How can I find out if my dad qualifies for Veterans help?

I studied public health in graduate school with a focus on Agent Orange and GIS research. A common skin condition for veterans exposed to Agent Orange or other defoliants is chloracne. Is that what he has?

I know for a fact that the VA is trying to upgrade its software to process claims much faster. I worked many years with claims management, medical billing, patient services, and other data processed through the internet with a web portal or system. Here is the VA web portal. Read the information carefully. You may be able to do all of it online if your dad has his miitary service records in your home.

http://benefits.va.gov/COMPENSATION/apply.asp?expa...

Here is a 2nd link for Agent Orange and claims management.

http://www.benefits.va.gov/compensation/claims-pos...

Each state also usually has a health department with Medicaid and other services for people with disabilities. Your dad may qualify for some programs.

http://www.health.wyo.gov/

Be thankful your father is alive. Many soldiers did not survive that war.

(Note I don't have control over any ad that may show up 1st).

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=bFbD-VNWGYM

Do what the VA hospital in Cheyenne suggested.The sooner he gets the process started, the closer he will be to getting help. He can also apply for VA benefits online at www.va.gov using the VONAPP link.

He will need a copy of his DD-214, which is a short record of his military service. If he does not have a copy, he can apply for one at this website <www.archives.gov/veterans/military-service-records/>

The process will probably be slow, so be patient. If it is determined that he has service related disabilities, he will get medical care for them from the VA. He might even qualify for VA disability benefits. Vietnam veterans with possible exposure to Agent Orange are supposed to be given a higher care priority by the VA.

For help with this matter, you might want to contact the local VFW, American Legion, or Disabled American Vets office for advice. They usually have points of contact that could assist you.

If you are unsure if he will get any "good coverage," remember that having even some coverage is better than having none. I wish you well.

How does he know he has PTSD ???

Has he been diagnosed by a Military or VA Doctor ???

Has he ever filed a Claim for it at the VA Regional Office...

He maybe eligible for a VA Pension...???

You need to contact a Veterans Service Officer

from the County or State or DAV to file a Claim...

Also as already stated go to the VA Medical Facility to register...

The other postings have some great information. But in my case, I was able to apply online by using the first source link I posted below.

If you still prefer to work with a live person who is familiar with the application process, you can contact a Service Officer with a local American Legion post. Click on the second source link I posted below for more information.

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With proof of his discharge (and service) your father is eligible for free medical treatment.

With your father's service history he should also contact the local County Veteran Service Officer (VSO) and begin the process of filing a claim for service-connected disability. It is not a quick or an easy process, but it can be done.

You need your father to find his DD-214 (discharge papers). He's eligible for treatment from the VA but it might take a while to get him into the system. Your mom is not eligible. Have they tried Medicaid? SSI?

With no income he qualifies for free treatment. It's just that getting him into the system could take some time.

"My dad has a skin disease.."

"..in Vietnam from '71 to '73."

Veterans' Diseases Associated with Agent Orange

http://www.publichealth.va.gov/exposures/agentoran...

Just contact a VA Clinic. You can find one near you on Google.

Just have them find his military records.

If he was discharged Honorably, then he will get VA Benefits.