Question:

In the past I was able to have my blood work done at my family doctor's office and I brought a copy of it to my VA yearly exam. My problem is that the VA has a hard time taking my blood without trying several times. My old VA doctor has retired and now my new doctor says that I have to have my blood work done by the VA or I'll lose my all my prescriptions.

Jim's Reply:

There are 2 reasons that VA doctors want you to have your labs done at the VA. 
 

They'll tell you that different labs have different standards that 'values' are measured by. The doctor wants to see what he or she is used to seeing and trusts. This is sort of legit, sort of bogus. Although one lab may have a different range of values for a given test, the report clearly states what those values are and it gives you the normal and abnormal limits. Any competent caregiver can look at any lab's work and figure it out with no problems.
 

The real reason is that they want to be sure you're drug tested. The VA screens everyone who walks through the doors for substance use and abuse. If you pop positive on a drug test nothing will happen to your benefits but some of your prescriptions may be altered. If you currently take any opioid or other drugs that are prescribed by a mental health provider VA may stop filling those prescriptions for you.
 

I support VA treating substance abuse as a health problem rather than a criminal matter. I do not support the clandestine approach that VA typically takes with every encounter. 
 

So far as VA having trouble drawing your blood...that isn't VA, that's the person drawing it. It can happen anywhere to anyone...former phlebotomist speaking. I was one who could draw blood from a stone and I occasionally missed. After 2 unsuccessful sticks, politely ask for another phlebotomist.
 

Don't use that as an excuse to avoid VA. Good luck!