Sorry State of America's Healthcare

Elmer E
Oak Hill, OH
Heathcare Status: Uninsured

I am uninsured; I do have Medicare. I get my medical care through the VA System. The VA Healthcare isn't what it used to be. Have had cancer of the bladder, high blood pressure, and nerve damage in the Lumbar region of my spine. And I have noticed a laxed will from VA on not following up with timely appointments on my problems. My urologist at the VA said the cancer had a 70% chance of returning. This is a very high percentage, and this worries me tremendously. Yet, in latter months following the cancer treatment, my scheduling of return check-ups has been curtailed (I feel) more than they should be. After all, it is my life, not theirs, and I like living as well as they do. Lumbar nerve damage: The great doctor, Neurologist, he sent me for an MRI outside of the VA system--that has been at least one month ago (or more)-but since the MRI, I have not received an appointment or follow-up to gauge the damage. My left foot and leg does have patchy numbness along with some pain in the lumbar region of my spine. * I am lucky I have the VA. And without the VA, I would be in dire straights for medical care--I cannot afford the Prescription Card or co-pays. VA care certainly can be improved but better than having nothing.

Submitted on May 10, 2008 - 7:24am.