VetXL: Women Together - Q&A with Acting Deputy Secretary Pamela Powers and VA Leadership. What are your questions?

2020-09-01T08:19:05-04:00

Supporting the Whole Woman Veteran - Leadership and Resiliency through COVID and Beyond.
Please join the Department of Veterans Affairs (VA) on RallyPoint, September 30th from 3-4PM EST, for a one of a kind Woman Veteran Q&A with Deputy Secretary Col Pamela Powers.

You can ask questions to the following people in advance or during the live event by typing your questions into the "Respond to original question..." box below:

Patty Hayes, Ph.D., Chief Officer, Women's Health Service
Maj Jaquie Hayes-Byrd, Executive Director, Center for Women Veterans
Sara Eichstaedt, Clinical Social Worker, Military National Sexual Trauma Program
LtCol Brad Lanto, Director of Partnerships for Suicide Prevention Program
SGT Bryce Carpenter, Office of Engagement and Memorial Innovations (OEMI)
CPT Cheryl Rawls, VBA, ADUS Outreach and Stakeholder Engagement
The Honorable Cheryl Mason, Chairman of the Board of Veterans’ Appeals
Col Dennis May, Deputy, Center for Minority Veterans
SGT Bryce Carpenter, NCA, Educational Outreach Programs Officer
RDML Ann Duff, Executive Director, Office of Survivors Assistance
Jennifer Strauss, National Women's Mental Health Program Manager
Kathy Hedrick, PhD, Lead, Field Implementation Team, Office of Patient Centered Care & Cultural Transformation
Amanda Johnson, MD, Director of Reproductive Health, Women’s Health Services
Kavitha Reddy, Associate Director, VHA OPCC & CT
Susan McCutcheon, National MH Director, Family/Women’s MH/MST
Col Michelle Gardner-Ince, Director, Women Veterans Small Business Initiative
Susan McCutcheon, National Mental Health Director
LTC Elizabeth Brill, Office of Community Care, Chief Medical Officer OCC VHA
Gayle Iwamasa, National Mental Health Quality Improvement and Implementation Consultant

Women Veterans Health Care-
https://rly.pt/WomensHealth

Center for Women Veterans-
https://rly.pt/CenterForWomenVeterans
The CWV advises VA Secretary and leadership on issues impacting women Veterans to empower you, to ensure that you are aware of and have access to the benefits and services that Women Veterans deserve because we have earned them. We work hand in hand with VHA, VBA and NCA and staff offices to create the environment where women Veterans’ needs are recognized and met. We are the portal for all things women Veterans – to help create a positive Veterans experience. We integrate, advocate, and connect with open exchange of information and to serve as a resource hub to connect with local, state, and federal resources.

Women’s Mental Health, Office of Mental Health and Suicide Prevention-
https://rly.pt/MentalHealth
VA offers a full continuum of gender-sensitive, evidence-informed mental health services for women Veterans, including general and specialty outpatient services, residential and inpatient care. VA mental health providers have the knowledge, skills and expertise to address women Veterans’ diverse treatment needs and preferences across the course of their lives. Reproductive mental health is an area of focus, including premenstrual mood problems, depression and anxiety during pregnancy and postpartum, depression during the transition to menopause, and mental health challenges faced by women with chronic pelvic pain, breast cancer or ovarian cancer.

VBA-
https://rly.pt/VAbenefits
The Veterans Benefits Administration (VBA) delivers a wide array of benefits and services to eligible Veterans, Servicemembers, their families, and survivors. Our benefits can include; providing compensation for an injury or loss sustained or aggravated while serving in the military, assisting Veterans with home purchase or educational needs, and providing access to career training, to name a few. VBA has Women Veteran Coordinators assigned to every regional office and they assist women Veterans with connecting to their benefits.

Appeals-
https://rly.pt/VAdecisionreviews
The Board of Veterans’ Appeals (Board) is an agency within the Department of Veterans Affairs (VA). Its mission is to conduct hearings and issue timely decisions for Veterans and other appellants in compliance with the law, 38 United States Code (U.S.C.) § 7101(a). The Board is responsible for making final decisions on behalf of the Secretary regarding appeals for Veterans’ benefits and services from all three administrations - Veterans Benefits Administration (VBA), Veterans Health Administration (VHA), and National Cemetery Administration (NCA)—as well as the Office of General Counsel (OGC)that are presented to the Board for appellate review. The Board’s jurisdiction extends to all questions in a matter involving a decision by the Secretary under the law that affects a provision of benefits by the Secretary to Veterans, their dependents, or their survivors. 38 U.S.C. §§ 511(a); 7104(a). Final decisions on appeals are made by the Board based on the entire record in the proceeding and all applicable provisions of law and regulation. 38 U.S.C. § 7104(a).

Center for Minority Veterans-
https://rly.pt/VAcmv
The Center for Minority Veterans (CMV) was established by Public Law 103-446, in 1994. CMV serves as an advocate for minority Veterans by conducting outreach activities to promote the awareness and use of VA benefits and services. The Center’s activities include:
Promote the use of benefits authorized by this title by Veterans who are minorities and the conduct of outreach activities to Veterans who are minorities;
Disseminate information and serve as a resource center for the exchange of information regarding innovative and successful programs which improve the services available to Veterans who are minorities

For more information, contact the CMV Staff at [login to see] or visit the CMV website:https://rly.pt/VAcmv

MST-
Unfortunately, some Veterans experience sexual assault or sexual harassment during their service, and these experiences can have a lasting impact on health, even many years later. Recovery from military sexual trauma (MST) is possible, however, and VA is here to help. VA provides free care for both mental and physical health conditions related to Veterans’ experiences of MST and Veterans may be able to receive this care, even if they are not eligible for other VA care. You do not need to have reported your experiences at the time or have any documentation they occurred, and do not need to have a VA disability rating. Visit http://www.mentalhealth.va.gov/msthome.asp to learn more.

NCA-
https://rly.pt/VAnca
U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs (VA) national cemeteries will resume committal services starting June 9 in all but two VA national cemeteries. VA national cemeteries will contact families who were unable to hold a committal service due to the COVID-19 pandemic to arrange memorial services for their loved ones beginning in July. Veterans Legacy Memorial will allows online visitors to leave a “tribute” text at http://www.va.gov/remember

Caregiver-
https://rly.pt/VACaregiver
Veterans Affairs (VA) Caregiver Support Program (CSP) offers a wide array of services to family members and friends who care for Veterans, including on-line courses, face-to-face classes, telephone support, and peer support. These services are offered in addition to the support provided to families and caregivers across VA by clinicians as part of a Veteran’s care. Every VA medical center has a Caregiver Support Coordinator (CSC) who assists with information and referrals to these programs. For help, contact your local Caregiver Support Coordinator using the Caregiver Support Program CSC Locator Page or call the VA Caregiver Support Line at [login to see] (toll free 8 a.m. to 8 p.m. ET). You can also visit http://www.caregiver.va.gov.

Survivors Assistance-
https://rly.pt/SurvivorsAssistance
The Office of Survivors Assistance serves as an expert resource regarding all benefits and services furnished by the VA to Survivors and Dependents of deceased Veterans and members of the Armed Forces. We can help you navigate the myriad of benefits and services available, and direct you to your best options. Additionally, we work closely with veteran service organizations, other departments, state and local veteran groups and community leaders to educate everyone about available services and benefits.

Whole Health-
https://rly.pt/WholeHealth
Whole Health is VA’s cutting-edge holistic approach to care that supports your health and well-being. Whole Health is an approach to health care that empowers and equips Veterans to take charge of their health and well-being and to live their life to the fullest. Whole Health centers around what matters to you, not what is the matter with you. This means your health team will get to know you as a person, before working with you to develop a personalized health plan based on your values, needs, and goals. The Whole Health System includes conventional treatment, but also focuses on self-empowerment, self-healing, and self-care. The Whole Health System moves VA forward from focusing on episodic care to a more continuous engagement with you through your life. The Whole Health System is the current vision for complementary and integrative health (CIH) integration in VA and includes three components:

The Pathway: Veteran peers partnering with you and your family, exploring your mission/purpose/aspirations and beginning your overarching personal health plan.
Well-being Programs: Skill building and support; proactive, integrative health approaches such as stress reduction, yoga, tai chi, mindfulness, nutrition, acupuncture, health coaching
Whole Health Clinical Care: VA or community providers, or both, trained in Whole Health; focusing on relationships, complementary and integrative health approaches, and personal health planning

Women’s Health Services-
Women’s Health is responsible for the policy development and implementation of health care to women Veterans. The mission of Women’s Health is to ensure that all women Veterans receive equitable, high-quality, and comprehensive health care services in a sensitive and safe environment at all VA facilities.

OSDBU-
OSDBU advocates for Veterans to gain access to economic opportunities by developing policies and programs, improve market research, increase direct access and maximize the participation of procurement ready SDVOSBs and VOSBs in federal contracting.

RallyPoint Rules and Conduct: https://rallypoint.force.com/Support/s/article/rallypoint-answers-and-discussion-conduct-2020-03-13-10-21-35

WomensHealth

Response by Lt Col Charlie Brown made Sep 1 at 2020 8:30 AM

2020-09-01T08:30:26-04:00

How do we connect the Red Cross Service to the Armed Forces resiliency workshops (free to veterans) to our women vets who need it? We have virtual versions available as well. Who would be the POC for this?

