Probably Obvious, But Always Go Through The VAMC First
I just wanted to share a quick experience to prevent others from getting the runaround from the VA. I’m probably just dumb and this was complete common sense.
I’ve been working with neurology to get some migraine glasses. Even though I can, I haven’t use the VA’s Eye Clinic. I told my neurologist I had an upcoming appointment with my outside optometrist to get my updated annual screening + new prescription. They told me to bring that prescription back to the VA and then the Eye Clinic would get me fitted for the frames I need.
I did call the eye clinic and they told me to bring in the prescription, no issues.
Well, did exactly what neuro + the eye clinic recommended, and the eye clinic shut it down immediately. They asked if the VA authorized my eye appointment as community care, and I said no, I just go on my own since I just pay a copay. They didn’t like that answer and said that they cannot accept the prescription because it was not through the VA (or VA Community Care).
Now, they had to schedule me for an internal eye appointment that is still a little less than 60 days out so, I can’t make the argument for community care at the point since it’s past the window.
All of this to say, if you’re not sure, just make sure you VALIDATE the process with all involved VA clinics rather than finding out afterwards.