Question:
Hello, I received care at a private facility because the VA could not see me in a timely manner for my service connected disability so they referred me to the VA choice in May 2016. While waiting for an appointment for a private doc, I required emergency surgery. I called the choice hotline prior to seeing this doc and was told I could go to him as long as he agreed to take me under the program, which he did, but I'm now being sent to collections because the VA didn't pay the bill. I've been trying to talk to everyone I can, the VA patient advocate, Tricare, Choice Champion hotline, but I keep getting referred and the end persons will not return my calls. I don't know where to go or who to talk to that can help me and actually answer/return my calls. I'm being sent to collections over this and I followed every step the VA asked of me for my health care. any help is appreciated, do I need to get a lawyer involved?
Jim's Reply:
I'd recommend that you get your Congressional representatives involved. Click here for contact information.