Response by Capt Katherine Kalish made Sep 2 at 2020 7:52 PM

2020-09-02T19:52:28-04:00

Does anyone know how to contact Sec. Powers to help me get the Rocky Mountain Region's Oncology department in Aurora to send in the paperwork to my Radiation Oncologist, Dr. Daniel Chin, in Thornton so that I may begin my Radiation Therapy asap? I had my breast cancer surgery on 29 July 2020. My breast surgeon put in the paperwork to the VA right after my surgery. The oncology department at RMR approved my using Community Care with Rocky Mountain Cancer Center for treatment on 18 Aug 2020, but they still have not sent the authorization to Dr. Chin's office for me to begin treatment. My breast surgeon said I should begin Radiation Therapy within one month of surgery. Please help me get all necessary paperwork to Dr. Chin's office asap so I may begin Radiation Therapy. Cancer Treatment is time sensitive.

Response by SSG Kim Gilster made Sep 3 at 2020 8:13 AM

2020-09-03T08:13:36-04:00

This is not women veteran specific but I am wondering why community care chiropractic and acupuncture has been changed to only allow 12 initial treatments then 8 and 8? Many of us suffer from chronic pain and the current medications are of little to no help. However; acupuncture and chiropractic treatments really help a lot. We are not allowed the opiods that once helped us (only 5% of patients became addicted) yet, when we find treatments that do help, we are denied effective treatment.
To make matters worse, the practitioners are now being asked to do an unusual amount of paperwork and being treated as if they are VA employees instead of those contracted by the VA. My current acupuncturist who sees 12 veterans is gong to finish with us and then no longer take VA insurance because of this. I'm sure she is not the only one.

Response by CSM Private RallyPoint Member made Sep 3 at 2020 5:06 PM

2020-09-03T17:06:24-04:00

Sarah Eischstaedt- How are we ensuring a seamless transition for healthcare as service members transition from the military health system (MHS) to the VA health system as it pertains to the survivors of military sexual trauma (MST)?

Response by SSG J E. made Sep 3 at 2020 8:37 PM

2020-09-03T20:37:10-04:00

What is the best route to start talking about military sexual trauma in order to heal from it?

Response by Col Valerie Taylor made Sep 6 at 2020 11:05 PM

2020-09-06T23:05:13-04:00

I am Colonel (Retired) Valerie Taylor, Hospital Administrator, United States Air Force. I started my career as an E-1 in Basic Military Training at Lackland Air force Base, TX. Some of my 35 years Air Force service (Air National Guard, Traditional Air Force Reserve , IMA and 14 years active duty) are concurrent with my 34 year VHA retirement. My VHA career both on the Administrative and Patient Care side of the spectrum included Local Level, Medical District Level, Regional Level Additional Duty VISN Level and Ad Hoc Staff and Trainer for VACO. I have on several occasions attempted to identify someone who can direct me on how to be considered for the National Women's Advisory Committee. I have been unable to identify the process of application and consideration or a source to discuss how to find the process. I am a 100% disabled female veteran and receive all of my health care in the VA Health Care System. Can you provide me a point of contact? If I need to be reached off line my contact information is below.

[login to see]
[login to see]

Response by SGT Tzena Scarborough made Sep 8 at 2020 3:27 PM

2020-09-08T15:27:34-04:00

I would like to know why of the 4 VetXL events..
1. the times are conflicting.on Facebook and email link saying EST and Central times on the ad and information
2. why only 30 minutes for the first 3 events and 1 hour for this event??
a. there is no time for interaction Q&A..... if it is just a 30 minute presenation just record it....
b. i would think you would want to hear from us
c. there is no place to post on the other events.... Facebook events.. have been turned off.
Thank you, Tzena M. Scarborough
US Army, WAC, Cobra Armament technician, 1976-1983

Response by PVT Mark Zehner made Sep 9 at 2020 6:02 PM

2020-09-09T18:02:07-04:00

Thank you!

Response by SPC Inez Lopez made Sep 10 at 2020 11:32 AM

2020-09-10T11:32:12-04:00

I hope the plan is to address military sexual harassment/assault.

Response by LTC Dixie West made Sep 10 at 2020 1:01 PM

2020-09-10T13:01:46-04:00

I still have not received back pay for the year I signed up for my disability.

Response by PO3 Betty Wiley-Avila made Sep 10 at 2020 1:10 PM

2020-09-10T13:10:27-04:00

We used to have a counselor in the town 12 miles from our house. I was told that funding was taken away and the closest counselor is over 55 miles away. How do we get female counselors back?

Response by PO1 Dee Lee made Sep 10 at 2020 1:42 PM

2020-09-10T13:42:04-04:00

Signed up. Thanks for the heads up!

Response by SSgt Sarahbeth S. made Sep 10 at 2020 2:32 PM

2020-09-10T14:32:04-04:00

Is there going to be a live Q&A video conference on the 30th? If so is there a way to register for it?

Response by PFC Dagmar Youngberg made Sep 11 at 2020 4:47 PM

2020-09-11T16:47:29-04:00

Looking forward to it!

Response by SPC Makissa Lewis made Sep 11 at 2020 9:12 PM

2020-09-11T21:12:09-04:00

Thank you for taking time to do this. I live in Miami-Dade County in Florida. In the tri-county area to include Miami-Dade, Broward Counties there is only one Grant Per Diem transitional housing for just female veterans. Why are there not more? And, how would I go about establishing one? I already founded the 501 (c)(3) nonprofit My Seester for females.

Response by Col Valerie Taylor made Sep 12 at 2020 1:39 AM

2020-09-12T01:39:50-04:00

Does anyone have knowledge of an initiative to start charging all TRICARE recipients and annual fee in 2021...to include TRICARE for LIFE.

Response by CPT Cynthia Koroll, RN, MS, JD made Sep 15 at 2020 4:24 PM

2020-09-15T16:24:57-04:00

I don’t see a link to the 9/15 call. What time zone

Response by MAJ Private RallyPoint Member made Sep 15 at 2020 7:23 PM

2020-09-15T19:23:54-04:00

How and where is the Small Business Guidance being integrated to the transition process for Women Veterans and all Veterans in our current distancing emphasis based environment?

Response by CPT Private RallyPoint Member made Sep 15 at 2020 7:30 PM

2020-09-15T19:30:42-04:00

My name is Mary Jane Gillikin, (M.J.) and I'm a former enlists/OCS Army. Since getting out of the Military I am a 3rd party recruiter that places former Military with the Civilian Sector. I speak frequently about what a sales career really is. Most vets don't understand and it opens many doors for them. I have attached my LinkedIn bio below. I'd love to participate in any webinar on the transition process as well as identifying the different sectors it might make sense to look at. I'm also a keynote speaker for Hyatt International. linkedin.com/in/mgillikin
The best contact number for me is [login to see]

Response by Ava Bradley made Sep 15 at 2020 7:33 PM

2020-09-15T19:33:08-04:00

Surviving wife of SSG Juantrea T. Bradley Sr.
How can the VA education...approve me while I'm in school send me an approval letter for Chapter 33 then then 3 months later deny me because of a mistake they made without payment when I was told by a representative when I called in before submitting my paperwork that I needed to go ahead and do it since my other benefit would run out before I finish school? Then I'm told by 2 higher ups to do appeals and they all get denied like it's my fault!

Response by SSgt Jessica Hamilton made Sep 15 at 2020 7:36 PM

2020-09-15T19:36:47-04:00

Good afternoon. Does the VA currently have Naturopathic providers? Is this an option for community care? The reason I bring this up is because my lab work is “with in normal limits,” not optimal. However, I feel awful all the time with zero energy. Are there other options for us to received proper care? Thank you.

Response by MAJ Rhonda Mangum made Sep 15 at 2020 7:40 PM

2020-09-15T19:40:19-04:00

My name is Rhonda Mangum, and I services in the Army from July 1980 ti Seot 1992 (12 yrs, email: [login to see] .) I have been trying for 2 yrs to obtain my military health service records by several means. I applied thru a DA rep, a VA rep and on my own (SF 180). In Feb 2020 I did receive confirmation that my SF 180 was receive and is being processed. As of this date I have not received any military health records.

Response by 1LT Private RallyPoint Member made Sep 15 at 2020 7:43 PM

2020-09-15T19:43:37-04:00

According to a recent survey, female service members and veterans are 3x more likely to suffer from infertility than our civilian counterparts. Is there going to be an actual study to determine the causes or links to infertility? Additionally, there has been some attention given to hormone imbalances in the male veteran population, but I have found zero resources for female veterans. What, if anything is being done to support our female veterans that have potential hormone imbalances cause by service related exposure, TBI, etc and infertility?

I currently have over 17 years of service, 3 combat deployments. I have had 3 miscarriages in a 12 month period. I’ve done my due diligence, but have found very few resources for female veterans.

Thank you.

Response by SPC Malolo Childress made Sep 15 at 2020 7:51 PM

2020-09-15T19:51:46-04:00

Hello,
I am looking for support in my area for resources for veterans that need assistance with renting apartment. The only thing I found was for homeless veterans, I am a single women veteran that is working but I was wondering if they have any resources for women that can help me find an apartment. Thank you in advance.

Response by SPC Michelle Holmes made Sep 15 at 2020 7:58 PM

2020-09-15T19:58:19-04:00

I am a 100% MST disable veteran. I am presently working for the department of defense in South Korea. I was at airport LAX and had anxiety attack and drop my cat cage, cat out and bite my thumb as i put her back in the cage. I was on my way back to S Korea from leave. I went to us military army hospital and had 5 surgeries to clean the infection out. I received $66,000 hospital bill. Veteran who are oversea have Foreign Veteran Program that pays your bill if it is related to your disability. Which anxiety is related to my disability. VA program will not pay the bill. I have the pay the bill myself. Only health insurance i have is VA foreign program. I do not have the money to pay. Can you help me. Please. Michelle Holmes, SS#2286, [login to see] ., address (PSC444 BOX 1878, APO,AP 96297)

Response by SR Anita Dexter made Sep 15 at 2020 7:58 PM

2020-09-15T19:58:29-04:00

I was promised a LPN certificate went I left. I have written, gone into offices, no one can help me. I am A retired missionary, and its been my life. No one can help me! Why?

