Veterans Care Panel Wants Red Tape Slashed

Presidential Commission Urges Broad Changes Making Treatment More Accessible For Wounded Soldiers

(CBS/AP)  A presidential commission on Wednesday urged broad changes to veterans' care that would boost benefits for family members helping the wounded, establish an easy-to-use Web site for medical records and overhaul the way disability pay is awarded.

The commission's report recommends every injured vet get a treatment plan and a recovery coordinator, reports CBS News chief White House correspondent Jim Axelrod. It also mandates care for post-traumatic stress disorder and traumatic brain injury; training and counseling for family members; and improvements in conditions at Walter Reed Hospital.

The nine-member panel, led by former Sen. Bob Dole, R-Kan., and Donna Shalala, health and human services secretary during the Clinton administration, also recommended stronger partnerships between the Pentagon and the private sector to boost treatment for traumatic brain injury and post-traumatic stress disorder.

A 29-page draft report was presented to President Bush in the Oval Office, just after the Senate addressed some of the issues Wednesday morning by passing sweeping legislation to expand brain screenings, reduce red tape and boost military pay.

The commission formally approved the recommendations later in the day.

"Gone will be the days of injured soldiers telling the same information to doctors over and over again," said Shalala, who said the proposals seek to provide more customized, personalized care to injured Iraq war veterans.

She called the report a set of recommendations that could be implemented right away. About six of the 35 proposals require legislation, while the rest call for action primarily by the Pentagon and Department of Veterans Affairs.

Among the recommendations was an indirect rebuke of the VA — a call for Congress to "enable all veterans who have been deployed in Afghanistan and Iraq who need post-traumatic stress disorder care to receive it from the VA."

Only recently, the VA has taken steps to add mental health counselors and 24-hour suicide prevention services at all facilities, following high-profile incidents of suicides involving veterans. In the past, the VA had failed to use all the money for mental health that was allotted to it.

"The experiences of these young men and women have highlighted the need for fundamental changes in care management and the disability system," the report read.

---

Report: The President's Commission On Care For America's Returning Wounded Warriors

---

"Making the significant improvements we recommend requires a sense of urgency and strong leadership," it said.

The report says significant improvements require "urgency," but when asked when those changes might be implemented, White House spokesman Tony Snow could not say, adds Axelrod.

The report does not seek to directly criticize or lay blame for shoddy outpatient treatment at Walter Reed Army Medical Center that brought a public outcry for change and creation of the commission. It cited a need to move forward, explaining there was no need to "reiterate" the findings of news reports which uncovered substandard care from the Defense Department and VA.

Among the proposals:

Restructure the disability pay systems to give the VA more responsibility for awarding benefits.

Create a "My eBenefits" Web site, developed jointly by the VA and Pentagon, that would allow service members and doctors to access private medical information as the injured move from facility to facility to receive treatment.

Provide better family support, because one-third of injured Iraq war veterans reported that a family member or close friend had to relocate to care for them. It calls for training and counseling for families of service members who require long-term care and improved family leave and insurance benefits for family members.

"We owe our wounded soldiers the very best care, and the very best benefits, and the very easiest to understand system," Bush said. "And so they took a very interesting approach. They took the perspective from the patient, as the patient had to work his way through the hospitals and bureaucracies. And they've come up with some very interesting and important suggestions."

Bush created the panel March 6 to investigate problems in the treatment of wounded veterans following disclosures of roach-infested conditions and shoddy outpatient care at Walter Reed.

The White House event followed the Senate's vote by unanimous consent on legislation that seeks to end inconsistencies in disability pay by providing for a special review of cases in which service members received low ratings of their level of disability. The aim is to determine if they were shortchanged.

The bill also would boost severance pay and provide $50 million for improved diagnosis of veterans with traumatic brain injury or post-traumatic stress disorder. The House was considering similar measures.

"It has been hurry up and wait for the results of this commission report and now the White House is telling our vets to wait even longer," said Sen. Patty Murray, D-Wash. "That's why the Senate has moved ahead with our Wounded Warriors Act. The public is waiting, our veterans are waiting."

Paul Rieckhoff, executive director of Iraq & Afghanistan Veterans of America, agreed.

"It is important for the American public to understand that the Walter Reed fiasco is not over," he said. "Everything is not fixed. The follow-through will be the most important part."

© MMVII, CBS Interactive Inc. All Rights Reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed. The Associated Press contributed to this report.

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Add a Comment See all 43 Comments

by homespunlady July 25, 2007 10:51 AM PDT

VA has its problems but the military PRIVATELY RUN HMO known as TriCare is worse. Ironically it's the military veterans that have been abused by TriCare and shunted in desperation over to the VA that are a REAL hidden problem. The injured Iraq war veterans HAVE TO pass through the TRICARE system FIRST and if my experiences with that "SICKO BUREAUCRACY" is any indication much of the problems that STARTED this investigation can be found rooted in the military TRICARE Bureaucracy. There are unbelievable hoops set up to jump through and it only gets WORSE the more Dependant or helpless you are. Yes, if you're young healthy and fast thinking they bend over back wards if you're not, you're "forgotten", delayed, ignored, disqualified, and told to call back next month for an appointment where you're told whatever it was you needed ISN'T COVERED BY THEIR PLAN.

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by ramos937 July 25, 2007 10:55 AM PDT

I can already predict the course of this report. The commission will document needed administrative and other changes that would require extensive dollars to fulfil. The President will accept the report in a photo-op, make strong statements about adopting its recommendations. An "Executive Order" will go out. And then, nothing, if anything, will be done to implement the meat of the proposals.

I do not fault VA personnel. These folks are understaffed, underfunded and overworked. They have not, and never will, receive the resources to make the system really work.

