objectives.

Thank you...and Airborne!

Response by Sgt Michael Kieloch made Jul 20 at 2017 10:04 AM

2017-07-20T10:04:16-04:00

Welcome Secretary CPT Bob McDonald: Did you find effectively communicating with the veteran community to be difficult, both in terms of getting the desired messages out there and in having meaningful two-way engagement with veterans? What were some of the challenges you faced in communicating with the veterans community and the general public?

Response by Sgt Jay Grigsby made Jul 20 at 2017 10:07 AM

2017-07-20T10:07:23-04:00

Should be a great discussion!

Response by SGT Brian Watkins made Jul 20 at 2017 10:59 AM

2017-07-20T10:59:21-04:00

I work in the IT field, and I hear a lot about the VA's infrastructure having conflict with legacy vs. semi-newer systems for records, and documentation etc. How is it that many fortune 500's and even smaller businesses can have their systems upgraded and running on the latest hardware and software, yet the VA seems to be lacking in this department for decades? With the new fiscal year on the horizon with the pro Military trump administration, do you foresee more critical systems analysis on the VA tech being discussed and executed, or more smoke and unicorn promises that fall well short of current IT benchmarks?

Response by Cpl Lawrence Lavictoire made Jul 20 at 2017 11:13 AM

2017-07-20T11:13:37-04:00

Glad to have you aboard Sir: I'll get right to the point; when will the VA be adding any presumptions of diseases for Agent Orange for VietNam vets? Thank you for your service Bob! CPT Bob McDonald

Response by CPO Private RallyPoint Member made Jul 20 at 2017 11:19 AM

2017-07-20T11:19:12-04:00

I am still active duty so I have yet to have to deal with the VA for my personal medical care. I can say I have watched My Father deal with it, my Grandfather deal with it, and many vets at the American Legion deal with it as I was growing up. I have listened to the RP members here tell their VA stories, I have read and watched the VA Scandals of my time unfold, and I have seen ZERO accountability, and a lot of misery.

So my question is simple.. WHY should anyone trust the VA? The VA has become a monstrous institution that serves its own purpose not the Vets. Its unions drain the funding from vet care, its Admin department is making 6 figures while refusing basic care to vets. How many times do we need to hear of secret lists, of lost records, of bonuses to corrupt administrators? How about the black mold, the possible hepatitis from non sterile equipment, the cost over runs for a hospital that wasn't needed, arbitrary reduction in benefits with out any medical review, Choice program that was designed to fail, cockroaches in food?......

I personally view the VA as the enemy of the fighting man. It has a very LONG history of corruption and scandals starting in 1932... There really has been no change since then. I don't expect an answer I just want you to know there are vets out here who are disgusted with how our Brothers and Sisters have been treated. We are Disgusted with Washington and the criminal behavior of those who "run" the VA.

Response by Cpl Lawrence Lavictoire made Jul 20 at 2017 11:20 AM

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VA benefits for early-onset peripheral neuropathy CPT Bob McDonald

Veterans with early-onset peripheral neuropathy that appeared within one year of exposure to herbicides during service to a degree of at least 10 percent disabling by VA's rating regulations may be eligible for disability compensation and health care. My question Bob, is how did the VA determine this disease caused by Agent Orange way back in 1968, when the medical effects of Agent Orange were not even known of or studied as of yet? I can not rap-my-head around this thinking! Can you answer this question for me Sir? Thank You

Response by SFC William Stephens A. Jr., 3 MSM, JSCM made Jul 20 at 2017 11:56 AM

2017-07-20T11:56:53-04:00

Mr. Secretary, I'm currently receiving 90% rating for PTSD and a few other things currently the medication and of the pain meds I have been on for 3 years has counter acting with my body and making me bleed out and affecting my Kidneys, which I did not know because I'm addict to pain, But I noticed the bleed out the other day. I went to the ER and the Hospital told me that my PTSD medication is affecting my body so they admitted me for several test. I also have a colonoscopy coming up next week because of the bleeding. Can I file a claim for 100% or more percentage to be added to my 90% because the medication that the VA has been given me is destroying my body? The hospital not VA has put me on a new stomach medication seems to me that the PHCM and he Physiatrist doctor can't get the right meds together for me. What do I do now? file new claim for misuse of medication by VA for years.