Response by PO3 Lisbeth Ortiz Alvarez made Sep 15 at 2020 8:13 PM

2020-09-15T20:13:39-04:00

How can I get help with an appeal. My rating wasn’t changed because my eczema wasn’t spread throughout 70% or more of my body. But in the areas that I do have it it is affecting my everyday life. When I’ve gone to the C & P appointments they don’t even do a thorough check up. It in and out.

Response by SSG Kimberly Wallace made Sep 15 at 2020 8:20 PM

2020-09-15T20:20:34-04:00

How can Women Veterans receive adequate care for health & wellness related to hormones: perimenopause & menopause. I have been trying get help for 2 years and I continually receive baseline labs and nothing else. Thank you for opening this forum and I look forward to all the information shared!

Response by Maj Patricia Mulholland made Sep 15 at 2020 8:48 PM

2020-09-15T20:48:31-04:00

Payment for civilian ER visits is very slow. One they will not pay although it was for the same reason as three others - VA advise nurse told me to call an ambulance and go to ER. VA say they do not have enough info on my visit, but they have been given every piece of paper, including doctor's notes, ekgs, etc. Since this office that handles this at the S.F. VA is not open because of covid -what are my alternatives. I do not have the money to pay the bill or even make payments. Hospital is sending me to collections. I am retired (social security only income) and work part time, but because of covid my cardiologists says I should not do my ride share job. Finally got covid unemployment, but had to pay so many past due bills, there was not enough left to pay them.

Response by SFC Steve Bryant made Sep 15 at 2020 8:51 PM

2020-09-15T20:51:55-04:00

When are you going to have a food given out to Vets ?

Response by CPO Jessica Byard made Sep 15 at 2020 9:19 PM

2020-09-15T21:19:16-04:00

Why do I have to wait at least 7 months for a mammogram in Las Vegas VA? I know another female veteran waiting at least 6 months in Arizona VA. Why aren’t more necessary women’s health services readily available at the VA clinic? I have used the Community Care referral before and I always gets billed and it’s charged incorrectly, literally takes months and many long wait times and phone calls to fix. It’s more stressful than it needs to be. If the VA offered adequate women’s health services this wouldn’t be an issue.

Response by PO3 Samone Lindsey made Sep 15 at 2020 9:22 PM

2020-09-15T21:22:12-04:00

Im a veteran and I suffer from ptsd. Doing daily activities are mentally exhausting to me. I just wanted to know can my husband apply to be my caretaker if he’s a felon?

Response by PO3 Judith Weller made Sep 15 at 2020 9:30 PM

2020-09-15T21:30:59-04:00

How can I manage my mental health with just a pill and isolation?

Response by SGT Natasha Faison - williams made Sep 15 at 2020 9:33 PM

2020-09-15T21:33:43-04:00

Why are women who have served denied service connected compensation due to harassment, discrimination, unwanted sexual advances, denied promotion and racism. Why is this not considered PTSD?

Response by SSG Suzanne Singletary made Sep 15 at 2020 9:56 PM

2020-09-15T21:56:19-04:00

how do I go about getting copy of my medical records

Response by SrA Shanice Braun made Sep 15 at 2020 11:50 PM

2020-09-15T23:50:40-04:00

Why does community health make it so difficult for us to get continued care?

Response by CPL Cynthia Broyles made Sep 16 at 2020 12:29 AM

2020-09-16T00:29:46-04:00

I was diagnosed with triple negative breast cancer in 2018. This form of breast cancer is rare, and it is not associated with estrogen, progesterone, or HER2 (hence triple negative). I have no family history of breast cancer, nor do I carry the BRCA gene. My online research shows that in a 2009 study, doctors at Walter Reed Army Medical Center found that breast cancer rates among military women are "significantly higher" -- that military women are 20% to 40% more likely to get the disease than civilian women in the same age groups. This study is over a decade old. Is any current VA research being conducted to support service-connecting this disease on a presumptive basis when it develops more than a year after discharge?

Response by MAJ Ouida W Harding made Sep 16 at 2020 1:04 AM

2020-09-16T01:04:34-04:00

I do not know how to help a female veteran file for a claim or advise her on confronting the commander about the altercation. She has tried counseling, however it is not beneficial, in fact she is no better after each counseling session. I asked her to cease for now.

Response by Sgt Claudia Boothe made Sep 16 at 2020 1:07 AM

2020-09-16T01:07:27-04:00

Are there services for women dealing with chronic pain diseases beyond medical care? Services to help deal with the daily pain physically and emotionally?

Response by SPC Amber McGee made Sep 16 at 2020 1:40 AM

2020-09-16T01:40:56-04:00

This is for Sara Eichstaedt.

I would like to set up a support group for veteran survivors of violence, near me. But I am having a hard time getting any information on how to make this possible. I have gotten approval from city council to host a survivors support group as long as it stipulates "not professional counselors", I have found a non-religious, well lit, safe place, where women and men would generally feel safe coming.
I live about 90 min from the nearest VA hospital (Iowa City) with a support group system in place. With just the disgusting amount of reported sexual violence cases committed against military personal, I think groups like these would be a pretty big priority. There is also the potential to include a Veteran Trauma Support group.

Response by CPT Heidi Carr made Sep 16 at 2020 7:05 AM

2020-09-16T07:05:37-04:00

Why does a female veteran who is married to an AD soldier get penalized by losing the post 9-11 GI Bill because the spouse stayed on AD for >15 years, putting the female veteran past the15 year window? My husband was in a constant deployment/TDY cycle and I was not able to commit to school. By the time he retired, I could then enroll ( he was home to help with family). By that time, my benefit expires. Congressional reps tell me it will take change in legislation to change the three narrow exceptions. But none of them are willing to pursue. I think this is discrimination to female vets, as we often tend to drop our career to have stable home life
For kids, especially with the optempo in early 2000s after 9/11. I propose a
Vet, married to an AD service member should have additional time added in to their 15 year time limit commensurate with the time the spouse remains on AD.

Response by SPC Theresa Percell made Sep 16 at 2020 7:14 AM

2020-09-16T07:14:32-04:00

I'm disabled and i was turned down for life insurance because of my disabilities is there a life insurance available for me ?

Response by SN Kheidra Brown-wynter made Sep 16 at 2020 8:26 AM

2020-09-16T08:26:49-04:00

Where/whom would i access information from regarding reversing a negative discharge due to military sexually trauma.

Response by SPC Jennea Duran made Sep 16 at 2020 8:35 AM

2020-09-16T08:35:10-04:00

Good Morning. I would like to know what resources are out there for a disabled veteran to assist with opening a business.

Response by PFC Sherrie Pace-Truitt made Sep 16 at 2020 9:31 AM

2020-09-16T09:31:27-04:00

Patty Hayes, Ph.D.
Kathy Hedrick, PhD
Amanda Johnson, MD
LTC Elizabeth Brill
In October 1998 Bernie Sanders addressed The House of Representatives on Multiple Chemical Sensitivities as it regards Gulf War Veterans. Alison Johnson wrote several books regarding. Gulf War Illness and its comorbid conditions of Fibromyalgia, Chronic Fatigue and Chemical Sensitivities is a growing problem with veterans whether they realize it or not. Environmental chemicals are linked to all these syndromes in addition to what ails most Americans. How is Women’s Health Services educating Veterans and employees on environmental hazards in their homes, work, and health & beauty products? With the increasing amount of neurological and hormone positive cancers caused by endocrine disrupting chemicals including fragrances and phthalates, where is the education coming in from practitioners to help veterans live a non-toxic lifestyle and promote clean chemical free living? I have over a 1000 citations on chemicals, including fragrance chemicals, which include their adverse health effects and effects on quality of life. It seems the healthcare workers are not educated on environmental illnesses or environmental toxins as it relates to endocrine disruption and human disease, including cancers. Most VA healthcare workers are oblivious as to what we use in our homes and on our bodies is directly related to neurological, respiratory, and immune system health. The chemicals used in VA buildings directly affect those who work and patron these facilities, including cleaning and personal body products by staff. If the CDC can have a 2009 Indoor Air Quality Policy that promotes Fragrance Free practices then other government entities can do the same. The right to breathe chemical free air is basic human right; the right to create access barriers to those who suffer is a violation of that.

Response by Cpl Kim Merrill made Sep 16 at 2020 9:51 AM

2020-09-16T09:51:38-04:00

Why does it take so long for payments to be received to the caregiver I had surgery over a year ago and had to give the civilian hospital an authorization a second time but now I am getting collection calls and has affected my credit. This may have been discussed before but I have not been on this site previously.

Response by LTC Torrey Mitchell made Sep 16 at 2020 11:06 AM

2020-09-16T11:06:37-04:00

Good Day Honorable Cheryl Mason,
Can someone please help me understand why (Since March 2020 to now) that VA has sent me more than four letters reference my appeal with a 60 or 90 day response time during COVID-19? At the time the person I would have spoke with is not working at the Veterans Affairs office in Fort Worth due to COVID-19. I called the contact number on my letter which they had scheduled a hearing on 16 March 2020. Which I had to reschedule per their guidance and the Texas Commission Representative at Waco Texas. Most office during March thru May were closed and/or now at minimum manning etc. I'm requesting your help with what seems an unfair actions in a time of crisis. Thanks for your assistance. Torrey Mitchell

Response by PO3 Ingrid Washington made Sep 16 at 2020 11:54 AM

2020-09-16T11:54:40-04:00

How do my husband and I who are both vets get help with or claims.we've been getting the run around for three yrs now and we're both in pain

Response by SPC Linda Molinaro made Sep 16 at 2020 12:32 PM

2020-09-16T12:32:31-04:00

Why won't the VA help those of us with either PTSD due to MST or other conditions that prevent us from wearing a mask, obtain an exemption? Nobody realizes that wearing a mask is extremely triggering for myself and my mental and physical state is getting worse rather than better.

