Originally Posted by
rickair7777
I am familiar.
The VA doc will only go through your record if you let him. You don't have to ever have anything to do with the VA as a service member or vet unless you want to, and make an appointment and go see them.
During a VA review, you sign paperwork to apply for disability. You don't have to sign that, and you can be selective about what you apply for.
People engage with the VA because $. And it's a whole lot less money than a major airline career. Need to be smart about it.
THIS.
I've been very fortunate to have made it through my military service and still be in reasonably good condition though the beating I took has left me with more than a few aches and pains. I've made a few laps around the sun so I'm sure that can have an affect as well LOL. I remember how they used to harp to everyone in uniform on "don't worry about mental health counseling as it won't affect your clearance/career" I told them they need to understand that the FAA isn't bound by any of that and is not nearly as charitable. On a side note another thing that kept people away from the the VA process was being put on med hold after a deployment while you received screening/care for injuries sustained during the deployment. Imagine being stuck in trashy barracks 1000 miles from home for 6 extra months or more while the military tried to get its act together. Pretty big motivator to keep your mouth shut. The average Joe with no aviation ties is looking at a check of the month club so maximizing dollars is the goal and that makes sense for them. Bottom line is life is all about risk/benefit/reward and everyone has to do the math for their situation.