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by fastfredy1 July 25, 2007 11:21 AM PDT

Just had my VA disability lowered today. Someon in an office in Roanoke VA decided I am better from service related injuries. But I go next week to get more injections in my spine so I can atleast walk...Hmmmmmmm

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by slim1h2o July 25, 2007 11:25 AM PDT

Posted by homespunlady at 10:51 AM : Jul 25, 2007

UNC Hospitals are the same way. EVEN WITH Insurance. Michael Moore ought to investigate that hospital, it's a Sicko one!

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by bgreen415 July 25, 2007 12:06 PM PDT

VA has its problems but the military PRIVATELY RUN HMO known as TriCare is worse. Ironically it's the military veterans that have been abused by TriCare and shunted in desperation over to the VA that are a REAL hidden problem. The injured Iraq war veterans HAVE TO pass through the TRICARE system FIRST and if my experiences with that "SICKO BUREAUCRACY" is any indication much of the problems that STARTED this investigation can be found rooted in the military TRICARE Bureaucracy. There are unbelievable hoops set up to jump through and it only gets WORSE the more Dependant or helpless you are. Yes, if you're young healthy and fast thinking they bend over back wards if you're not, you're "forgotten", delayed, ignored, disqualified, and told to call back next month for an appointment where you're told whatever it was you needed ISN'T COVERED BY THEIR PLAN.
Posted by homespunlady at 10:51 AM : Jul 25, 2007

My experiences are very similar. They give you 3 plans and if you op for the non-HMO one where you pay a higher percentage fo not using one of their incompetent in system docs, they say their unappealable normal charge is about 15% of what normal is. That way they try their best to blackmail you into the HMO where they can further Rape and Pillage. The poor guys coming back don't have a clue whats in store for them and their dependents yet.

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by michellem99-2009 July 25, 2007 12:47 PM PDT

I have a vet Dad and a room mate who is a vet and he tells he is treated like dirt/rude some times at VAMC . They oaught 'member you are vets and earnt that care but at same time b both staff and vet gracious as my room mate does thank them for the care he gets. Some vets are treated bad and is not right. My room mate had to see Drs outside VAMC as they were not meeting his special needs. That is costly. He is diabetci,4 heart attacks,copd plus other health issues. We ought think of this Nation 'fore sending aid overseas that it should not go. Thanks vets....

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by lars008-2009 July 25, 2007 1:16 PM PDT

please support our troops

demonic-rats won't fight the fascist nazi terrorislamic war...

Incredible! George S Patton's New Speech-Iraq & modern world
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=xyUX6wV1lBQ

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by maggg1 July 25, 2007 1:32 PM PDT

Our entire healthcare system is broken and from someone that just lost my only cousin in Iraq after 22 years of service and untold injuries. He is the real hero, and the system is worse than SICKO portrayed. Why don't we just have the senators and the Executive Branch go to the same hospitals as our veterans.

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by hwy71so July 25, 2007 1:51 PM PDT

I've been treated very well by both the VA and military hospitals since retiring as have my dependents. So far, my Tricare Prime has come through for my dependents. I haven't had to use it.

You folks need to put more focus on the LEGISLATIVE branch. There's where the real problem is. SICKO? That'd be Michael Moore himself and he best hope he never shows his unpatriotic face around me when he's spouting his trash. Him and John Skerry are both traitors to this great nation and should be locked up. Kerry for encouraging insurrection to military personnel in Las Vegas. And Moore, well for more obvious reasons along the same lines.

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by starleo146 July 25, 2007 2:28 PM PDT

Amen!!! Homespunlady Micheal Moore was trying to point out Insurance companies run our health care and make all the decisions as to how to handle your health with rulings over what doctors consider wrong but do to funding by the insurance company weather to get paid or not or rule in or out our health is secondary. This gentleman that dislikes Moore so much is probably not sick and his treatment will be fine but buddy you better not get a radical sickness. I commend Micheal for letting people who didn't understand this for bringing it all out for discussion and possible change

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by starleo146 July 25, 2007 2:36 PM PDT

Hwy71so--- Your post showed a lot of anger and personally this is a country of diverse opinions as you well know and I am glad you never have to use your Tricare I do and please understand a lot of people are mistreated by there insurance companies and it depends a lot on the sickness. Some people can not even see a doctor of their choice the insurance company picks that as well what medicines you can take or not so stay healthy is all I can say. Look at the Gulf War Syndrome the VA are still making excuses about that meanwhile the veterans are not getting the proper treatment to this day.

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by maggg1 July 25, 2007 2:39 PM PDT

Hwy71

I am glad that you have been treated well by the healthcare system. But to say that if one doesn't like the current system is unpatriotic then you are truly unamerican. This is not the Soviet Union, we here actually can dissagree with Washington, and that includes all three branches of government. The Executive, The Legislative and The Judicial. FYI (The Senate is part of The Legislative Branch)

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by bgreen415 July 25, 2007 2:48 PM PDT

"I've been treated very well by both the VA and military hospitals since retiring as have my dependents. So far, my Tricare Prime has come through for my dependents. I haven't had to use it."

I've been dealing with them since 1976. The VA has come a long ways since then and will have to continue to with the new DAVs. As far as Tricare, I have been a patient of the Docs that are in system here before and would not recommend them to anyone. As far as "Normal" charges, I'd like to see where else a charge of $300 is considered "Normal" or average for a MRI. Some clinics here will refuse treatment to Tricare patients. I don't mean not accept tricare I mean refuse treatment period.

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by drivelphobe July 25, 2007 2:53 PM PDT

The VA is staffed by personnel that are dedicated and hard working, only to be stifled by heavy workloads, red tape and the ominous restrictive, negligent oversight of the government. Everyone there would love to provide the most modern and effective treatments in a timely manner, with modern equipment and facilities. Just the same kind of treatment George Bush receives when he's admitted. It's a matter of funding, prioritizing, and implementation. These are the things the government can't seem to accomplish.