Response by SGT Tzena Scarborough made Sep 16 at 2020 12:53 PM

2020-09-16T12:53:11-04:00

why are the events ONLY 30 MINUTES LONG???? there isn't time to address much......except to listen to the speakers... I will be here...

Response by Maj Dayle Pieper made Sep 16 at 2020 1:13 PM

2020-09-16T13:13:41-04:00

Where is the event? I'm at the link, it's 10 min past the start time and just see a grayed out button that says "Starting soon".

Response by HN Emma Lednick made Sep 16 at 2020 2:31 PM

2020-09-16T14:31:12-04:00

i am a vet from the navy 1959 to 1963. I had to get out because I was pg and at the time they would not let me stay. I would have but that is beside the point I was only able to use the purchase of a house but nothing else. at present I need hearing aids. the ones I have do not work and we are living on a fix income. My husband is a ret vet. so all my other medical needs are met. How can I get the vets help me with hearing aids. thank you mrs L.

Response by AB Dee Dee made Sep 16 at 2020 3:16 PM

2020-09-16T15:16:18-04:00

We need a individual in the Syracuse VA that really knows Transgender medications, and what testing needs to be to be done, How often it needs to be done, and what levels need to be maintained.
The physician I saw outside the VA retired. I started using the Endocrine at the VA and realized they do not follow the guidelines of transitioning. I'd like to have my estrogen, and testosterone levels followed up. I would also like to be informed of changes in "Transgender care", and in medications.
Possibly we could have be followed by a secondary physician in any VA facility that could share their knowledge when things change in the transgender field. (Like I just learned, and NEED to have further knowledge of, and also my medicines changed.)

Response by SrA Tina Mejia made Sep 16 at 2020 3:27 PM

2020-09-16T15:27:01-04:00

I need help, I've been through 5 yrs of therapy at which time I lost my job as an RRT at the VA. I was in a really bad place mentally and managed to get a disorderly conduct charge and destruction of property. I went to veterans court and the charges were dissmissed but because I live in AZ, the charges will always show up. I haven't contacted the licensing board for my RRT and have been out of work for 3 yrs now, so my license is almost expired.
I don't know if I will ever be able to work in health care again and that is what my college degree is in.
I don't even know where to begin, to get back into the work force as my mental disability requires a lot of medication, I have problems concentrating and regulating my emotions.

Response by SSgt Jendayi Saada made Sep 16 at 2020 4:06 PM

2020-09-16T16:06:15-04:00

Trying to join but I can’t if I don’t have Facebook apparently. Any tips for getting on the call?

Response by Lt Col Lisa Ciccarelli made Sep 16 at 2020 4:46 PM

2020-09-16T16:46:03-04:00

Given the focus on the "Whole Woman," I was hoping we could get support and insurance coverage for menopausal women experiencing fatigue, weight gain, etc., specifically related to hormone replacement therapy.

Response by SSG Private RallyPoint Member made Sep 16 at 2020 4:49 PM

2020-09-16T16:49:12-04:00

Im a combat vet serve in the Army Nation Guard. I’m getting out of the Guard in a year and tried to get a psychological exam through the VA so I could establish my PTSD and file my disability. I was told by the VA that because I make too much money in my civilian job that I can not use their facilities and was actually billed for having gone to see them. I didn’t Utilize these resources when I returned from my combat tour because I’m a Military Police. Being diagnosed with PTSD at that time would have essentially ended my career. I would have lost my leadership position as well as my ability to compete for rank. Where can I go to get guidance on how to fill out the disability paperwork? I also need information on what type of counseling I need to get PTSD established? I think I’ve had my head in the sand for a while and realized that I’ve missed the boat.

Response by Andi Martinez made Sep 16 at 2020 8:52 PM

2020-09-16T20:52:36-04:00

Please join our first VA Woman Veteran event now on Sept 21st at 1pm ET: https://www.facebook.com/events/ [login to see] 80153

Woman Veterans Series: Advice on Transitioning, Employment and Building Business

Other event by U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs on Monday, September 21 2020 with 198 people interested and 30 people going.

Response by Maj R Descar made Sep 16 at 2020 9:06 PM

2020-09-16T21:06:41-04:00

hello, this is a question for Dr. Patty Hayes, PhD. i live in a very rural community where healthcare is a premium and my only option is a small clinic an hour away. this is the fifth va i have been part of and am confused why the Arkansas rules here are very unfavorable to the veteran, especially since the mission act was instituted. although i have been able to get some community care options, it is very limited and to receive care i have had to drive 95+ miles. my question is five parts: 1) why is it the VA has not reached out to local vendors to create a partnership so folks like me are able to receive decent (local) healthcare? i.e. dental care is not offered locally & the nearest dentist is two+ hours away 2) why do i have to virtually demand i receive an appointment through community care when no va doctor is available for 30 days or more months for a serious issue? 3) why is it when i call my local cboc for an appointment, i have to first speak to a nurse & convince her that i need an appointment, as she is the approval authority for an appointment to be made? 4) because of my disabilities, my husband is my caregiver which does not allow for him to get a job. why are there not programs to assist him as there are for caregivers assisting those with traumatic brain injury or severe mental incapacity? and lastly 5) is champva going to get revamped to make it easier for the dependent using it? for instance, i spoke to Gayla Burrow, who is supposed to be the AR champva rep in my area & she was the most inconsiderate person i ever spoke to, she didn't want to answer my questions but kept referring me to the guide & then literally hung up on me!!!

thank you for your assistance.

Response by SPC Shandelon Guy made Sep 16 at 2020 10:16 PM

2020-09-16T22:16:37-04:00

I would like to know why my VA Primary Care Doctor sends me to a non-VA hospital for an emergency and they admit me. Why do I end up with the bill or what is leftover? I am in pain everyday and in need of Outpatient Surgery. The VA hospital has informed me that if I go outside of them I have to pay for it. They want me to hurry up and wait on them which is getting harder. Please advise?

Response by PFC Miriam Schiro made Sep 17 at 2020 5:33 AM

2020-09-17T05:33:05-04:00

I was disrespected as a woman when I was in the army and Im now a senior and still affected by it because I still cry thinking about it and wished I was savvy enough when I was in the servIce to report what they did to me but I wasn’tsavvy enough didn’t know what to do didn’t know that I could report it and theyTricked me and made me signed a form that I didn’t know it was to kick me out of the service and they kicked me out upon that. I WAS ALMOST SPEC4 AND I WAS LOOKING FORWARD TO THAT BUT THEY TRICKED ME AND KICKED ME OUT BECAUSE I WAS A PREGNANT FEMALE

Response by PFC Miriam Schiro made Sep 17 at 2020 5:35 AM

2020-09-17T05:35:45-04:00

Another thing I want to talk about is a sergeant that tried to rape me AND MY MY LIFE MISERABLE AND FEARFUL THE WHILE TIME I was in the military I WAS SI STUPID I HATE MYSELF THAT I DIDN’T KNOW WHAT TO DO UNTIL NOW THAT I’M A SENIOR AND STILL HURT about it THAT’STRSUMATIZING

Response by PFC Miriam Schiro made Sep 17 at 2020 5:43 AM

2020-09-17T05:43:12-04:00

Another thing when they tricked me and kicked me out of the military 6 month early I was a PFC almost a spec 4. At that time there was a preg female discrimination going on and they were kicking out pregnant females left and right and I happenned to be one of the victim and still traumatized from it BUT THEY SNATCHED MY STRIPES AWAY AND DEMOTED ME DOWN TO PVT I WAS INNOCENT I DIDN’T DO NO WRONG

Response by PFC Miriam Schiro made Sep 17 at 2020 5:46 AM

2020-09-17T05:46:31-04:00

I was looking 4ward to become a spec 4 my goal was to AT LEAST make it up to Sargent BUT THEY DID ME WRONG AND TOOK THAT DREAM AWAY FROM ME UPON THEIR EVIL DISCRIMINATION AGAINST PREGNANT WOMEN

Response by PO3 Patricia Miner made Sep 17 at 2020 2:10 PM

2020-09-17T14:10:48-04:00

I have two questions. First I'd like to know if there is a way to find out the number of veterans from my first base (1980-1983) who are suffering neurological problems from our exposure to chlordane, arsenic and lead. There are no treatment options for me because very little research was done on the effects of chlordane which is a nerve agent. My central nervous system is being destroyed and it would be a help if there was a way for people exposed to discuss any symptoms they have and treatment options they've found.

My second question is about pain control options. I understand the VA will not prescribe opioids. My problem is I'm allergic to aspirin, NSAIDS and prednisone. The only treatments available to me are acupuncture, cymbalta or muscle injections of cortisone type drugs which I'm allergic too. I'm already taking gabapentin for nerve pain and nortriptyline for migraines. Adding cymbalta will only suppress my central nervous symptom more and that is something I'm unwilling to do. Acupuncture also isn't something I want to try because it interferes with the central nervous system. I've been diagnosed with systemic central nervous system poisoning, systemic neuropathy, neuropathy in both eyes, blindness in one eye, total loss of my left vestibular nerve, a pineal cyst, Meneire's disease, probable seizures, etc. If none of the treatments offered by the are appropriate for me why won't the VA pay for an appointment at a pain clinic in the community? I've broken every bone in both feet, torn the ligaments in both ankles, destroyed both knees, just had a fusion of L4 and L5 and need one of L4 and L3, broke my left thumb off my hand, etc. I have chronic joint, bone and connective tissue pain on top of pain from neuropathy. It is inexcusable to expect me to pay for pain clinic treatment when there is nothing the VA can offer to help me. Is there a way to at least appeal this denial? I know I can't be the only veteran experiencing this problem. Is it something the VA is considering addressing?