Response by SSG Private RallyPoint Member made Jul 20 at 2017 12:21 PM

2017-07-20T12:21:33-04:00

Now as the former VA Secretary, from your perspective, in what ways are you contributing to the VA in order for the department to be successful?

Response by GySgt George Vukovich made Jul 20 at 2017 2:41 PM

2017-07-20T14:41:20-04:00

Secretary McDonald, thank you for joining and I look forward to this session! In addition to my day-time job, I am also the current Chair for the Four State Community Veterans Engagement Board (CVEB) based from the Martinsburg, WV region. As the CVEB's are a portion of your My Va Community initiative please describe your vision of the impact CVEB's should have from a community perspective?
Thanks, sir!

Response by SPC Joshua Pruitt made Jul 20 at 2017 2:51 PM

2017-07-20T14:51:51-04:00

How is the Department of Veteran Affairs looking towards Veterans whom were wrongfully punished and or was punished way too hard for their disobedience during their time in service?

There are Veterans out there whom have proper evidence towards their claims but the various review boards and I am talking about the Board Corrections of Military Records (B.C.M.R), Army Review Board Agency (A.R.B.A) and the Army Discharge Review Board (A.D.R.B) are denying the new evidence for these veterans so they are unable to get their discharges upgraded so they can receive the proper medical care, they also are denied being around other Veterans, like the Veterans that have support groups in the VA Hospitals, so they have no one to relate to at all.

There are a lot of Veterans whom join the military to obtain a better education so they can have a more stable life for their families.... There are Veterans whom joined the military whom had children whom also went overseas got into trouble and now they are home and homeless, their wives or husbands left them and their children grow up without the proper guidance from their parents and the Department of Veteran Affairs does nothing for these soldiers and they also have no benefits, these soldiers lives were better before they joined. I know what war does and I know all Veterans don't come home the same as before they left but I am talking mostly on the side where Veterans had to face judicial review in more than one way........

The Department of Veteran Affairs turns soldiers away whom have Bad Conduct Discharges and Dishonorable Discharges but they have evidence supporting a new claim that took some of them a decade or more to get but they are denied anyways by the various boards and by the Department of Veteran Affairs. I hope you have something done about this major issue sir.......

President Donald J Trumps Veteran Hotline [login to see] is suppose to be set up to help Veterans that are not receiving proper care, well this Hotline is no good sir......and this is why, when you call this hotline number and you give your complaints to the people that answer, those people then pass that information to the Department of Veteran Affairs where these soldiers are already getting denied, why does this hotline exist????

There is no way that President Trump knows about this problem with this hotline.....
I believe your the man to fix these issues......
Thank you for your consideration......

Response by CPT Joseph K Murdock made Jul 20 at 2017 2:59 PM

2017-07-20T14:59:35-04:00

What are the plans for the Care Giver Program?

Response by SFC Freddie Porter made Jul 20 at 2017 5:04 PM

2017-07-20T17:04:15-04:00

Why the delay, delay delay in processing back pay? Why the delay, delay, delay for processing claims and NoD. 18 months to 24 months to process a NoD? Is that an acceptable wait time? Is a minimum of 270 days to process back pay acceptable or is that'll even at Disneyworld?

Response by SSG Warren Swan made Jul 20 at 2017 5:37 PM

2017-07-20T17:37:26-04:00

Thank you for coming Sir. WHY is the one word question.

Why as a veteran yourself, not make a bigger deal of the VA while you were in, and after you got out? Nothing vets of today are going through is any different than what you and vets before you went through.

