VA disability vs FAA medical
05-31-2023, 06:07 AM
#61
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Joined APC: Apr 2013
Posts: 3,445
Originally Posted by Chillpill
I was asked which gender was I assigned at birth recently at the VA. Politely told the healthcare “professional” to eff off. Looks like the VA is letting politics rule my life. That’s some world class healthcare treatment.
Just roll your eyes and answer the question like the rest of us and take your free healthcare. The guy at MEPS asked me if I was gay when I enlisted in the military. I even had to sign something. Maybe he was hitting on me?
05-31-2023, 08:21 AM
#62
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Joined APC: Oct 2017
Posts: 68
Originally Posted by e6bpilot
Oh god, are you ok? Did you suddenly want to enter in a same sex relationship and dress your kids in drag?
Just roll your eyes and answer the question like the rest of us and take your free healthcare. The guy at MEPS asked me if I was gay when I enlisted in the military. I even had to sign something. Maybe he was hitting on me?
Just roll your eyes and answer the question like the rest of us and take your free healthcare. The guy at MEPS asked me if I was gay when I enlisted in the military. I even had to sign something. Maybe he was hitting on me?
I rather not indulge these people playing their silly games. And their games only will get more bizarre if we keep playing them.
05-31-2023, 10:11 AM
#63
Prime Minister/Moderator
Joined APC: Jan 2006
Position: Engines Turn Or People Swim
Posts: 39,293
Originally Posted by Chillpill
I rather not indulge these people playing their silly games. And their games only will get more bizarre if we keep playing them.
05-31-2023, 10:39 AM
#64
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Joined APC: Apr 2013
Posts: 3,445
Originally Posted by Chillpill
I rather not indulge these people playing their silly games. And their games only will get more bizarre if we keep playing them.
I don't play their silly games either, but the person asking the question isn't the one who is mandating that the question be asked. I agree it is eye rolling, but don't shoot the messenger and don't be a dick. Just say whatever you want or tell them you prefer not to answer the question. I doubt they care either way and based on their core clientele, I am betting they have heard it all. In the meantime, send a note to their supervisors telling them you think the question is inappropriate. In my experience, most initiatives like this in government end up changing with the political winds. You are there for the health care, check your political baggage at the door.
05-31-2023, 07:03 PM
#66
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Joined APC: Oct 2017
Posts: 68
Originally Posted by e6bpilot
So did you walk out in disgust? Did you throw their free healthcare back in their faces like a glass of wine?
I don't play their silly games either, but the person asking the question isn't the one who is mandating that the question be asked. I agree it is eye rolling, but don't shoot the messenger and don't be a dick. Just say whatever you want or tell them you prefer not to answer the question. I doubt they care either way and based on their core clientele, I am betting they have heard it all. In the meantime, send a note to their supervisors telling them you think the question is inappropriate. In my experience, most initiatives like this in government end up changing with the political winds. You are there for the health care, check your political baggage at the door.
I don't play their silly games either, but the person asking the question isn't the one who is mandating that the question be asked. I agree it is eye rolling, but don't shoot the messenger and don't be a dick. Just say whatever you want or tell them you prefer not to answer the question. I doubt they care either way and based on their core clientele, I am betting they have heard it all. In the meantime, send a note to their supervisors telling them you think the question is inappropriate. In my experience, most initiatives like this in government end up changing with the political winds. You are there for the health care, check your political baggage at the door.
06-06-2023, 12:27 AM
#67
Gets Weekends Off
Joined APC: Apr 2014
Posts: 311
Considering Filing
I retired in 2012 after 22 years of service (7 active USAF and 15 ANG full-timer). I was an aircraft mechanic for 15 years, then enlisted aircrew for six years. Been flying professionally for almost 20 years with all civilian background as a pilot. I've been getting "squeaky clean" first class medicals for years now, but at 51 years old, some of the possible military related issues are starting to show. I've always just connected them with age, but I'm starting to take another look.
My questions are, even though I just completed another first class medical, would I be shooting myself in the foot if I applied for VA disability in another month or two, even though I retired 11 years ago? Should I go back to my AME first before applying or apply with the VA, then report the filing to the FAA after that? I currently fly for a living and am hesitant to apply since I don't want to get grounded immediately while the VA and FAA drag their feet. I'm sure many reading this will wonder why I waited so long to consider this. Well, the reason is that I've been relatively fine all these years so I haven't put much thought to anything regarding my health. Now however, things are starting to creep in a little bit. I know the time to do this is now if I'm going to file, but I don't want to screw myself for trying to do the right thing. I appreciate the advice.
My questions are, even though I just completed another first class medical, would I be shooting myself in the foot if I applied for VA disability in another month or two, even though I retired 11 years ago? Should I go back to my AME first before applying or apply with the VA, then report the filing to the FAA after that? I currently fly for a living and am hesitant to apply since I don't want to get grounded immediately while the VA and FAA drag their feet. I'm sure many reading this will wonder why I waited so long to consider this. Well, the reason is that I've been relatively fine all these years so I haven't put much thought to anything regarding my health. Now however, things are starting to creep in a little bit. I know the time to do this is now if I'm going to file, but I don't want to screw myself for trying to do the right thing. I appreciate the advice.