Response by PO2 Gennail Clark-Owens made Sep 17 at 2020 3:22 PM

2020-09-17T15:22:39-04:00

Why is it so hard for Women to get claims approved in the South? i have friends that do not have the issues we have with getting the support they need for filing claims and appeals. The majority of our claims are denied when they appear to be cut and dry to us. I served as a Seabee in the Navy (Heavy Construction) I filed for spinal injury of which i have had two disc fusions now and have a bracket and screws down my neck. I was denied because i had no issues while i was on active duty but i stayed 16 years active reserve after the five years doing the same job. Heavy equipment operator, field construction, weapons training, plumbing, welding, framing, concrete pouring, heavy lifting. Im older now so of course these things are going to show up.
Thank you.
Gennail Clark-Owens, USN, USNR Retired

Response by CPL Annetta Mayfield made Sep 17 at 2020 4:15 PM

2020-09-17T16:15:09-04:00

what do you think about alternative energy?

Response by SPC Ayesha Arline made Sep 18 at 2020 9:18 AM

2020-09-18T09:18:36-04:00

All of my claims were denied due to VA not be able to locate my medical records. I have contacted HR for records to no avail, no one even responds to me. How can I appeal my legitimate claims with no access to my medical records? I ETS'd in 2005, how is possible that my medical records are just gone?

Response by SN Vicki Woodard made Sep 20 at 2020 3:03 PM

2020-09-20T15:03:34-04:00

We need more in house Women's patient rehab beds. I was recently not admitted to the VA hospital for inpatient care because I was a Woman. They had 3 beds available, but only for Men. I have had a huge problem with this in my 34 years in the VA system.

Response by TSgt Linda Assenco made Sep 20 at 2020 5:10 PM

2020-09-20T17:10:04-04:00

I have been forced to be an advocate for myself within this VA system and have filed complaints with the VA Joint Commission Office and the White House Veterans Hotline because of the many issues of inadequate care from various providers and offices like the mental health clinics and the main hospital phone line which are not being answered and are left ringing for a very long time. I also wanted to address the fact that primary care providers have been running their clinics like we are on a assembly line and have less than 5 minutes to talk to or get to know their patients. I would stay almost 25 to 45 minutes waiting in the examine room after being called back to see the provider is very unacceptable care and waste of my time. It is obvious that the high turnover rate of my ever changing providers and them rushing veterans in and out are really a direct result of the VA Director"s inability and failure to hire enough providers so that we can receive the good quality care that we deserve . Also the level of care is really lacking and at this VA, appointments notices are rarely sent out to the veterans and written notification of blood workup needing completion before annual examination are not accomplished. To add to my many disappointments which has led me to seek and trust non-VA care providers have been the experience of being treated differently or ignored because of my diagnosis of having a mental illness. Providers and especially VA employees view my mental illness as some sort of negative stigma in a way they interact with you minimizing your feelings, your pain, and your plea for help in a condescending manner as if you are not entitled to compassionate and quality care. I will give you two examples, and this VA has heard these complaints plenty of times but no one did one thing about it, so I continue to tell my story. My therapist of over 10 years one day in the middle of our session abruptly ended our therapy session for good as she would be changing her job to work tele therapy instead of individual or group therapy. Her excitement in conveying this to me cause me to only silence my feelings as well as downplaying the panic that I initially felt that this was our last session without any warning or preparation to understand the lost of someone that I trusted and confided in for so many years. It was a devastating blow and I did end up being hospitalized because it was hurtful but more so unprofessional and unethical. What was even worse is that my therapist department head and supervisor were aware of the incident and no one and I mean no one said anything to her in the manner that she ended our therapy. That was trust out the window. Second incident, I was hospitalized once and an CNA who prepared me for admission saw that I had too many credit cards to her liking and reported it to the social worker on the Psych ward. Upon my release, the social worker inquired whether or not I was able to handle myself financially and asked if i needed a fiduciary in which i replied "no". About a month after discharge from the hospitalization, I was looking on E-Benefits website and found that Winston Salem VA Board Officials were about to meet to assigned me a fiduciary. She was supported my MHCIM Psychriatrist and the MHCHM Manager who did not take my therapist and MHICM social worker word for it as they dealt with me on a more personal level and knew I had never displayed the inability to handled my finances and was in anyway incompetent to managing my money. Here, I had to fight for myself and ask the board to hold rending a decision and allow me to present a defense that the entire allegation was absurd. My letter to the board explained that I had just sold a home and then closed on a new condo the same day and I forward them a copy of my credit report which was excellent with zero late payments. Needless to say, the board convene and render the request for a fiduciary as never warranted and the social worker went against the Psych Ward Doctor opinion that she submitted behind his back. Again, nothing happen to this CNA and this Social Worker for arbitrarily feeling that no one with a mental illness should have so many credit cards. As a result, I requested to terminate the MHCIM program and falsely said that I was good but I was not, because I knew I could not trust these very people who had no basis to collaborate that having credit cards or going cruises is something a person with a mental illness could not handle with any problem financially. Here again negative stigma that I endure because of my mental illness diagnosis. So, I've shared with you my own personal experiences that makes me question VA providers, makes me mistrust them, and when they do wrong to a veteran they are not accountable or not corrected for their misconduct. Also, I was a whistleblower who lost her career after 17.9 years and the last 6 of them I fought up the chain of command from base level to headquarters, and to the Department of Defense. as being reprised and harassed for filing a complaints against my commanders and other officials who wanted me to fudge paperwork, who wanted me ignore racial and sexist profiling and mistreatment and who never stop writing to higher headquarters about my experience and my grieveances. I upheld the core value that I took a oath when I joined the military. But The military essentially said they could not protect me as a whistleblower and they medical boarded me and gave me 2 weeks to outprocess and I received no service award for 17.9 years of excellence I gave the military and no retirement ceremony, not even a so-long...hope your life gets better... from my commander and first sergeant. That was my military experience and today It feels like I am re-living it by the way Im treated at the VA.

Response by LCpl Laurie Lokken Brown made Sep 20 at 2020 5:29 PM

2020-09-20T17:29:22-04:00

Why did it take the Marine Corps nearly 40 years to tell me about the Water contamination at Camp Le Jeune? I had multiple tumors in my reproductive organs shortly after I left there that had Doctors baffled. It caused to not be able to have children. Of course by the time the Marine Corps informed me of the contamination condition I was exposed to, the Drs were dead, the hospitals (multiple surgeries) have long since destroyed records. I applied for compensation from the VA but was denied because I did not have the written records to prove it. I do have signed statements from 2 acquaintances that were knowledgeable about my surgeries but the VA refused to use them as proof. Thanks USMC. Thanks VA.

Response by CPL Brandy Eddy made Sep 20 at 2020 6:01 PM

2020-09-20T18:01:47-04:00

I have a question but I'm not sure how to ask it on here there is no way to ask

Response by MAJ Theresa Ford made Sep 20 at 2020 8:28 PM

2020-09-20T20:28:08-04:00

Dear Deputy Secretary Powers,
My name is Theresa Ford and I retired from the Army in 2018 and have a problem that, by regulation, only the VA can help me with. In January, 2013, I deployed to Afghanistan and two months later suffered a bad fall. I knew that I hurt my ankle, but decided to stay in theater because I didn’t want to leave my comrades after the Marine Commander had specifically requested an Afpak Hand JAG come to the district, and because I was the only person besides the translator that could speak the language. I fell a few more times as my ankle was weakened after the first fall. I redeployed in November, 2013 and learned in December that I severed the ATFL ligament in my ankle. The following month I was scheduled to attend a mandatory Army school for 4 months. After I finished this school in April, I had orders sending me to Florida and reported to my next assignment in May. I began physical therapy in June which continued, along with other conservative treatments, into early 2016 when my podiatrist determined that I would need ankle reconstruction surgery. By this time, I was due to PCS again and decided to have the surgery once I got settled at my next assignment as the surgery was debilitating and had a long recovery period. I had surgery in November, 2017 and filed a claim under the TSGLI program, which was denied. My claim was denied, not because I didn’t meet the definition of a traumatic injury, but because I didn’t have my ankle surgery within two years of my injury. I appealed and informed them that it would have been impossible for me to have surgery within two years of the fall for the reasons I just mentioned. My appeal was denied and I appealed a second time. The second appeal was denied on the same basis as the first. My third appeal is due in January, 2021. I first spoke to my Congressman, who informed me that it would take an Act of Congress to change the 2-year time limitation. I learned later that that was not the case, as Congress delegated to the Secretary of the VA the responsibility to set the time limit: “for each qualifying loss, the Secretary shall prescribe, by regulation, a period of time . . .” 38 U.S.C. 1980A(c)(2)(B). The VA regulation, 38 C.F.R. 9.20(d)(4), sets forth the current time period of 2 years. The 2 year time limitation is overly restrictive and arbitrary, as it is based on an insurance regime used in the civilian world. I suffered my injury in Musa Qala district, just one of many deadly places in Afghanistan, and don’t believe that military life can be equated to civilian life. For these reasons, I respectfully request that you change the language of the VA regulation from “two years of the traumatic injury” to something more reasonable that takes into account the realities of military life and combat, such as “two years from the date of diagnosis of the traumatic injury or date surgery is medically indicated, whichever is later, unless good cause exists otherwise, including military exigencies, that prevent proper diagnosis and treatment of the injury.” My foot surgeon informed me that even if I had been medically evacuated from Afghanistan when the injury happened, surgery is never the first treatment option. Additionally, I have cervical spine issues and disc compression in my neck as a result of the fall, as one of my discs has pushed into another one when I hit the ground with all of my gear on my back. If I need surgery, which is possible, I would similarly be barred from filing a TSGLI claim for that injury. I don’t believe that all injuries manifest themselves in a limited 2 year period of time, which is another reality that the current regulation ignores. Thank you for your time and for your concern for veterans like me.

