I was not in Viet Nam, so I am not able to be treated at the VA.That's no longer true and is actually part of the problem.
All vets have qualified for health care for many years now, and the extent of that coverage is based on several factors. (See the
VA Priority table.)
However, this policy of "everyone qualifies" just increases the burden for all VA facilities nationwide and is stressing the system to the max (I'm not defending the VA - it's just a logical consequence).
If the H/C benefit was only available to those who had service connected injuries, the current VA tragedy might not have happened.
I’m not saying you are wrong, but a few years ago, when I went in to ask, I was told to my face that I did not qualify because I did not serve in Viet Nam. Also, I was informed by E-Mail of the same when I contacted the VA on line. But you are right to point out that if I don’t need to be treated there, it is best to leave it alone for the sake of others. So I will.