Why as a veteran yourself, did you see the wrongs with the VA when we went to war in 2001 and not make a more vocal voice in changing it?

Why as a veteran yourself, you were in a serious position of power with the companies you worked for, and you could've leveraged that position without compromising it and your integrity to make healthcare in general for anyone serving along with those who have served?

I believe your time was too short as VA Secretary to make the strong changes needed to make the VA better, and many are problematic for your successor. If you could talk to him through us, what would be your AAR to him, your lessons learned, and your way forward? Lastly WHY would those items be what you chose?

Again I thank you for coming to RP.
"Duty First"

Response by CWO3 Private RallyPoint Member made Jul 20 at 2017 5:52 PM

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Thanks for your years of service and best wishes.

Response by SSG Trevor S. made Jul 20 at 2017 6:45 PM

2017-07-20T18:45:37-04:00

Why would certain positions within the VA not be open to transitioning Veterans?
Here is an example:
Who May Apply
This job is open to…
Must be a current, permanent SAVAHCS employee
https://www.usajobs.gov/GetJob/ViewDetails/473850300/

Voucher Examiner

As a VA professional, your opportunities are endless. With many openings in the multiple functions of VA, you will have a wide range of opportunities and leadership positions at your fingertips. Not only is it the largest, most technologically advanced integrated health care system in the Nation, but we also provide many other services to Veterans through the Benefits Administration and National Cemeteries. VA professionals feel good about...

Response by SGT Steve Hines-Saich B.S. M.S. Cybersecurity made Jul 20 at 2017 7:59 PM

2017-07-20T19:59:53-04:00

I am an OIF era veteran and former VA intern. It would be great to see the pathways program receive funding for further medical and stem initiatives that help veterans.

Response by SPC Christopher Jackson made Jul 20 at 2017 8:05 PM

2017-07-20T20:05:00-04:00

Can you simplify the indemnity process? If I divorce my wife, simplify the process so my kids get the indemnification? or if I should stay married, forego the paperwork and automatically switch from my normal VA payments to indemnification after I pass? I have seen the paperwork and it's mind boggling

Response by CSM Charles Hayden made Jul 20 at 2017 9:12 PM

2017-07-20T21:12:57-04:00

CPT McDonald / BOB,

Do you recall saying: One reason you left the Army because the 'Ethics practiced' in the Big Army were not practiced / nor observed as much as the Ethics you were taught at West Point?

That one stuck in my mind.

Thank you for your service to the Nation and the Army.

Respectfully,

Charles H Hayden
CSM, retired, U S Army

Response by COL John McClellan made Jul 20 at 2017 10:22 PM

2017-07-20T22:22:44-04:00

Can the VA be saved, and what will that take?

Response by SGT Damaso V Santana made Jul 20 at 2017 10:26 PM

2017-07-20T22:26:06-04:00

Mr. Secretary, I had the pleasure of meeting you briefly at P&G while visiting A.G Lafley.
I was there to discuss Telenovelas in Europe and Asia.
Thank you for your service and for giving us here at Rally Point of your valuable time.

Response by CPT Private RallyPoint Member made Jul 20 at 2017 10:32 PM

2017-07-20T22:32:19-04:00

What is your vision regarding performance objectives that are measurable and accountable for VA employees?

Response by CPL Crystal Pettway, MBA made Jul 21 at 2017 7:21 AM

2017-07-21T07:21:39-04:00

Good morning Sir. I'd like to hear your views on how you think the VA Choice Program is working thus far and how it will fair in the future with the monies for the program already running out after three years?

Response by COL Mikel J. Burroughs made Jul 21 at 2017 8:26 AM

2017-07-21T08:26:47-04:00

CPT Bob McDonald Thanks for being here on RallyPoint to answer questions Bob. Thanks for your service to our veterans. My question is two part:

How difficult was it for you in Washington DC to do anything to move the needle with the VA under the past administration and how difficult is it to get anything done for the VA with all the politics that are involved in Washngton DC? Your candor is appreciated Bob!