06-06-2023, 04:15 AM
#68
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Joined APC: Jun 2007
Position: 767/757 CA
Posts: 2,610
Originally Posted by MidnightHauler
I retired in 2012 after 22 years of service (7 active USAF and 15 ANG full-timer). I was an aircraft mechanic for 15 years, then enlisted aircrew for six years. Been flying professionally for almost 20 years with all civilian background as a pilot. I've been getting "squeaky clean" first class medicals for years now, but at 51 years old, some of the possible military related issues are starting to show. I've always just connected them with age, but I'm starting to take another look.
My questions are, even though I just completed another first class medical, would I be shooting myself in the foot if I applied for VA disability in another month or two, even though I retired 11 years ago? Should I go back to my AME first before applying or apply with the VA, then report the filing to the FAA after that? I currently fly for a living and am hesitant to apply since I don't want to get grounded immediately while the VA and FAA drag their feet. I'm sure many reading this will wonder why I waited so long to consider this. Well, the reason is that I've been relatively fine all these years so I haven't put much thought to anything regarding my health. Now however, things are starting to creep in a little bit. I know the time to do this is now if I'm going to file, but I don't want to screw myself for trying to do the right thing. I appreciate the advice.
My questions are, even though I just completed another first class medical, would I be shooting myself in the foot if I applied for VA disability in another month or two, even though I retired 11 years ago? Should I go back to my AME first before applying or apply with the VA, then report the filing to the FAA after that? I currently fly for a living and am hesitant to apply since I don't want to get grounded immediately while the VA and FAA drag their feet. I'm sure many reading this will wonder why I waited so long to consider this. Well, the reason is that I've been relatively fine all these years so I haven't put much thought to anything regarding my health. Now however, things are starting to creep in a little bit. I know the time to do this is now if I'm going to file, but I don't want to screw myself for trying to do the right thing. I appreciate the advice.
06-06-2023, 05:05 AM
#69
Gets Weekends Off
Joined APC: Apr 2013
Posts: 3,445
Originally Posted by MidnightHauler
I retired in 2012 after 22 years of service (7 active USAF and 15 ANG full-timer). I was an aircraft mechanic for 15 years, then enlisted aircrew for six years. Been flying professionally for almost 20 years with all civilian background as a pilot. I've been getting "squeaky clean" first class medicals for years now, but at 51 years old, some of the possible military related issues are starting to show. I've always just connected them with age, but I'm starting to take another look.
My questions are, even though I just completed another first class medical, would I be shooting myself in the foot if I applied for VA disability in another month or two, even though I retired 11 years ago? Should I go back to my AME first before applying or apply with the VA, then report the filing to the FAA after that? I currently fly for a living and am hesitant to apply since I don't want to get grounded immediately while the VA and FAA drag their feet. I'm sure many reading this will wonder why I waited so long to consider this. Well, the reason is that I've been relatively fine all these years so I haven't put much thought to anything regarding my health. Now however, things are starting to creep in a little bit. I know the time to do this is now if I'm going to file, but I don't want to screw myself for trying to do the right thing. I appreciate the advice.
My questions are, even though I just completed another first class medical, would I be shooting myself in the foot if I applied for VA disability in another month or two, even though I retired 11 years ago? Should I go back to my AME first before applying or apply with the VA, then report the filing to the FAA after that? I currently fly for a living and am hesitant to apply since I don't want to get grounded immediately while the VA and FAA drag their feet. I'm sure many reading this will wonder why I waited so long to consider this. Well, the reason is that I've been relatively fine all these years so I haven't put much thought to anything regarding my health. Now however, things are starting to creep in a little bit. I know the time to do this is now if I'm going to file, but I don't want to screw myself for trying to do the right thing. I appreciate the advice.
Aches and pains, blown knees, etc are generally no questions asked. Even sleep apnea isn't really a big deal anymore as long as you work with a good FAA doc.
PTSD, TBI, headaches, heart issues, and things of that nature are going to cause questions.
Best of luck. I can tell you from my family's experience, it's better to be 50, relatively healthy, and going through the process than being 85, in failing health, and wishing you did it earlier. The VA can be a lifesaver later in life when health care gets a little more complicated and necessary for survival.
06-06-2023, 12:19 PM
#70
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Joined APC: Apr 2014
Posts: 311
Originally Posted by e6bpilot
As mentioned above, for most things you would be fine. Reach out to a VSO to start the process. They will help you navigate the labyrinthine wickets you need to go through. It is a little more difficult to start the process post separation, but my grandfather got 100 percent VA 60 years after being shot twice in a war and his records got destroyed in a fire, so it can happen. The recent burn pit legislation has made it easier for many items. Just beware of the VSO pursuing items that will be show stoppers for a FAA medical because you have to report it all on your physical.
Aches and pains, blown knees, etc are generally no questions asked. Even sleep apnea isn't really a big deal anymore as long as you work with a good FAA doc.
PTSD, TBI, headaches, heart issues, and things of that nature are going to cause questions.
Best of luck. I can tell you from my family's experience, it's better to be 50, relatively healthy, and going through the process than being 85, in failing health, and wishing you did it earlier. The VA can be a lifesaver later in life when health care gets a little more complicated and necessary for survival.
Aches and pains, blown knees, etc are generally no questions asked. Even sleep apnea isn't really a big deal anymore as long as you work with a good FAA doc.
PTSD, TBI, headaches, heart issues, and things of that nature are going to cause questions.
Best of luck. I can tell you from my family's experience, it's better to be 50, relatively healthy, and going through the process than being 85, in failing health, and wishing you did it earlier. The VA can be a lifesaver later in life when health care gets a little more complicated and necessary for survival.
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