Our veterans are entitled to the very best modern medicine can provide. All the facilities should be kept up and provide a modern and clean environment. It seems they get treated like third class citizens and that's unacceptable.

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by twylacrat July 25, 2007 3:05 PM PDT

I think the White House should get their medical care at the V.A. and no place else. They are always SAYING that the soldiers come first. Oh yea, there's not a veteran in the White House. The vice-president is not a veteran either. The Secretary of State is also not a veteran. For a WAR PRESIDENT he sure doesn't have any experience. He has no frame of reference for dealing with the issues that he created. Imagine that!!!!!

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by goamerica July 25, 2007 4:01 PM PDT

If we can efficiently round up troops and SEND them to Iraq, then we should be able to muster the SAME efficiency in handling their care when they come home. Of course, I remember Condoleeza saying in January that there was "no way of knowing how many casualties could be expected from the surge" -- a number that every general has considered part of the overall planning calculation since the beginning of WAR -- oops, did I say PLANNING?!

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by tnt1954 July 25, 2007 4:05 PM PDT

2 classes of citizens. military and civilian.
the support troops and the sworn.
everyone said the pledge of allegiance a
zillion times growing up in school. and
they still mistrust our loyalties and
criticisms. maybe we should just make everything
in the world 'on the House'. have no one
work or maybe just one day a year. one
big free giveway program. and abolish money
and have signs that say, take what you want,
its free.

Reply to this comment

by oakishpines July 25, 2007 4:20 PM PDT

99 percent of folk refuse to volunteer to dance get sick soon tax the world first strike on the trail songs 99 percent of the time ... and 99 percent of those that volunteer to dance get well soon feed the world first aid on the trail songs 99 percent of the time anyway

the world is ruined

Reply to this comment

by tnt1954 July 25, 2007 4:41 PM PDT

sorry folks, we're saved whether you like
it or not, the 'aladdin device' is here.
developed by the cordoba research and
development corporation in newberry park, ca,
it provides anything you desire for nothing
from nothing, yes truly something for nothing,
at the press of a button. voila. it awaits
f.b.i. approval before mass production starts.

Reply to this comment

by sshard July 25, 2007 5:07 PM PDT

ozilot

It is sad after 5 years, they are now looking to change the VA system. Not much good for all the proud men and women who came home expecting the health care they needed. Sadder is Tony Snow comment that the president will NOT act immediately on the recommendations.

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by j-whitman July 25, 2007 5:34 PM PDT

irishbitch11,,, Great post & sound advice

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by nyteryder2 July 25, 2007 5:47 PM PDT

I think the White House should get their medical care at the V.A. and no place else. Posted by twylacrat at 03:05 PM : Jul 25, 2007
_______________________

It used to be that way, at least for the president. How long has it been since the POTUS got his checkup at Walter Reed?

I just can't imagine why they don't go there now!!!

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by forthepeopl1 July 25, 2007 5:48 PM PDT

someone needs to ask them this...............

this is the only way!!!!!!!!! to stop this adminastration. period..the only way bush has no way of vetoing. so why haven't they done this?

both party are dragging this on to far. its time to end this for god sake

so call on congress to do this NOW!!!!!!!!!!!!!!

Article 1 of the US Constitution gives the Congress, not the President, the right to declare war. And the War Powers Act specifies that the President may not continue a war without Congressional authorization. Saddam is dead. There never were any WMDs or ties to Al Qaeda. The basis for the 2002 war authorization is gone.
If Congress passes a resolution de-authorizing the war, the President has no legal authority to continue. De-authorization cannot be vetoed, and it would legally require Bush to begin bringing the troops home.
The time for waiting is over. People are dying every day. We cannot wait until this fall to start bringing our troops home. If Congress doesn't act before they leave for the summer, the only thing that will change between now and the end of the year is the body count.
Congress has a public mandate and the Constitutional authority to end this war.

LETS GO AMERICA WE OWE THIS TO OUR TROOPS DIEING FOR NOTHING BUT THE PRESIDENTS AND MR VP'S PLEASURE, AND PROFITS.....

Reply to this comment

by usayesterday July 25, 2007 5:52 PM PDT

How do you "support the troops"?


Do you:

A. Support the continuing fighting, which includes grossly extended tours of duty and overly fatigued military soldiers, in an area of the country that has never seen complete agreement, cooperation, peace, love, harmony, and all that stuff.... AND NEVER WILL SEE ANY OF THAT NO MATTER WHAT KIND OF "DEMOCRACY" EXISTS! (if any)

....OR....

B. Do you support forcing this administration to change its tactics in the battlefield (not neccessarily meaning retreat), as well as its tactics at home in helping our soldiers recover from months if not years of continued fighting in a foreign land.


As many of you may know already, "supporting our troops" is defined by how you support their survival and general well being before, during, and after the war. Simply having them fight a war and then treating them like a used tampon by throwing them in the trash after they return home...

...IS NOT SUPPORTING OUR TROOPS.

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by rushlimpdrug July 25, 2007 6:23 PM PDT

" . . That'd be Michael Moore himself and he best hope he never shows his unpatriotic face around me when he's spouting his trash. . . Him and John Skerry are both traitors to this great nation and should be locked up."
Posted by Hwy71So

Son, you've got some serious anger problems. Though I would find it amusing to see you put your money where your mouth is. Anyway, take some aspirin and call Michael in the morning.

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by perception5 July 25, 2007 6:58 PM PDT

It's nice to see our President getting something done for the American people. Meanwhile up the street the political lynchings continue in our 110th DO-NOTHING DEMOCRAT CONGRESS with the lowest approval ratings in the history of US polling.

That's probably why our President's poll numbers are starting raise. In Rasmussen polls, which polling everyday, our President been polling 38-39% approval all week.