Response by COL Mikel J. Burroughs made Jul 21 at 2017 8:39 AM

2017-07-21T08:39:22-04:00

RALLYPOINT CONTINUES TO BRING THE VERY BEST IN HONORED GUEST TO ITS MEMBERS!

RP MEMBERS AND CONNECTIONS - PLEASE JOIN IN ON THE RALLYPOINT LIVE Q&A WITH CPT Bob McDonald ON JULY 25, 2017.

WHAT A GREAT OPPORTUNITY TO ASK THE REALLY GOOD, TOUGH, AND PROFESSIONAL QUESTIONS FACING ONE OF OUR VERY OWN VETERANS DURING HIS TIME AS THE 8TH SECRETARY OF VETERANS AFFAIRS, HIS PERSONAL EXPERIENCE IN DEALING WITH THE POLITICS OF WASHINGTON, HIS LEADERSHIP, AND HIS PAST EXPERIENCES IN THE MILITARY AND CIVILIAN SECTOR.

PLEASE POST YOUR QUESTION TODAY:
https://www.rallypoint.com/answers/hi-everyone-bob-mcdonald-here-8th-secretary-of-veterans-affairs-i-ll-be-by-on-july-25th-for-a-live-q-a-what-questions-do-you-have-for-me

THE RALLYPOINT FORUM CONTINUES TO PROVIDE THESE GREAT OPPORTUNITIES TO ALL OF OUR VETERANS, SERVICE MEMBERS, RETIREES, CIVILIAN RECRUITERS, CIVILIAN SUPPORTERS, AND MILITARY FAMILY MEMBERS TO REACH OUT & ASK PROFESSIONAL QUESTIONS TO FORMER SERVICE MEMBERS AND LEADERS OF OUR COUNTRY.

YOUR GREAT PARTICIPATION IS WELCOME, APPRECIATED, AND NEEDED TO KEEP THIS TYPE OF FORUM MOVING FORWARD.

THANKS FOR YOUR CONTINUED SUPPORT!

Hi everyone, Bob McDonald here, 8th Secretary of Veterans Affairs. I'll be by on July 25th for a...

Response by LTC Jason Strickland made Jul 21 at 2017 9:43 AM

2017-07-21T09:43:02-04:00

CPT Bob McDonald, thank you for taking the time to spend with the RallyPoint members via this Q&A - much appreciated! And congrats on joining their Board of Directors!
I currently work for the VA in VHA's Office of Community Care and I'm proud of my organization and the Veterans and family members we serve. During your tenure at the helm, you made a lot of changes, fought off a lot of negative press, and restructured a lot of programs. What's one initiative/idea you weren't able to accomplish either due to lack of time or lack of support? Why do you feel you couldn't push the initiative/idea across the goal line?

Response by 2LT Private RallyPoint Member made Jul 21 at 2017 10:12 AM

2017-07-21T10:12:18-04:00

What do you think about the VA accountability bill? What are the major changes you think the VA needs to make to better serve veterans in the 21st century?

Response by Emerald S made Jul 21 at 2017 12:46 PM

2017-07-21T12:46:58-04:00

when will the VA employees go through there physical tests to see if they are ready for more active duty. ( always good to be prepared) this may help the VA relate .

Response by PFC David Gettman made Jul 21 at 2017 2:04 PM

2017-07-21T14:04:59-04:00

My father served 8 years in the National Guard 1930-38, and 29 years active duty from 1942-71, including combat in Europe 1944-45 with 99ID (Battle of the Bulge, Ludendorff Bridge, Ruhr Pocket); combat in Korea 1950-51 with 2ID (Pusan Breakout, drive to Yalu River, the Gauntlet where 2ID suffered over 5000 casualties the final 5 days of November 1950); service in Vietnam 1966-67 with 4ID; Panama 1968 (where he contracted malaria)....