Response by PVT Theresa Hutchison made Sep 20 at 2020 8:41 PM

2020-09-20T20:41:53-04:00

Will wwe ever get dental care?

Response by PVT Theresa Hutchison made Sep 20 at 2020 8:44 PM

2020-09-20T20:44:24-04:00

Need help on getting the attack on me recognized, every though I was scared to report when it happened 1984

Response by COL Lisa MacGuire made Sep 20 at 2020 9:34 PM

2020-09-20T21:34:00-04:00

I have been prescribed 2 meds for women's health that the VA formulary does not include. When is the VA going to catch up to what women need to maintain health after 55 YO? I have to pay outside pharmacies since the VA does not carry the 2 vital meds for my hormones and slow thyroid: EST-ring (estradiol vaginal ring - 2 mg); and Armour thyroid tabs (thyroid,Pork) 90 mg and 15 mg. These should be available to us without the extra personal expense and should be within the VA system for all retired and veteran military women many of whom need this kind of care! Elizabeth A MacGuire (COL, Ret) US Army

Response by Anita Washington made Sep 20 at 2020 9:58 PM

2020-09-20T21:58:19-04:00

Can a sexual trauma victim receive disability and how do they apply?

Response by Sgt Jaqueline Newborn made Sep 21 at 2020 8:05 AM

2020-09-21T08:05:36-04:00

I have an outside lawyer working on my case and don't think they understand me and what's important to me. Can I fire them and when I do where do I go to get help with my claim? I tried to talk to them about my sexual trauma and they don't want to hear about it they day it's part of your PTSD claim. But no one knows what happened to me. It may not be a big deal but it matters to me. Thanks

Response by Sgt Carol Patterson made Sep 21 at 2020 9:55 AM

2020-09-21T09:55:08-04:00

Why has my Women’s Health Doctor been changed 7 times in six years?

Response by SGT Laura Rosenau made Sep 21 at 2020 9:57 AM

2020-09-21T09:57:57-04:00

Why is it that Dental is allowed to deny us Community Care when we absolutely qualify (live more than 30 miles from nearest VA that has dental, etc). I have been fighting with them for over 3 years now to either get community care or for them to actually fix my teeth. I have 2 bad implants (that THEY put in, and both have broken in my jaw) and because of the way 1 of them broke and wobbled, it caused the molar in front of it to completely break at the gum line. They refuse to do anything about any of it, and I am rated 100% disabled. Most of the practitioners are male in that clinic and I feel like they just dismiss me as a woman veteran... It feels VERY discriminatory in that clinic! I have gone to patient advocate office SEVERAL times but they can't or don't do anything. Neither does the director there.
I want to know what is going to be done about it? Because denying veterans proper care was supposed to have changed a long time ago and denying women veterans proper care is supposed to be illegal...

Response by PO3 Victoria Colquitt made Sep 21 at 2020 10:12 AM

2020-09-21T10:12:12-04:00

If I’m 100% service connected disabled/ unemployable is there any money I can make above my disability check?

Response by Capt Leslie Ridlon made Sep 21 at 2020 11:05 AM

2020-09-21T11:05:31-04:00

I find it difficult to resolve a problem in the VA system. At our VA we cannot talk directly to the director everything must go through the patient advocate. Some matter, to me does not seem appropriate for the patient advocate, but I don't see a way to skip this step. It used to be that there was a woman's veteran contact person who was outside of the patient advocate. Why did this change? Could you consider re-evaluating this organizational structure?

Response by SPC Charlee Brazier made Sep 21 at 2020 12:24 PM

2020-09-21T12:24:24-04:00

I have a question . I’ve been in the VA system for nearly 30 years . During that time I have experienced many VA facilities allowing veterans with PTSD to start their own groups outside of the VA. Simply because they ran out of space and personnel .

I have said each time I witness this happening that it’s NOT a good idea. I knew someone who was assaulted by a male veteran in the group who had severe mental issues and a heroin addiction . It’s so unsafe to even suggest this.

I think that veterans with PTSD should NOT be influenced to form groups outside the VA when they came their to be seen by “professional.”

Veterans in crisis don’t have the tools to form a support group outside of the VA on their own.

It is a dangerous suggestion and I would like to know how this can be addressed and changed .

Response by CPT Renee Copeland made Sep 21 at 2020 12:35 PM

2020-09-21T12:35:31-04:00

Yes I am interested in the Q&A that will be held on 30 Sept 2020 and I have a question?
The ugly truth about racial inequity of minority veteran in the civilian workplace. Suggestions on how to start a fair and balance system for promotion of minority military veteran?
I applied for a supervisory position, but was not hired. I am a black probation officer who holds a master’s degree, and have worked over 14 years at the agency. I have had the privilege to work in almost every position within the agency and have built an outstanding rapport with local court judges, clerks, and other community leaders (who are willing to speak of my character and abilities to lead). I was told I was not selected for the position because "I was not a best fit”. A white female under 40 years old was hired for the supervisor position, but had no experience, no advance degree and was not at all familiar with this jurisdiction’s stakeholders.
I am passionate about helping today’s youth to become accountable and productive citizens in their community. However, I cannot continue to effectively do my job with such unjustified negative scrutiny of my work performance and character because I share a different point of view than management. I have discussed with upper management about what must happen for me to advance and both of them acknowledged that I am qualified but not the “best fit". What is that a new code word for discrimination? In this pandemic and epidemic of racial up rise, when is enough, enough? Now what suggestions can this military community offer for this veteran to be heard and move forward?

Response by CPL Jessica Castro made Sep 21 at 2020 1:18 PM

2020-09-21T13:18:18-04:00

I am trying to open my own small business. An outdoor shooting range actually and I'm having a hard time finding any women veteran new business loans or scholarship information. Or maybe just disabled veteran loans or scholarships, grants? I have my entire business plan done and ready but now I need to funding. I'm not sure if I should just go to a bank and apply for a regular small business loan or if there are better options for me out there. Most local organizations ask for money to help you with that information as well. I've already spent thousands of my own dollars trying to get everything done for my business plan so I don't want o keep spending money if I don't have to. Thanks!

Response by PO2 Amanda Morel made Sep 21 at 2020 1:41 PM

2020-09-21T13:41:38-04:00

Does the VA offer grants for small businesses or only loans?

Response by SPC Charlee Brazier made Sep 21 at 2020 2:39 PM

2020-09-21T14:39:40-04:00

I have another comment to Patty Hayes, Chief Officer of the Womens Health Services. I just relocated from Clarksville, TN to Winter Springs Florida and have been told I can’t get health care from my nearest VA at Lake Nona’s Womens Clinic or otherwise because “their not accepting any new patients .”

What are we suppose to do when this happens?

I haven’t been in a “women’s clinic” in a number
of years and I have several female related medical issues .

The same thing happened to me when I arrive in Tennessee 6 years ago. It took phone calls to the Whitehouse to get proper treatment.

And everywhere I go it’s made known that the VA Healthcare system is short of doctors .

Where does that leave us Veterans ?

Response by SGT Beverly Seratt made Sep 21 at 2020 2:49 PM

2020-09-21T14:49:15-04:00

How does a women veteren get seen for hormonal and pregnancy issue are they covered under the womens health program?
Thank you
Sgt Seratt

Response by SPC Patricia Williams made Sep 21 at 2020 2:57 PM

2020-09-21T14:57:07-04:00

Why isn't there any inpatient & outpatient treatment/support clinics for women who are & have experienced domestic violence?? There use to be in GYN clinics but no more

Response by PV2 Emily Pence Quillen made Sep 21 at 2020 3:48 PM

2020-09-21T15:48:53-04:00

There are a lot of female veterans that have been diagnosed with PTSD due to MST. What is the VA doing to offer specific treatment for the female veterans? 90% of those female veterans prefer no to have to go to the same facility as male veterans. I know that there are some treatment facilities specifically for female veterans, however this isn't a constant in every state.

Response by Capt Dr. Pat Engelhardt made Sep 21 at 2020 5:54 PM

2020-09-21T17:54:42-04:00

Greetings, Deputy Secretary Powers, and distinguished panel,
1. What is your best estimate of when a woman's uterus will be acknowledged as an organ covered under the military claims for disability? Example, if a woman was raped on active duty and the rape caused her to become sterile. Or if a woman was raped on active duty and the GYN surgeon who tried to fix the damage, ruined her ability to conceive, permanently due to malpractice. I am open to discussing this privately, if you like.
2. I am told this issue is up before Congress, is this true?
Respectfully,
Dr. Pat Engelhardt, PhD
USAF Military Veteran

Response by SSgt Ajhadriel Galbreath made Sep 21 at 2020 5:59 PM

2020-09-21T17:59:28-04:00

1. Background: In ViSN #15, This is a "Dred Scott State Supreme Court Decision (Black People are not Human)" type of Environment (still today). Healthcare quality doesn't exist, it's more like "Medical Apartheid". I have a medical need for a credentialed Neuro-Opthalmologist. There's not a credentialed one in this VISN or the state (Community Care). Therefore I researched and located a Neuro-Opthalmologist (Dr. Randy Kardon who works at the VAMC Medical Center and at the nearby Iowa City University Eye Center ) ...a different VISN (Iowa City, Iowa):

2. My Question is: why is it so abnormally difficult for veteran patients to scheduled and transferred to that needed specialty either from one VISN to another or via Community Care? Your Policy and Procedure isn't thorough enough. If you're sending a patient to specialty care in another healthcare system, this includes transporting the patient there as well.

