Question for Veterans

[Jack Spade]

I was in the Navy from 1985-1991, honorably discharged.  Due to some circumstances at the time I did not attend the "discharge classes" that tell you what to do after discharged, benefits, etc.   My wife and I are self employed and pay for our own health insurance and it is getting completely unaffordable.  Can someone tell me what health care I can receive through the VA and if it is good enough that I could drop coverage on myself and just pay for health coverage for my wife?  I have tried contacting the VA several times over the years and it seems like it is a hostile environment and they act like I am trying to defraud the government by asking.  No help or guidance was received on several attempts.  I finally jumped through enough hoops that I do receive 10% disability and get a small monthly check for hearing loss but never have been able to get clear answers about any other medical benefits I might be eligible for.  Can anyone help? 

[Howlin Mad Murdock SASS #4037]

Go to the local VA hospital, most have an office just for that, they can sign you up, and give information on what level you qualify for.

[Forty Rod SASS 3935]

1 hour ago, Howlin Mad Murdock SASS #4037 said:

Go to the local VA hospital, most have an office just for that, they can sign you up, and give information on what level you qualify for.

If there isn't one close most VFW and American Legion units have a specialist on deck to help.

 

If it weren't for the VA I'd be dead a long time by now...and I love my nurses and most my doctors.  Access to the ER is worth the effort all by itself.

[Widder, SASS #59054]

What THEY said above.

The VA also has a booklet to help give info about what you qualify for as a benefit.

PLUS, your local government might have some bennies like reduced property tax, license plate cost reductions, etc.......

 

Ain't sure, but I think those bennies vary from state to state, city to city, etc.....

 

Good luck.

 

..........Widder

 

[Big Sage, SASS #49891 Life]

Get in touch with the DAV (Disabled American Veterans). They were able to help me a lot. Several years ago Congress passed a bill authorizing (and funding) every County in the country to establish and staff a Veterans Office. Ours has an outstanding retired Marine who is a ton of help. He got me a 10% bump in my disability in only 4 months. See them for sure.

[DocWard]

Better yet, go to one of your county veteran services offices. They are trained and accredited to do the job.

 

https://floridavets.org/wp-content/uploads/2022/01/CVSO-Directory-Dec-2021.pdf

 

If you have questions send me a dm

[Forty Rod SASS 3935]

6 hours ago, Jack Spade said:

I was in the Navy from 1985-1991, honorably discharged.  Due to some circumstances at the time I did not attend the "discharge classes" that tell you what to do after discharged, benefits, etc.   My wife and I are self employed and pay for our own health insurance and it is getting completely unaffordable.  Can someone tell me what health care I can receive through the VA and if it is good enough that I could drop coverage on myself and just pay for health coverage for my wife?  I have tried contacting the VA several times over the years and it seems like it is a hostile environment and they act like I am trying to defraud the government by asking.  No help or guidance was received on several attempts.  I finally jumped through enough hoops that I do receive 10% disability and get a small monthly check for hearing loss but never have been able to get clear answers about any other medical benefits I might be eligible for.  Can anyone help? 

See?  You just have to ask an this site will swamp you with good answers.

 

Keep us posted.