Dad was medically discharged in 1971 at the age of 60. Immediately he was forced into another battle, for a disability rating that wasn't a slap in the face. Once he finally won that battle and received a well deserved 100% rating, he got the big bomb shell....can't have retirement and disability pay both.

Your thoughts?

Response by SSG Michael Hale made Jul 21 at 2017 2:21 PM

2017-07-21T14:21:32-04:00

First, I'm a 100% Disable Veteran. I receive the same Benefits as a Retired Veteran. I would love to be able to Fly Space A. Myself and other 100% veterans feel the same way. This would be nice if you or someone could make this happened

Response by SN Robert Carnrike made Jul 21 at 2017 2:24 PM

2017-07-21T14:24:12-04:00

When is the VA as a whole going to start dropping unqualified MD's who are in the mindset they are right and the patient has no clue what wrong with them and pushes pills on them that they don't want. TO the DO's who look to cure the actual underlying issues and work with the Veterans to improve their health and reduce the overall backlog of veterans waiting to be seen, funding getting cut etc.

Response by CPT Aaron Kletzing made Jul 21 at 2017 2:49 PM

2017-07-21T14:49:41-04:00

Sir, what is the best type of formal strategic relationship that RallyPoint can have with the VA?

Response by CAPT Patrick Mulcahy made Jul 21 at 2017 7:18 PM

2017-07-21T19:18:28-04:00

I was one of those veterans caught up in a different sort of VA scandal. After I retired, I called the VA 1-800 number to get recognized as a veteran by the VA. Each time over three years (2013-2015), the VA representative on the phone would take my information and say "You are registered." I never heard anything back, and then I would call again after six months to a year and begin again. It was only after I had my Congressman's office call that I found out the representatives on the phone left off some vital information - two VA forms had to be submitted for the process to be complete. So on paper I looked like someone in process (for which i assume the VA took credit) but in reality I would never have been in the VA system without those two forms. What have you specifically done to remedy the VA benefit and healthcare system series of abuses that have occurred in the past?

Response by LTJG Richard Bruce made Jul 22 at 2017 12:10 AM

2017-07-22T00:10:47-04:00

I have high frequency hearing loss and excessive ringing in the ears due to exposure to weapons firing and engine noise. Eleven year vet of the Coast Guard served on five ships. Last afloat billet was Weapons Officer on a 378ft cutter. RELAD 1990.

VA awarded 10% service connected disability effective Jan 2016. Problem is the hearing loss happened on active duty, not afterward. I paid for two private hearing test 2008 and 2015. VA did not accept these tests. I believe effective date should be 1990, not 2016. Second problem - As an officer, I received severance after leaving the service upon completion of my five year commitment after graduating from the Academy. I won't get one penny until the equivalent of my severance amount is matched. With a 2016 effective date, I won't receive any money until I am 71. If effective date was pushed back to 1990 or 2008, monies will be received so I can use it to create a Health Savings Account for future use.

I appealed the effective date ruling. VA sent me a letter stating it will take at least 377 days to make a decision. Why so long? Because if it is a "No", I will appeal and hopefully still be alive when I hear back.

Response by Private RallyPoint Member made Jul 22 at 2017 12:21 AM

2017-07-22T00:21:32-04:00

Thank you Col. !!!

Response by MSG Private RallyPoint Member made Jul 22 at 2017 12:34 AM

2017-07-22T00:34:50-04:00

Why has the VA eliminated the Choice Dental Program?

Response by SGT Mark Halmrast made Jul 22 at 2017 1:04 AM

2017-07-22T01:04:32-04:00

Thank you, Mr. Secretary, for joining us on RP.

Driving large scale performance improvement across an organization requires overcoming many sets of obstacles.