3. I did this as one of my subdepartments in the 1980s. We transported patients around the world. However this VISN doesn't know how to transport patients between VISNs, for Doctor's appointments. There's more on this topic regarding very ignorant employees. I'm not their slave, they get paid to work for Veterans. I need help with this.

4. The last part of this Question includes this background: My Health issue also includes how the VA Healthcare System is antiquated.Veterans Administration must include the " 5th Element of Health -Pulsed ElectroMagnetic Field Therapy. Why? Because, "Microwave Frequencies are Classified as Class 2B Carcinogen by World Health Organization (WHO) with The "International Agency for Research in Cancer" (IARC) which consisted of 30 Scientists from 14 Countries in 2011. AND The Second Significant Study was a $4.5 Million dollar study done by the United States Air Force (My Branch) way back in 1984, published in 1992) and finally republished online in 2005. The study showed the effects of a 2.4 GHz microwave radiation over 24 months with rats. The Results showed a 16% increase in benign tumors, a 100% increase in metastatic Tumors and a 260% increase in primary tumors.

4. So the final part of the question is: Why would I have to do all of this research myself and be shunned when I explain this to VA related doctors, when doctors should have been explaining this and diagnosing us properly as opposed to misdiagnosing, drug pimping and murdering us.

Our Brains and bodies have been fried by Cell Phone Towers, Cell Phones, Beepers, Satellite Dishes, Wi-Fi, Radios in helmets etc. There are books by Doctors on this topic.

Please provide information on how I can further discuss these very important topics with. I need to send photos and documentation.

Thank you.

Response by SFC Patricia JANE Babcock made Sep 21 at 2020 6:23 PM

2020-09-21T18:23:16-04:00

Hello COL Powers, as you know my volunteer mission is as a Veterans Benefits Educator. is locked nearly as tightly to the internet as the VA outreach efforts outside of major cities. Since women were not even recognized as members of the military until 1948 and more than 57% of the more than 1.2 million female veterans didn't know they were eligible for VA benefits. And I'm speculating a large portion of them were pre-1948, peacetime, or rural, I question the VA effort to really reach them. With well over half of all our fellow veterans being Vietnam and earlier, homeless, non-tech savvy, very rural with limited to no net access, or so limited financial as to not be able to afford the internet, why isn't VA using National Public Radio or the Public Broadcast System to reach and teach?

Granted some will not even see this but family and friends might. They may be the medical or financial care coordinators and guide the veterans to their Accredited Veterans Service Officer who can freely assist in get the application right the first time. Besides word of mouth can be a good thing when so many of us know what incredible impact VA can have on the lives of veterans and their widow(er)s.

I need to ask you the 2 questions that I always received a no to in my 11.5+ years as a CVSO: Do you know that ALS is a Presumptive? Do you know that Wartime Veterans, under 65 permanently disabled by non-service injury/illness or simply over 65, and their widow(er)s with no age or health requirements, may be eligible for Wartime Pension funds?

Response by Lt Col Felicia Mohr made Sep 21 at 2020 6:35 PM

2020-09-21T18:35:47-04:00

I think female veterans would really benefit from learning about Women's Health Physical Therapy. It includes Pre and post natal care as well as dysfunctions of continence and pelvic pain. This is my area of specialty as a Physical Therapist and I treat veterans with these conditions. I would be happy to provide a presentation for Women's Veterans Series.

Response by PO1 Allie Miller made Sep 21 at 2020 7:09 PM

2020-09-21T19:09:44-04:00

When pursuing the HPV vaccine through the VA it was apparent that the organization is very resistant to vaccinating anyone over the age of 26, even though the CDC has expanded the age range to 45. As a single woman in my 30s, I have certainly been exposed to at least one of the 100+ different strains of HPV, but I have not developed any signs of cervical cancer and I believe it is a reasonable request to be protected from potentially contracting a more dangerous strain in the future. My request to my Primary Care Dr. was denied before I went to the Women's Health Clinic where I was told that if I had not had too many partners, say 10, they may be able to approve the vaccine. I gave them an arbitrary number and was able to attain the vaccine. How can they say that someone who has had more partners is less deserving of the vaccine if they have not contracted the 9 strains of HPV that can be protected against? I don't know any men who have pursued the vaccine for comparison, but this seems like clear slut-shaming and discrimination by the military/government against women.

Response by Sgt Rowena Howard made Sep 22 at 2020 12:43 PM

2020-09-22T12:43:58-04:00

When you file a claim for MST, why does it keep getting routed for denied for more information causing you to have to re-live that incident over and over again. How is that fair? Have the people sitting on the panels ever wondered why suffers of this type of humiliation keep quiet so they dont have to go through this additional torture?

Response by Sgt Lynne Michaels made Sep 22 at 2020 2:12 PM

2020-09-22T14:12:04-04:00

How do I find help in filling out my MST claim? I go to the Long Beach CA VA.

Response by SGT Loretta Hudson made Sep 22 at 2020 7:50 PM

2020-09-22T19:50:36-04:00

Sgt Loretta Hudson. I am retired Army suffering with Alopecia, We are allowed a cranial Prosthesis once a year. But we are sent to places that have a hook-up from the employee. We don't receive the funds to purchase our wigs it goes straight to the person that the VA employee send it to, it's a friendship that we can't seem to get around. My question we get our clothing allowance from the same clinic , but we can't get our prothesis allowance directly to us. The person that approves the cranial is a vet also. But do not represents the vet but the friendship. The contractor gets the money and we never get the wigs on time or sometimes says she deliver it , But the VA won't take the vet words. Please someone contact me . This is not right

Response by PO2 Joan Fenley made Sep 22 at 2020 8:37 PM

2020-09-22T20:37:22-04:00

I would like to see if the VA would support a regular weekly zoom meeting with a qualified clincher for group MST therapy. There are no groups meeting right now and a weekly zoom meeting could and would be very helpful.

Response by TSgt Sheneida Lee made Sep 22 at 2020 9:15 PM

2020-09-22T21:15:19-04:00

I have a service-connected infertility diagnosis due to breast cancer while I was deployed. My cancer was very aggressive so I wasn’t able to save my eggs prior to chemotherapy and radiation. The VA covers 3 rounds of IVF for veterans with service-connected infertility diagnoses, but it doesn’t authorize the use of donor eggs. That excludes women like me who had to make a life and death decision to not save my eggs. There was a bill named H.R. 955 introduced to the House of Representatives in 02/2019 but it hasn’t moved since. Is there any way you can reach out to help push the bill through ? Or are there any situations where a waiver to the exclusion of donor eggs I can pursue? I was diagnosed at 38; I’m now 43 and I’ve been pushing, calling, and emailing everyone I could because I don’t have many years left to carry a child so this bill passing or some sort of waiver is EXTREMELY important to me. My greatest desire is the have a child, and it breaks my heart that serving my country caused my cancer and destroyed my dream to have a child.

Response by Cpl Thuy Tran made Sep 23 at 2020 1:19 PM

2020-09-23T13:19:37-04:00

Hello, I missed the first couple of meeting because I have online class to attend. I really need to speak to a specialist who can answer my questions. I was rated 100% permanent 7 years ago. If I get married, what if any benefits would my spouse receive? Thank you for any help getting my question to the right person.

Response by Cpl Salem Zahn made Sep 23 at 2020 8:59 PM

2020-09-23T20:59:21-04:00

I’ve been waiting for two years to get an answer from claims regarding a refund check that my attorney couldn’t accept! I’ve sent the correct forms and called numerous times and still no refund of about 8,600.00!
It shouldn’t be taking this long and the attorney even wrote a letter stating why he couldn’t receive that fee amount!

Response by SFC Carol Braden made Sep 23 at 2020 9:08 PM

2020-09-23T21:08:10-04:00

Tried to get care are the VA women clinic everything I was told would be done was not on my first visit, in fact most of it was turned so I had to do it myself, like get my medical records send to clinic. I started Feb 2020 to get my medications from VA. It has be a fight to whole way and I still do not have one of them. The one I do not have yet is not on the formality, the two that is on the list I can not take, one I am allergic the other interacts with one of my other medications. PCP has not did the paperwork required to get my medication I can take(was told it was going to be done). It is 7 months and the paperwork has not be completed for me to get my medication. I can not get status on getting the med and no one will answer my questions on the portal. How can I a new PCP in a totally different clinic? Tried to file a complaint and patient relations just wanted to return to the doctor and clinic that will not do anything. Plus one of the medications I take for blood pressure was just up and changed the way I take it from twice a day to just once a day. Well that send my blood pressure to stroke levels had to take my emergency medications because of the change. Why was the medications changed?

Response by 1st Lt Barbara Thurber made Sep 24 at 2020 1:31 PM

2020-09-24T13:31:25-04:00

What is being done in Women's health for older women veterans who are post menopausal?

Response by CPL V Yanen made Sep 24 at 2020 1:32 PM

2020-09-24T13:32:55-04:00

Why is it that mature male veterans, regardless of medical and mental health history, can get Viagra AND Testosterone, yet female veterans cannot get Biomedical Synthetic Pellets, Estrogen AND Testosterone, bc we NEED both. I had to go outside the VA and have this done to relieve menopause symptoms I've had since 2013. And yes, I have a medical and mental health history however, the pellets WORKED and helped me with very low risk!! And what about the sexual health of menopausal female veterans?????? We need testosterone, just as the men do!!!!! I'm sick if hearing, "I'm sorry we can't do that". The pellets last 4 to 6 months and the cost out of pocket is $400+. I'm 100% disabled and dealing with my PTSD issues is hard enough then dealing with years if menopausal symptoms is BS!!!