Come on 2008

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by gkc99 July 25, 2007 7:12 PM PDT

Oh yeah, there's that smirking, s**t-eating monkey in the background, while the lickspittle Repub Congress we had for 6 years couldn't be bothered to care for the wounded soldiers they are all so concerned about on TV, but the neocon scum think it's all the Dems fault, you know, the slim majority that got elected last November and gets vetoed by the Decider-in-chief.

The neocon scum are squirming like worms on a fish hook. The chimp has no problems--the billionaires he's represented so well will make sure he gets a nice warm spot as a senior fellow at the Hoover Institute or something, so he can chop brush at his phony Potemkin village in Texass.

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by donnie900 July 25, 2007 7:40 PM PDT

I guess I'm not as big a believer in the media as you are. Of course, I've never trusted any propaganda. "Why?" I always ask. "Why does they need that stuff?" And its true, ain't it? I mean, my God.. We give them more appropriations than any other segment of our society. More money? More technology? More training? They even have healthcare for the rest of their life!

And besides all that, propaganda ain't necessarily a good thing all the time. Especially nowadays when, one minute you're watching the down syndromed face of some politician crying "SUPPORT THE TROOPS!", and the next some movie star drinking fixation. Propaganda isn't always a good thing! And professional people shouldn't need that stuff. They do their jobs which are clear cut and simple, and then they go home. In fact, that was one of the things I liked about the military. "Clear cut"! Ya knew what ya had to do. It ain't like that once ya get out. And all this bullshyyt psychobabble media "support the troops" shyythead trophy stuff only contributes to the fallacy of false reality.

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by donnie900 July 25, 2007 7:44 PM PDT

What are we doing in Iraq? Huh? What are we fighting for?

Does a president owe us an explanation? Huh? About a war?

What did we have before these creeps took office? Huh? If not peace? And prosperity? And then it was.. some god damned peckkkertrack, and all of a sudden all the sweaty upper lipped people came outta the woodwork and ruined everything.

Might I suggest that we not support the troops? Don't support the troops. Save them. Save them from our stupidity. Save them from false reality. Save them from the right wing lunatics...

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by donnie900 July 25, 2007 7:49 PM PDT

Do you really believe that if we cloned one of the founding fathers right now? And asked him: "Hey, Mr. Jefferson! What do yaz tink about us being over der in eyerak?" What do ya think he'd say?

Reply to this comment

by donnie900 July 25, 2007 7:52 PM PDT

I think I know what he'd say.

"Impeach".

Reply to this comment

by leftysgal July 25, 2007 7:52 PM PDT

fortunately this panel has only touched a splinter of the problems with the VA and military health care system. Many of the problems are so ingrained that the appearance of assistance is in itself a lie. The VA was tasked with assisting veterans in their claims, yet they continually serve as the oppresor in helping the vet get what is rightfully theirs when claims are submitted. Additionally, the system is fraught with cronyism and nepotism, so those that are familiar with the trails of being in the military and going against the system are denied positions working at the Veterans offices. More of the people working at the VA Regional offices are overly concerned with making their minmum work quota and getting their outlandish bonuses than going out of their way to help a vet. I am glad Nicholson is leaving as he has helped foster a hollow VA that only has a shiny exterior with a cancerous underbelly.

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by moosbrth July 25, 2007 7:57 PM PDT

This administration is the biggest joke in history. Put new ideas on how to help the VETS, then don't implement any of it. He's stripped everything else from them, he is nothing more than $***! Impeach the ba$**** or at least put it on the table, Nancy, do you copy??????

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by likeitis5050 July 25, 2007 8:48 PM PDT

for an administration that campaigned for less government Bush sure has found a way to lock us up in government red tape or censorship. Nothing he campaigned on measures one degree today...'bring back integrity and personal accountability'..nope...in the dumper. 'Less government in our business'...well, now...we just don't have space to go into all the sabotage on that issue. Bush is a fraud.

Reply to this comment

by moosbrth July 25, 2007 8:55 PM PDT

I am so tired of Bush, I don't even know what to say! Impeachment isn't even the right thing, hanging may be the right thing!

Reply to this comment

by tomar0317 July 25, 2007 9:34 PM PDT

All veterans from all wars should be capable of receiving benefits from the VA. Current salaries should not be a reason for turning away oue vets. We put ourselves on the line, we don't ask for much. I'm even ok with paying deductable which according to the VA folks I've talked too, makes the system pay for itself....do you here that Bush?

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by swwils July 25, 2007 10:57 PM PDT

They should have had this panel do this about 30 years ago.The Veterans from a lot of other secret little wars have been suffering these same disorders for years.It is a shame that it took Iraq to open their eyes.PTSD is not a common cold it doesn't just go away,or get better.I am very glad that the soldiers will be getting some medical treatment that is deeply needed.It all begins with taking care of our own!

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by lastdance2 July 26, 2007 1:08 AM PDT

A Republican Presidential Commission

In 2005, a Republican Committee appeared, before The Congress saying :
The Veterans Claim, on the PTSD issue was Fraudulent.
They urged the Congress to Stop the Treatment, of the Veteran for the PTSD issue.

Also ! They urged the Congress to stop paying the Veteran.
Compensation for the veterans claim of having : PTSD.

By 1980, five (5) years after the Viet-Nam war had ended.
The combination of suicide and suicide induced accidents.

Committed by the Viet-Nam combatant, was at fifty two percent. (52%)

Which means : That within five (5) years, after the Viet-Nam war had ended.
Over half of the Viet-Nam combatants. Who had survived the war and returned home.

Were now dead - By their own hand.

The suicide rate of : The veterans of Iraqi, has already begun.

The issue of PTSD is being Scrutinized by the American Enterprise Institute.
They are saying : PTSD is a Liberal Hippie dream.