In your experience, which type of obstacle is the most difficult to address while driving successful change, and what did you find to be most useful in overcoming it:

- technical
- political
- cultural

Thank you for your service to our nation as both an officer in the US Army, as CEO of a leading company, and as the Secretary of the VA.

Respectfully...and Airborne!
Mark

Response by Wanda Afualo-Carey made Jul 22 at 2017 4:20 AM

2017-07-22T04:20:26-04:00

CPT Bob McDonald Hello Sir. Would like to start off by thanking you for your honorable service to your nation, also thank you for being available to answer our questions & comments. I am currently a Nurse at the Denver VA (started working here about 6 months ago) & I love, I mean "LOVE" working for my heroes & heroines out here. I take great pride in working where I do & for those I am assigned to care for. I know that there are a lot of improvements that are needed within the VA & alas I've heard some real horror stories about the "VA experiences" some of my veterans have endured in the past.

I am fully aware of the bureaucracy that encapsulates a lot of what goes on here & know that the majority of the frustrations voiced about the VA may have stemmed from less effective policies & procedures that were in effect. I have a myriad of questions, but will leave those for our respective veterans to ask.

As a civilian supporter of our veterans & the eternal optimist that I am, I'm looking forward to working here in years to come & continuing to take as much pride in working for an organization that puts its clients first & foremost above the "bottom line." I look forward to the changes that I pray will be implemented to make the VA a viable & dynamic leading force in the nation's healthcare arena! So that those who served this nation, will be cared for as they deserve, with top of the line services in every aspect! Thank you for your time Sir.

Response by LTC Terrence Farrier, PhD made Jul 22 at 2017 10:26 AM

2017-07-22T10:26:52-04:00

To the Honorable Bob McDonald,
Dear Sir, how can I use my skills as a Ph.D. [Applied Management and Decision Sciences - focus in Leadership and Organizational Change] and business consultant [see at https://cpbs.us] to help you help our veterans? Please let me know.

Response by Sgt Albert Castro made Jul 22 at 2017 2:52 PM

2017-07-22T14:52:24-04:00

I have no questions Mr. Secretary, but I want to thank you for the changes you are bringing to the V.A. since you took office. For far to long the V.A has failed it mission to provide for our veterans. Veterans are watching Sir. Please continue to help us out and thank you Mr. Secretary for your service to this great country and it's proud veterans . God Bless

Response by PO3 Michael Synan made Jul 22 at 2017 6:20 PM

2017-07-22T18:20:27-04:00

as a Veteran receiving a NSC and NOT being a 100% aslo a AVR recipient w/post Op infec How can I ask my VA to pull remaining teeth for dentures ..every tooth ache is a possible infection which could be harmful /deadly from effects a endocarditis thanks~

Response by SGM Matthew Quick made Jul 23 at 2017 10:48 PM

2017-07-23T22:48:16-04:00

Mr. Secretary, what was the biggest obstacle(s) removing poor leadership and poor performers under your leadership? In your opinion, what will it take to eliminate these obstacles?

Response by SSgt James Deitch made Jul 24 at 2017 2:28 PM

2017-07-24T14:28:08-04:00

Thank you for your service Sir.

25 years ago I served with honor in Saudi Arabia and Kuwait. During my almost 13 years in the Marine Corps, I was recognized with over 29 medals, ribbons, and citations plus additional letters of recognition. Ten years ago I began attempting to make claims related to illnesses directly attributed to Desert Storm. I was told my medical records had been destroyed or lost and therefore they could not validate my claims. However, as part of this process they issued me additional medal and awards they stated I earned. In June of 2016 my claim was finally initiated. In October of 2016 I was prescribed a service dog for my PTS. Reagan came into my life the following month. Despite the fact that I was in mental health treatment, as a result of my claim I had to go through a separate independent mental health screening which was a strain. I was informed vie my profile site on eBenefits that I would have resolution by June of 2017. That has come and passed. Checking the site today it has been updated and I have been informed via my page that I will have an answer between February and September of 2018 with a big asterisk and disclaimer on the bottom saying it may take longer. So my question is how can Sarah Huckabee Sanders stand at the podium in the White House briefing room and say that there have been major improvements to the VA? For a long time patient of the VA there has been no visible changes that I can attest to. Please understand this is not a reflection on the doctors, nurses and volunteers, who are all very caring and professional. It is the ineptness and bureaucratic nonsense of the claim process that is. What is your plan to address this problem?

