to my friends of AudiogoN,

Whatjd - Thank you for your service.  Many good suggestions above, I'm hoping someone will listen.

I've had exactly one experience with the VA back in the 70's, was a freakin' nightmare. I'll never go back.  

All the best to you.

Regards, barts

I don't know.  Everybody believes that the VA level of healthcare is substandard, yet so many are clamoring for more government-controlled healthcare. Best of luck to you. 

@whatjd - Sorry to hear of your upcoming battles with the VA; remember that you are your best advocate so fight for your rights like your life depended on it.

@redwoodaudio - " Veterans have some of the best free healthcare you can get." I do not wish to be disagreeable, but I believe that your statement might be inaccurate. Each Veteran signed on a dotted line, giving away their personal wishes and wants to serve something higher than themself; they agreed to serve our Nation and to defend our rights and freedom as Americans. In the event the Veteran is injured during their service, their healthcare is the bare minimum that the Nation can offer the Veteran, but know that healthcare is not given in advance of the Veteran’s service, but as a result of it. That does not sound "free" to me. Our healthcare is already paid for with our own blood, sweat, and tears.

@vinylandtubes - Thank you for your gifts and willingness to help; your explanation of the systemic issues is the same as my personal experience during the past 20 years.

Peace. Mark L.

Guys, I'm lost here.
Will someone let me in on what the OP is referring to?

It is unclear. Maybe the OP can fill in some details. We do know of course that proper care for our Honored Vets is sometimes sorely lacking.