Lynne Cheney the Wife of : V.P. Cheney, Is on the Board of Directors.
(The American Enterprise Institute)

This is the Real Attitude, of the Republican Party,
The Bush - Cheney Administration's
Concern - Towards - The Combat Veterans of Today.

The Republican Party
The Bush - Cheney Administration's
Gift of Patriotism - and - Appreciation
To the Combat Veteran

Profound Display of : "Family Values"

Within their own actions - Lay - Their True Feelings.


Lastdance

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by starleo146 July 26, 2007 10:29 AM PDT

They are just going through the motion I do not believe a d*a*m*n thing this out of control contemptuous administration says or does any more all they care about is divide and conquer at any cost and as far as I am concerned our veterans and our troops have paid a very dear price for a contemptible commander-in-chief who all along has only cared about his power and used 30000 injuries 13000 severe injuries and 3640 dead and these injuries will never be taken care of from this government I am convinced any one that cares nothing about the constitution and has a justice system that helps him along with a supreme court all they care about is power and I say these troops have given enough but this commander-in-chief says not enough troops and fix your injuries the best way you can, Just disgusting.

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by starleo146 July 26, 2007 10:40 AM PDT

Last dance2 that was a great post and I think what they did to the Viet Nam veterans was also a disgrace these troops also did what was asked of them and got nothing from the America Government I always thought they deserved to be honored in some way a memorial in Wash. D.C. is nice but it was not enough and we still have Agent Orange injuries the VA is ignoring just like the GULF WAR SYNDROME they the VA will not admit a thing who is suffering our veterans and who cares certainly not our government and personally I am sick of it.POST TRAUMATIC STRESS from both wars have not been treated whatsoever.Why would you use such a golden resource in such a way I ask you?

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by photogeezer July 26, 2007 11:30 AM PDT

The press has failed to address the issue of the neocons' desire to "drown government in a bathtub", as voiced by Grover Norquist. The VA, the very government agency with the facilities, and trained, dedicated people to deal with the inevitable consequences of sending young people to war, is part of the government that they want to drown. Look at the history of cuts for VA funding, the ouster of a dedicated champion of veterans' care (Rep. Chris Smith, a Republican)from the House Vets Affairs Committee, and the veiled references in these committee reports to turning vets' care over to private industry. If we think their care is not what it should be now, try turning it over to the accountants and bureaucrats who run health insurance companies.

To sneer at the VA's shortcomings, and to characterize them as an "entitlement program", while, at the same time, failing to fund them adequately, is deplorable.

BTW, the VA is hiring two LCSW's (licensed clinic social workers) to help out with vets with PTSD at the VA Vet Center in San Jose. The funding is there; someone needs to apply. See usajobs.gov.

Reply to this comment

by bb19631 July 26, 2007 7:26 PM PDT

what i want to know is, how come bush only start doing these committees, when these incidents are brought out by the public eye??? when the real truth is told, he starts is mumbo jabbering....i can honestly say, i didnt vote for this idiot, president..i voted for the underdog. every time.next time you want to go to war-think about all the ramifications, first. better yet, put a gun in his hand and drop him off on the front line, see how he likes that.

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by sclaires July 27, 2007 12:29 AM PDT

Yeh, I can see the red tape being cut!! If I know the Army, they will only make it worse. Nothing is going to be make easier with GWB around.

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[homespunlady]

VA has its problems but the military PRIVATELY RUN HMO known as TriCare is worse. Ironically it's the military veterans that have been abused by TriCare and shunted in desperation over to the VA that are a REAL hidden problem. The injured Iraq war veterans HAVE TO pass through the TRICARE system FIRST and if my experiences with that "SICKO BUREAUCRACY" is any indication much of the problems that STARTED this investigation can be found rooted in the military TRICARE Bureaucracy. There are unbelievable hoops set up to jump through and it only gets WORSE the more Dependant or helpless you are. Yes, if you're young healthy and fast thinking they bend over back wards if you're not, you're "forgotten", delayed, ignored, disqualified, and told to call back next month for an appointment where you're told whatever it was you needed ISN'T COVERED BY THEIR PLAN.

[ramos937]

I can already predict the course of this report. The commission will document needed administrative and other changes that would require extensive dollars to fulfil. The President will accept the report in a photo-op, make strong statements about adopting its recommendations. An "Executive Order" will go out. And then, nothing, if anything, will be done to implement the meat of the proposals.

I do not fault VA personnel. These folks are understaffed, underfunded and overworked. They have not, and never will, receive the resources to make the system really work.

[fastfredy1]

Just had my VA disability lowered today. Someon in an office in Roanoke VA decided I am better from service related injuries. But I go next week to get more injections in my spine so I can atleast walk...Hmmmmmmm

[slim1h2o]

Posted by homespunlady at 10:51 AM : Jul 25, 2007

UNC Hospitals are the same way. EVEN WITH Insurance. Michael Moore ought to investigate that hospital, it's a Sicko one!

[bgreen415]

VA has its problems but the military PRIVATELY RUN HMO known as TriCare is worse. Ironically it's the military veterans that have been abused by TriCare and shunted in desperation over to the VA that are a REAL hidden problem. The injured Iraq war veterans HAVE TO pass through the TRICARE system FIRST and if my experiences with that "SICKO BUREAUCRACY" is any indication much of the problems that STARTED this investigation can be found rooted in the military TRICARE Bureaucracy. There are unbelievable hoops set up to jump through and it only gets WORSE the more Dependant or helpless you are. Yes, if you're young healthy and fast thinking they bend over back wards if you're not, you're "forgotten", delayed, ignored, disqualified, and told to call back next month for an appointment where you're told whatever it was you needed ISN'T COVERED BY THEIR PLAN.
Posted by homespunlady at 10:51 AM : Jul 25, 2007

My experiences are very similar. They give you 3 plans and if you op for the non-HMO one where you pay a higher percentage fo not using one of their incompetent in system docs, they say their unappealable normal charge is about 15% of what normal is. That way they try their best to blackmail you into the HMO where they can further Rape and Pillage. The poor guys coming back don't have a clue whats in store for them and their dependents yet.