SSgt James Deitch

Response by Maj Private RallyPoint Member made Jul 24 at 2017 3:03 PM

2017-07-24T15:03:39-04:00

Secretary McDonald, what lessons have you learned during your tenure with the VA that you would like to see implemented over the coming months/years regarding improved quality health care for our veterans?

Response by 1SG Private RallyPoint Member made Jul 24 at 2017 4:09 PM

2017-07-24T16:09:34-04:00

What are you doing to combat fraud among claimants who claim conditions that are difficult to prove, such as PTSD?
It has been my observation that anyone can download the rating symptoms from the internet and say they have all these problems, when reality is less than that, if any.

My disclaimer is that I am not a medical professional, and am not academically qualified to render an opinion.

I am all for Veterans getting the care and compensation they have earned, but I have seen too many cases like this to believe that it is an anomaly, and we are talking about serious dollars
Thank you in advance, Mr Secretary.

Response by SGT Kaelin Locker made Jul 25 at 2017 5:03 PM

2017-07-25T17:03:52-04:00

Do you have a morning routine? if so what is it like?

Response by SGT Kaelin Locker made Jul 25 at 2017 5:06 PM

2017-07-25T17:06:51-04:00

Do you think those who have combat related PTSD should get a purple heart?

Response by Sgt Bob Leonard made Jul 25 at 2017 5:16 PM

2017-07-25T17:16:47-04:00

OK. I'll give it a shot...

I worked B52s and KC135s at UTapao Thailand, 1972-73. I'm also quick to say I am a Vietnam ERA Vet, not a Vietnam Vet. I wasn't boots on the ground in Nam, I didn't earn that title, I won't use it.

I'm 100% disabled attributed to exposure to Agent Orange (who knew it was used as a defoliant around all the bases in SEA and surrounding...). My condition has been going steadily downhill since the mid-90s.

When I first approached my local VA (mid 1990s) to begin paperwork to see if I was entitled to some assistance, I was told that my condition was not considered Service Related and it was pointless to apply. So I didn't.

Ten to twelve years later, a young friend of mine, a Desert Storm Vet, told me to check into it again, some rules had changed. I checked, and found that the rules had, indeed changed, and exposure to AO (which, until then, I hadn't even suspected) was considered a proximate cause of my neurologic and muscle spasm problems.

It's mildly frustrating to me that I missed out on almost a decade's worth of assistance because someone at VA told me "Don't bother.", but only mildly. Life and the Good Lord have been good to me so far, otherwise.

But now... My real question/topic:

Last Nov. I started working with the VA to have some needed renovations done to my home to accommodate my new level of disability. (Wheelchair bound, et al. that nobody wants to hear about...). The General Contractor I've chosen and the "local" VA rep for this project (I'm in Oregon, the Rep is in Idaho, if that's considered local - - the Rep I started with was in Portland, OR, but he retired two or three months into the process) have been in constant communication since the start, but we seem to be no closer to starting the renovations now than we were almost nine months ago.

It seems that everytime my paperwork gets sent to a new level of review, someone finds something that needs clarification or some minor tweaking. Some of that is to be expected, I guess, but the most frequent frustration is that, during the reviewing, requests (plural) for clarification, and just simple dithering while the paperwork works it's way from pillar to post, my financial statements become outdated. Which prompts a request for a current financial report, which delays everything for another two to ten days. Lather, rinse, and repeat...

