When I was a teenager, my best friend's dad went to the VA for a serious injury

[MoonRiver]

he incurred during the Korean War. He had the same complaints that we are hearing about now. Namely, long, long waits and indifferent care. He survived 30 years, despite being predicted to die within 5 years after his injury. Maybe this says something positive about VA care or maybe he was just lucky.

My point is that this problem is VERY long standing. No way did it begin under President Obama's watch. Yeah, he should have tried to do more to change things, but that would mean getting additional funding for the VA. And as we all know the teabags and their minions wouldn't have any of that.

[moondust]

1. I've had good care at my VA.

Including a couple outpatient surgeries.

Apparently the wars in Afghanistan and Iraq have created so many new VA patients over the past 11 years that without massively increasing resources (thanks to Republicans) the VA can't handle them all in good time. A few administrators have apparently found a way to make themselves look good for promotion by cooking the appointment books.

[X_Digger]

2. A lot of it also depends on where you are / go.

A friend of mine that got out in '98 after 22 years due to back issues (heli mechanic) had a hell of a time getting any help at all when he lived near New Orleans, but got great service when he moved to northern Virginia a couple years ago. Said it was like night and day.

(I don't know the facility names.)

[MoonRiver]

3. I'm sure that's true.

I was just pointing out that this problem has been long standing at various VA hospitals.

[pinboy3niner]

4. The VA is consistently rated as good as or better than top civilian health care in the U.S.

Despite getting its largest funding increase in 30 years in Obama's first year in office, the infusion of new vets and and new participation of older vets continue to tax its resources.

Every time the Republicans raise the idea of privtization, the vets are the first ones to oppose it.

[ProdigalJunkMail]

5. my father had amazing care through the VA

when his colon cancer was spotted he was treated quickly and thoroughly and has been cancer free for five years. it boggles the mind to see how bad it CAN be ... not really sure why some outcomes are good and then others are as bad as they are.

and yes, i have heard horror stories (and wonderful stories) going back MUCH farther than the Obama admin...

sP