[michellem99-2009]

I have a vet Dad and a room mate who is a vet and he tells he is treated like dirt/rude some times at VAMC . They oaught 'member you are vets and earnt that care but at same time b both staff and vet gracious as my room mate does thank them for the care he gets. Some vets are treated bad and is not right. My room mate had to see Drs outside VAMC as they were not meeting his special needs. That is costly. He is diabetci,4 heart attacks,copd plus other health issues. We ought think of this Nation 'fore sending aid overseas that it should not go. Thanks vets....

[lars008-2009]

please support our troops

demonic-rats won't fight the fascist nazi terrorislamic war...

Incredible! George S Patton's New Speech-Iraq & modern world
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=xyUX6wV1lBQ

[maggg1]

Our entire healthcare system is broken and from someone that just lost my only cousin in Iraq after 22 years of service and untold injuries. He is the real hero, and the system is worse than SICKO portrayed. Why don't we just have the senators and the Executive Branch go to the same hospitals as our veterans.

[hwy71so]

I've been treated very well by both the VA and military hospitals since retiring as have my dependents. So far, my Tricare Prime has come through for my dependents. I haven't had to use it.

You folks need to put more focus on the LEGISLATIVE branch. There's where the real problem is. SICKO? That'd be Michael Moore himself and he best hope he never shows his unpatriotic face around me when he's spouting his trash. Him and John Skerry are both traitors to this great nation and should be locked up. Kerry for encouraging insurrection to military personnel in Las Vegas. And Moore, well for more obvious reasons along the same lines.

[starleo146]

Amen!!! Homespunlady Micheal Moore was trying to point out Insurance companies run our health care and make all the decisions as to how to handle your health with rulings over what doctors consider wrong but do to funding by the insurance company weather to get paid or not or rule in or out our health is secondary. This gentleman that dislikes Moore so much is probably not sick and his treatment will be fine but buddy you better not get a radical sickness. I commend Micheal for letting people who didn't understand this for bringing it all out for discussion and possible change

[starleo146]

Hwy71so--- Your post showed a lot of anger and personally this is a country of diverse opinions as you well know and I am glad you never have to use your Tricare I do and please understand a lot of people are mistreated by there insurance companies and it depends a lot on the sickness. Some people can not even see a doctor of their choice the insurance company picks that as well what medicines you can take or not so stay healthy is all I can say. Look at the Gulf War Syndrome the VA are still making excuses about that meanwhile the veterans are not getting the proper treatment to this day.

[maggg1]

Hwy71

I am glad that you have been treated well by the healthcare system. But to say that if one doesn't like the current system is unpatriotic then you are truly unamerican. This is not the Soviet Union, we here actually can dissagree with Washington, and that includes all three branches of government. The Executive, The Legislative and The Judicial. FYI (The Senate is part of The Legislative Branch)

[bgreen415]

"I've been treated very well by both the VA and military hospitals since retiring as have my dependents. So far, my Tricare Prime has come through for my dependents. I haven't had to use it."

I've been dealing with them since 1976. The VA has come a long ways since then and will have to continue to with the new DAVs. As far as Tricare, I have been a patient of the Docs that are in system here before and would not recommend them to anyone. As far as "Normal" charges, I'd like to see where else a charge of $300 is considered "Normal" or average for a MRI. Some clinics here will refuse treatment to Tricare patients. I don't mean not accept tricare I mean refuse treatment period.

[drivelphobe]

The VA is staffed by personnel that are dedicated and hard working, only to be stifled by heavy workloads, red tape and the ominous restrictive, negligent oversight of the government. Everyone there would love to provide the most modern and effective treatments in a timely manner, with modern equipment and facilities. Just the same kind of treatment George Bush receives when he's admitted. It's a matter of funding, prioritizing, and implementation. These are the things the government can't seem to accomplish.

Our veterans are entitled to the very best modern medicine can provide. All the facilities should be kept up and provide a modern and clean environment. It seems they get treated like third class citizens and that's unacceptable.

[twylacrat]

I think the White House should get their medical care at the V.A. and no place else. They are always SAYING that the soldiers come first. Oh yea, there's not a veteran in the White House. The vice-president is not a veteran either. The Secretary of State is also not a veteran. For a WAR PRESIDENT he sure doesn't have any experience. He has no frame of reference for dealing with the issues that he created. Imagine that!!!!!

[goamerica]

If we can efficiently round up troops and SEND them to Iraq, then we should be able to muster the SAME efficiency in handling their care when they come home. Of course, I remember Condoleeza saying in January that there was "no way of knowing how many casualties could be expected from the surge" -- a number that every general has considered part of the overall planning calculation since the beginning of WAR -- oops, did I say PLANNING?!

[tnt1954]

2 classes of citizens. military and civilian.
the support troops and the sworn.
everyone said the pledge of allegiance a
zillion times growing up in school. and
they still mistrust our loyalties and
criticisms. maybe we should just make everything
in the world 'on the House'. have no one
work or maybe just one day a year. one
big free giveway program. and abolish money
and have signs that say, take what you want,
its free.

[oakishpines]

99 percent of folk refuse to volunteer to dance get sick soon tax the world first strike on the trail songs 99 percent of the time ... and 99 percent of those that volunteer to dance get well soon feed the world first aid on the trail songs 99 percent of the time anyway

the world is ruined

[tnt1954]

sorry folks, we're saved whether you like
it or not, the 'aladdin device' is here.
developed by the cordoba research and
development corporation in newberry park, ca,
it provides anything you desire for nothing
from nothing, yes truly something for nothing,
at the press of a button. voila. it awaits
f.b.i. approval before mass production starts.

