How can my father get his VA medical benefits restored?

Question

My father is a Vietnam veteran. He had a disability upon being discharged after 4 years, but he was still able to find work as an electrician. Since he had medical insurance through the electrician's union, he never used the VA medical benefits. Once he retired, his union medical benefits ran out per the contract. He wasn't worried because he thought he had VA medical benefits. When he went to the VA center in Williamson County Illinois, he found that since he did not use the benefits in those years, his VA medical benefits were terminated. He was told that he could get them reinstated by gathering his records, getting his doctor's report, and then seeing a VA assigned doctor for a physical. He did all that. It's been two years and no one seems to know what is happening. Does anyone know what can be done? My father is very sick and his medical bills are enormous.

Answer 1

Your Dad should go to a DAV rep and start an investigation and they will assist him more than the VA. Most people that work in the VA could care less about others and the DAV are veterans helping Vets.

Answer 2

Something does NOT sound right here.  I would suggest contacting these folks....they can and WILL help get to the bottom of this...

http://www.dav.org/

They are a not for profit vet org that helps vets and their families secure their benefits and get through the red tape.

Good Luck

Answer 3

Call the number below and ask for a Service Office. If they ask for your number so they can call back, give it. When you get an SO, tell him/her what is going on and they WILL get it straightened out.