After all that... I realize the VA is a HUGE operation. I believe that the majority of VA Workers are diligent and truly care about us. But there are so many hoops to jump through, 't's to cross, 'i's to dot, bells to ring, and walls to bang our collective heads against, can't someone, somewhere, sometime, do something to cause things to move a little faster. I am semi-jokingly telling my wife that the final approval for the work to begin on the house will arrive two weeks after I am interred in a Veteran's Cemetery.

EOR: End Of Rant. Thank you.

Response by CPT Bob McDonald made Jul 25 at 2017 5:18 PM

2017-07-25T17:18:03-04:00

I'm sorry. I've got to run. If there is interest, I would be happy to join you again soon. Best wishes everyone. Thank you for your service. Bob

Response by AN Christopher Crayne made Jul 26 at 2017 9:35 AM

2017-07-26T09:35:54-04:00

CPT Bob McDonald The only questions that I would like to pose are below my explanation. Please bare with me.
I have a 100% rating for PTSD and SMDD, and had attended my C&P exam for both this last year. After the examination I was sent a VBA letter stating I was facing a proposal of incompetancy.
As stated to do so by the VBA letter's instructions I filed VA Form 9. NOD. Notice of Disagreement. And weeks later I received a second VBA letter stating I had filed my disagreement too soon and as such it was not a valid or admissible Notice of disagreement. As "it was only a proposal at this time". The letter furthermore stated the VBA would hold a hearing to adjudicate me for incompetency or find me competent. And only at that time would they advise me of their decision. Meaning I'm not able to File a disagreement until after I'm found adjudicated one way or the other. This all stemming from the Dr. Giving the C&P exam, checking a single box on the exam's Question.#7 "Is the veteran able to handle his or her own affairs?"
My question to you is how a Dr., of whom you have never met, decided in a very short period of time a persons financial situation and history. Pushing the veteran forward into a proposal of incompetency. The consequences of which can severely disrupt your life if you are indeed competent. With that being said, why isn't there a way to to connect with the VA/ VBA and create dialogue and / or solutions before a decision is carried down first. It would seem logical to do so before adjudication. Due Process? Thank you for your time sir.It is very appreciated.

Response by SFC Private RallyPoint Member made Jul 28 at 2017 11:14 PM

2017-07-28T23:14:20-04:00

My apologies CPT Bob McDonald Sir for missing your live Q&A date. I will save my questions for another day Sir. Thank you for your continued service to our Vets and our struggling needs. God Bless you in these strenuous and difficult tasks that lie ahead.

Response by CPT Beverly VanTull made Aug 2 at 2017 1:38 PM

2017-08-02T13:38:01-04:00

Thank you Sir for all your trailblazing support at the VAMC! Virginia has the first Military Medics and Corpsman program in the nation. See one of our local Corpsman success stories: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=E6qZWgbkvAM I truly appreciate your Intermediate Care Technician (ICT) program implementation team (Mr. Joe Colon & co) being so helpful during the development of our program in Virginia last year. We are so excited to keep helping these Veterans get employed in Virginia's Healthcare Industry for many years to come. #WhyVirginia

Virginia's Military Medics and Corpsmen Program, Interview with First Female Veteran MMAC Hire

Shanail Romane, Navy Corpsman discusses her transition from the Navy to the civilian healthcare workforce in Virginia via assistance from Virginia's Military...

Response by SGT James Murphy made Aug 2 at 2017 5:59 PM

2017-08-02T17:59:40-04:00

How Quickly can you process out all the Homosexuals and will Women be taken OUT of Combat situations?

Response by SVA Chapter Uvu made Nov 4 at 2017 4:28 PM

2017-11-04T16:28:54-04:00

Hi Bob! It is me, Amanda Bass from SVA Leadership Institute! I was happy to see you here. I am sharing this with the UVU SVA Chapter so they can get involved.