[sshard]

ozilot

It is sad after 5 years, they are now looking to change the VA system. Not much good for all the proud men and women who came home expecting the health care they needed. Sadder is Tony Snow comment that the president will NOT act immediately on the recommendations.

[j-whitman]

irishbitch11,,, Great post & sound advice

[nyteryder2]

I think the White House should get their medical care at the V.A. and no place else. Posted by twylacrat at 03:05 PM : Jul 25, 2007
_______________________

It used to be that way, at least for the president. How long has it been since the POTUS got his checkup at Walter Reed?

I just can't imagine why they don't go there now!!!

[forthepeopl1]

someone needs to ask them this...............

this is the only way!!!!!!!!! to stop this adminastration. period..the only way bush has no way of vetoing. so why haven't they done this?

both party are dragging this on to far. its time to end this for god sake

so call on congress to do this NOW!!!!!!!!!!!!!!

Article 1 of the US Constitution gives the Congress, not the President, the right to declare war. And the War Powers Act specifies that the President may not continue a war without Congressional authorization. Saddam is dead. There never were any WMDs or ties to Al Qaeda. The basis for the 2002 war authorization is gone.
If Congress passes a resolution de-authorizing the war, the President has no legal authority to continue. De-authorization cannot be vetoed, and it would legally require Bush to begin bringing the troops home.
The time for waiting is over. People are dying every day. We cannot wait until this fall to start bringing our troops home. If Congress doesn't act before they leave for the summer, the only thing that will change between now and the end of the year is the body count.
Congress has a public mandate and the Constitutional authority to end this war.

LETS GO AMERICA WE OWE THIS TO OUR TROOPS DIEING FOR NOTHING BUT THE PRESIDENTS AND MR VP'S PLEASURE, AND PROFITS.....

[usayesterday]

How do you "support the troops"?


Do you:

A. Support the continuing fighting, which includes grossly extended tours of duty and overly fatigued military soldiers, in an area of the country that has never seen complete agreement, cooperation, peace, love, harmony, and all that stuff.... AND NEVER WILL SEE ANY OF THAT NO MATTER WHAT KIND OF "DEMOCRACY" EXISTS! (if any)

....OR....

B. Do you support forcing this administration to change its tactics in the battlefield (not neccessarily meaning retreat), as well as its tactics at home in helping our soldiers recover from months if not years of continued fighting in a foreign land.


As many of you may know already, "supporting our troops" is defined by how you support their survival and general well being before, during, and after the war. Simply having them fight a war and then treating them like a used tampon by throwing them in the trash after they return home...

...IS NOT SUPPORTING OUR TROOPS.

[rushlimpdrug]

" . . That'd be Michael Moore himself and he best hope he never shows his unpatriotic face around me when he's spouting his trash. . . Him and John Skerry are both traitors to this great nation and should be locked up."
Posted by Hwy71So

Son, you've got some serious anger problems. Though I would find it amusing to see you put your money where your mouth is. Anyway, take some aspirin and call Michael in the morning.

[perception5]

It's nice to see our President getting something done for the American people. Meanwhile up the street the political lynchings continue in our 110th DO-NOTHING DEMOCRAT CONGRESS with the lowest approval ratings in the history of US polling.

That's probably why our President's poll numbers are starting raise. In Rasmussen polls, which polling everyday, our President been polling 38-39% approval all week.

Come on 2008

[gkc99]

Oh yeah, there's that smirking, s**t-eating monkey in the background, while the lickspittle Repub Congress we had for 6 years couldn't be bothered to care for the wounded soldiers they are all so concerned about on TV, but the neocon scum think it's all the Dems fault, you know, the slim majority that got elected last November and gets vetoed by the Decider-in-chief.

The neocon scum are squirming like worms on a fish hook. The chimp has no problems--the billionaires he's represented so well will make sure he gets a nice warm spot as a senior fellow at the Hoover Institute or something, so he can chop brush at his phony Potemkin village in Texass.

[donnie900]

I guess I'm not as big a believer in the media as you are. Of course, I've never trusted any propaganda. "Why?" I always ask. "Why does they need that stuff?" And its true, ain't it? I mean, my God.. We give them more appropriations than any other segment of our society. More money? More technology? More training? They even have healthcare for the rest of their life!

And besides all that, propaganda ain't necessarily a good thing all the time. Especially nowadays when, one minute you're watching the down syndromed face of some politician crying "SUPPORT THE TROOPS!", and the next some movie star drinking fixation. Propaganda isn't always a good thing! And professional people shouldn't need that stuff. They do their jobs which are clear cut and simple, and then they go home. In fact, that was one of the things I liked about the military. "Clear cut"! Ya knew what ya had to do. It ain't like that once ya get out. And all this bullshyyt psychobabble media "support the troops" shyythead trophy stuff only contributes to the fallacy of false reality.

[donnie900]

What are we doing in Iraq? Huh? What are we fighting for?

Does a president owe us an explanation? Huh? About a war?

What did we have before these creeps took office? Huh? If not peace? And prosperity? And then it was.. some god damned peckkkertrack, and all of a sudden all the sweaty upper lipped people came outta the woodwork and ruined everything.

Might I suggest that we not support the troops? Don't support the troops. Save them. Save them from our stupidity. Save them from false reality. Save them from the right wing lunatics...

[donnie900]

Do you really believe that if we cloned one of the founding fathers right now? And asked him: "Hey, Mr. Jefferson! What do yaz tink about us being over der in eyerak?" What do ya think he'd say?

[donnie900]

I think I know what he'd say.

"Impeach".