Response by PO2 Gennail Clark-Owens made Sep 24 at 2020 2:58 PM

2020-09-24T14:58:36-04:00

Im not sure if I posted my Question on this forum before or not but I have not had any success with filing a claim with service connected disability for spinal stenosis. I had surgery 13 years ago on my cervical spine and had to repeat it in 2019 this time more intensive to include my entire C4- C7. I have a bracket and screws, lots of nerve damage and I was told that I will be left with chronic pain and that's just the way it will be theres nothing else the surgeons can do. I worked construction in the Navy as a Seabee, everything from Heavy equipment operator, plumbing, concrete framing, weapons/combat training, welding yet I was denied service connected disability for my condition, please tell how this is allowed.

Response by PO3 Constance Graham made Sep 25 at 2020 1:33 PM

2020-09-25T13:33:37-04:00

I want a seat at the table. I want to feel safe going into the VA. I do not.

Response by Sgt Diane E. made Sep 29 at 2020 10:11 AM

2020-09-29T10:11:22-04:00

Hello, I have PTSD,MST, major depressive disorder, COPD, and substance problems. I was under Tennessee Valley's Care until 7/2018. Now I'm in NC and about to break. I do not trust the psych dept. here and am off my meds, back on street drugs and I hate myself. I am virtually homeless and the only reason I'm still here on earth is Princess, my Yorkie. I inquired the about an intensive inpatient MST program and was told...It wasn't an option for me. Why NOT? It happened in 1980-1983. Am I too damaged for VA care?

Response by SrA Jessica Durst made Sep 30 at 2020 2:56 PM

2020-09-30T14:56:46-04:00

According to "CFR 1332 FERTILITY EVALUATION AND TREATMENT," the women's veterans call center, the brochure which can be found here

https://www.womenshealth.va.gov/docs/InfertilityBrochure_FINAL_508.pdf

and the fact that I have previous held an infertility consult all stipulate that "all enrolled and eligible Veterans may be provided with infertility services regardless of service connection, sexual orientation, gender identity, gender expression, relationship, or marital status" directives go on to state that these services include

Examples of Infertility Services for All Female Veterans
• Infertility assessments and counseling
• Laboratory testing
• Imaging services such as ultrasounds and X-rays
• Hormonal therapies
• Surgical correction
• Genetic counseling and testing
• Fertility medications
• Artificial and intrauterine insemination
• Tubal ligation reversal

However my VA has spent the past 6 months arguing that I do not qualify for any infertility related services because they are conflating the restriction provisioned for IVF as a restriction for all infertility services. The issue is that I am not legally married although have been in a common-law arrangement since 2011, he is listed as my VA dependent, this has been thoroughly evaluated twice and it has been found that he does in fact qualify.
This however is besides the point I also have a 50% service connected rating partially for infertility.
Again not really relevant as we are not asking for IVF, we are asking for a General Infertility consult.
I have contacted my senator, OIG, the White House no one is able to help me all they have done is inquiries.
The buck stops every time with a new provider in Office of Community Care. My PCM and OBGYN put in consults and she denies them on the premise that I am not legally married...
Infertility you acquired because of your service is difficult enough, but this is just beyond the pale.
Is there anyone driving?? How can I possible get through to a system who refuses to read their own literature?
We have been unsuccessfully trying to start a family for nearly 8 years and I will be 40 in January (so time is running out) it specifically states in the 1332 that infertility treatment will be expedited, we started pursing treatment in 2018 and although gained authorization, had the consult expire and be revoked before we could even get in one IUI (which we are now on the hook to pay for)

Any assistance would be greatly appreciated

InfertilityBrochure_FINAL_508.pdf

Response by Andi Martinez made Sep 30 at 2020 3:02 PM

2020-09-30T15:02:36-04:00

Welcome to the Q&A chat for Women Veterans with the Department of Veterans Affairs! Please post your questions. We will do our best to respond to all your questions!

Response by Sara Eichstaedt made Sep 30 at 2020 3:03 PM

2020-09-30T15:03:52-04:00

Hello! My name is Sara Eichstaedt with VHA’s Office of Mental Health & Suicide Prevention Military Sexual Trauma Support Team. Welcome!

Response by Maj Jaquie Hayes-Byrd made Sep 30 at 2020 3:06 PM

2020-09-30T15:06:31-04:00

Hello! Thank you for your service!

The Center for Women Veterans is here to answer your questions.

Please feel free to connect with us on our website https://www.va.gov/womenvet/, FB page, https://www.facebook.com/VAWomenVets or Twitter @VAWomenVets.

The number for the Women Veterans Call Center is 855-VA-Women [login to see] ).

womenvet

Response by SrA Lisa M made Sep 30 at 2020 3:11 PM

2020-09-30T15:11:15-04:00

How can I log into the live event?

Response by The Honorable Cheryl Mason made Sep 30 at 2020 3:11 PM

2020-09-30T15:11:19-04:00

Good afternoon! I am honored to be here with you and answer any of your questions relating to appeals at the Board.

Response by Patty Hayes, Ph.D. made Sep 30 at 2020 3:19 PM

2020-09-30T15:19:12-04:00

Hello Everyone- I am here to respond to your questions about women Veterans Healthcare!

Response by Kathy Hedrick made Sep 30 at 2020 3:24 PM

2020-09-30T15:24:08-04:00

Good afternoon! Dr. Kavitha Reddy and I are happy to be joining you today to answer any questions you may have on VA's Whole Health transformation. You can find information at https://www.va.gov/wholehealth/ and
https://www.blogs.va.gov/VAntage/ #livewholehealth

Let us know if you have questions we can answer!

wholehealth

Response by SGT Jules Tchoujan made Sep 30 at 2020 3:33 PM

2020-09-30T15:33:17-04:00

Please let me know if you have questions about "Doing Business With VA-Procurements"

Jules Tchoujan
Director, Procurement Reviews
Department of Veterans Affairs (VA)
Office of Small & Disadvantaged Business Utilization (OSDBU)
Website: http://www.va.gov/OSDBU/

OSDBU

Response by LTC Elizabeth Brill made Sep 30 at 2020 3:33 PM

2020-09-30T15:33:45-04:00

I am happy to be here to answer your questions on Community Care

Response by Col Pamela Powers made Sep 30 at 2020 3:43 PM

2020-09-30T15:43:48-04:00

To all of our women warriors, thank you for your service. At VA we value and honor you.
We have an entire team online to answer your questions and provide you support. Thank you for joining us!

Response by SGT Tzena Scarborough made Sep 30 at 2020 3:53 PM

2020-09-30T15:53:13-04:00

WHERE IS THIS EVENT BEING HELD???? I LOOKED ON FACEBOOK.... TECH ISSUES????
SO I CAME HERE...

Response by Sara Eichstaedt made Sep 30 at 2020 4:02 PM

2020-09-30T16:02:19-04:00

It was a pleasure being here today. I'll be checking back to make sure all MST-related VHA questions were answered. Recovery from military sexual trauma (MST) is possible and VA is here to help. VA provides free care for both mental and physical health conditions related to Veterans’ experiences of MST and Veterans may be able to receive this care, even if they are not eligible for other VA care. You do not need to have reported your experiences at the time or have any documentation they occurred, and do not need to have a VA disability rating. Visit http://www.mentalhealth.va.gov/msthome.asp to learn more. Thank you!

msthome.asp

Response by Maj Jaquie Hayes-Byrd made Sep 30 at 2020 4:08 PM

2020-09-30T16:08:29-04:00

Thank you for asking your questions here today.

The Center for Women Veterans will continue to check back to answer questions.

Please feel free to connect with us on our website https://www.va.gov/womenvet/, FB page, https://www.facebook.com/VAWomenVets or Twitter @VAWomenVets.

The number for the Women Veterans Call Center is 855-VA-Women [login to see] ).

womenvet

Response by Andi Martinez made Sep 30 at 2020 4:36 PM

2020-09-30T16:36:54-04:00

We apologize if we did not get to all of your questions today! We will check back tomorrow!
Thanks so much for joining us, sharing your stories, and letting us know how we can help you.

Response by PO2 Jenny Morgan made Oct 1 at 2020 12:11 PM

2020-10-01T12:11:56-04:00

A study conducted at Walter Reed found that female veterans are 20-40% more likely to get breast cancer than civilians. I happen to be in that statistic. I was a nuclear machinist mate.....

I want to know why I have been denied twice now with a service connected disability, without any explanations, or questions about my illness. I've lost my breasts, my uterus, my cervix, my ovaries, fertility, hair....... my teeth are in terrible shape because of chemo...and many more side effects I'll have to live with for the rest of my life. I know I'm not the only one. Why is the VA not taking care of us?

Response by Andi Martinez made Oct 2 at 2020 11:28 AM

2020-10-02T11:28:58-04:00

Thank you everyone for joining. If you'd like to talk to a live person, call or text the Women Veterans Call Center. [login to see] . The WVCC staff is trained to provide women Veterans, their families, and caregivers about VA services and resources. We are ready to respond to your concerns. The call is free, and you can call as often as you like until you have the answers to your questions. The Call Center is available Monday through Friday 8 a.m. - 10 p.m. ET, and on Saturdays from 8 a.m. - 6:30 p.m. ET. If we missed your question, please call us today!

Response by CPT Joann Williams made Oct 3 at 2020 6:35 PM

2020-10-03T18:35:04-04:00

I understand that Ft. McClellan was Toxic. I attended basic training there in 1976. Veterans have started reading about this. Is there a registry for those of us who might have had an illines due to our service at the fort?