Why can't my friend's husband, a veteran of the Iraq war get the healthcare he needs?

Question

He was one of the first men called for duty and recently came home, with many problems- I don't want to say anything specific about him or his injuries... They have a son who has extreme developmental delays and a daughter they are trying to put through college. What we really need is Universal Health Care, so dying and sick people can get help.

America is the 'developing nation' of the West. Our country is ruled by special interests (the pharmaceutical industry for example) who have a stake in not having UH. I think we are the only Western nation that doesn't have Universal Health care.

It bothers me to see all of this mindless "my country right or wrong" thinking. We are far behind other countries in 'for the people by the people'. (Gettysburg Address excerpt)

Only in the states could we send our young people off to die in a questionable war then bring them back to inadequate healthcare, and imply they don't deserve it.

Answer 1

Universal healthcare would be the worst thing that could happen to your friend. What the government isn't telling us about it is that the healthcare will be rationed and managed. He will find that his son will not qualify for any treatment. The pharmeceutical companies have to make a profit in order to stay in business. If they don't, then there will be no new drugs. R&D costs a fortune. You are so left wing liberal I'm sure this makes no sense to you.

Answer 2

The problem for him is not the lack of universal healthcare, the problem is the Veteran's Adminstration.

If he's having problems getting access to care, then that is where he needs to address it.

Answer 3

your story appears to be 'anecdotal'.  i know of no veteran who does not receive the health care they need.  

i have several family members who have utilized the VA  and they have received very good care.  My son is currently serving in the US Army and has been to both Afghanistan and Iraq.

If he feels that he is not receiving the medical attention he needs, he should go to the VA board and complain to them.  they are dedicated to caring for our veterans.

your 'rant' appears to be giving opinions on your desire for national health care rather than you 'friend'.

IF a national heath care program is instituted, it will include 12 million illegals and we would then have a 'selective' heath care plan due to the cost, and that would be a terrible consequence for all.

Answer 4

If you are espousing "universal" health care, then his status as a veteran is irrelevant.  If everyone gets it, veteran or not, then there is no need to mention it.  If you are trying to attack the veterans health care system, then there is no need to mention "universal" care.  Decide what you want and go for it sensibly.

Answer 5

To which you can add that the GOP spent the 12 years it controlled Congress gutting the Veterans Administration health care programs.

The Democrats are trying to restore the VA's ability to provide needed services for our veterans, but they continue to face opposition from the Republican right wing.

Answer 6

He should be able to get his own healthcare at the VA Hospital. As for his son, have they tried medicare? His daughter is an adult.

Can't say that you're wrong, but your example is flawed.

Answer 7

Chaney to veterans: who cares?

Answer 8

thank the GOP for that - and pray Obama gets elected because your situation is just cause enough for Universal Health Care - and better benefits for our military......hang in there!!

Answer 9

Because we have over 20 million illegal criminal that the failing system take care of first ! They are the reason that most hospitals are closing too !

It so sad that the ones that should be the first to help , You know the ones that put there lives on the line so we can be free are turned away !

I am so Sorry !

Answer 10

I wish I had something to answer other than what Crabby and others have stated. It is sad that he can't get more help after he provided our country with service.

I just keep thinking after the civil war and the second world war, the vets were the catalyst for creating social networks of compensations and care for everyone inc vets. Perhaps, this war will highlight health care crises that most vets and other folks face. Perhaps, it is not too late... Please tell your friend to visit, or at least call, his Senator, Representatives and congressperson.

Answer 11

Just read these ridiculous answers. America is great, but Americans have become some of the stupidest and most brainwashed people on earth. They refuse to acknowledge the most basic problems and shout down anyone who offers the slightest criticism.

Healthcare is messed up. But with the next president, steps will start to be taken to solve it.

Answer 12

Have him go the VA hospital and ask for what he needs.