[leftysgal]

fortunately this panel has only touched a splinter of the problems with the VA and military health care system. Many of the problems are so ingrained that the appearance of assistance is in itself a lie. The VA was tasked with assisting veterans in their claims, yet they continually serve as the oppresor in helping the vet get what is rightfully theirs when claims are submitted. Additionally, the system is fraught with cronyism and nepotism, so those that are familiar with the trails of being in the military and going against the system are denied positions working at the Veterans offices. More of the people working at the VA Regional offices are overly concerned with making their minmum work quota and getting their outlandish bonuses than going out of their way to help a vet. I am glad Nicholson is leaving as he has helped foster a hollow VA that only has a shiny exterior with a cancerous underbelly.

[moosbrth]

This administration is the biggest joke in history. Put new ideas on how to help the VETS, then don't implement any of it. He's stripped everything else from them, he is nothing more than $***! Impeach the ba$**** or at least put it on the table, Nancy, do you copy??????

[likeitis5050]

for an administration that campaigned for less government Bush sure has found a way to lock us up in government red tape or censorship. Nothing he campaigned on measures one degree today...'bring back integrity and personal accountability'..nope...in the dumper. 'Less government in our business'...well, now...we just don't have space to go into all the sabotage on that issue. Bush is a fraud.

[moosbrth]

I am so tired of Bush, I don't even know what to say! Impeachment isn't even the right thing, hanging may be the right thing!

[tomar0317]

All veterans from all wars should be capable of receiving benefits from the VA. Current salaries should not be a reason for turning away oue vets. We put ourselves on the line, we don't ask for much. I'm even ok with paying deductable which according to the VA folks I've talked too, makes the system pay for itself....do you here that Bush?

[swwils]

They should have had this panel do this about 30 years ago.The Veterans from a lot of other secret little wars have been suffering these same disorders for years.It is a shame that it took Iraq to open their eyes.PTSD is not a common cold it doesn't just go away,or get better.I am very glad that the soldiers will be getting some medical treatment that is deeply needed.It all begins with taking care of our own!

[lastdance2]

A Republican Presidential Commission

In 2005, a Republican Committee appeared, before The Congress saying :
The Veterans Claim, on the PTSD issue was Fraudulent.
They urged the Congress to Stop the Treatment, of the Veteran for the PTSD issue.

Also ! They urged the Congress to stop paying the Veteran.
Compensation for the veterans claim of having : PTSD.

By 1980, five (5) years after the Viet-Nam war had ended.
The combination of suicide and suicide induced accidents.

Committed by the Viet-Nam combatant, was at fifty two percent. (52%)

Which means : That within five (5) years, after the Viet-Nam war had ended.
Over half of the Viet-Nam combatants. Who had survived the war and returned home.

Were now dead - By their own hand.

The suicide rate of : The veterans of Iraqi, has already begun.

The issue of PTSD is being Scrutinized by the American Enterprise Institute.
They are saying : PTSD is a Liberal Hippie dream.

Lynne Cheney the Wife of : V.P. Cheney, Is on the Board of Directors.
(The American Enterprise Institute)

This is the Real Attitude, of the Republican Party,
The Bush - Cheney Administration's
Concern - Towards - The Combat Veterans of Today.

The Republican Party
The Bush - Cheney Administration's
Gift of Patriotism - and - Appreciation
To the Combat Veteran

Profound Display of : "Family Values"

Within their own actions - Lay - Their True Feelings.


Lastdance

[starleo146]

They are just going through the motion I do not believe a d*a*m*n thing this out of control contemptuous administration says or does any more all they care about is divide and conquer at any cost and as far as I am concerned our veterans and our troops have paid a very dear price for a contemptible commander-in-chief who all along has only cared about his power and used 30000 injuries 13000 severe injuries and 3640 dead and these injuries will never be taken care of from this government I am convinced any one that cares nothing about the constitution and has a justice system that helps him along with a supreme court all they care about is power and I say these troops have given enough but this commander-in-chief says not enough troops and fix your injuries the best way you can, Just disgusting.

[starleo146]

Last dance2 that was a great post and I think what they did to the Viet Nam veterans was also a disgrace these troops also did what was asked of them and got nothing from the America Government I always thought they deserved to be honored in some way a memorial in Wash. D.C. is nice but it was not enough and we still have Agent Orange injuries the VA is ignoring just like the GULF WAR SYNDROME they the VA will not admit a thing who is suffering our veterans and who cares certainly not our government and personally I am sick of it.POST TRAUMATIC STRESS from both wars have not been treated whatsoever.Why would you use such a golden resource in such a way I ask you?

[photogeezer]

The press has failed to address the issue of the neocons' desire to "drown government in a bathtub", as voiced by Grover Norquist. The VA, the very government agency with the facilities, and trained, dedicated people to deal with the inevitable consequences of sending young people to war, is part of the government that they want to drown. Look at the history of cuts for VA funding, the ouster of a dedicated champion of veterans' care (Rep. Chris Smith, a Republican)from the House Vets Affairs Committee, and the veiled references in these committee reports to turning vets' care over to private industry. If we think their care is not what it should be now, try turning it over to the accountants and bureaucrats who run health insurance companies.

To sneer at the VA's shortcomings, and to characterize them as an "entitlement program", while, at the same time, failing to fund them adequately, is deplorable.

BTW, the VA is hiring two LCSW's (licensed clinic social workers) to help out with vets with PTSD at the VA Vet Center in San Jose. The funding is there; someone needs to apply. See usajobs.gov.

[bb19631]

what i want to know is, how come bush only start doing these committees, when these incidents are brought out by the public eye??? when the real truth is told, he starts is mumbo jabbering....i can honestly say, i didnt vote for this idiot, president..i voted for the underdog. every time.next time you want to go to war-think about all the ramifications, first. better yet, put a gun in his hand and drop him off on the front line, see how he likes that.

[sclaires]

Yeh, I can see the red tape being cut!! If I know the Army, they will only make it worse. Nothing is going to be make easier with GWB around.