My husband is a Vietnam Vet and so his medical needs are served by the Veterans Administration. I take him to his appointments about twice a week and often sit in on his consultations with the doctor(s).

I have nothing but good things to say about the VA. They listen to his complaints/concerns, they review his case files regularly, they send him for tests galore and prescribe medications for everything.

I have never seen him rushed or ignored or belittled. He is always treated with great care, both for his health and for his self-respect. It's wonderful and I'm so glad he gets the medical care he needs.

For my part, I try to ensure that he follows up on their advice and medications, though he resists and often will not do as they ask. It must be terribly depressing to medical professionals when they do their best for patients and then the patients don't follow through.

I wish I could get care for myself that was half as good. I like my doctor, but a 10 minute visit is rare and I wait long periods in the waiting room/examining room to see him. He can't recommend anything but the most basic of tests (HMO) and doesn't have the time anyway to really listen to what I have to say. I guess I'll just have to get really sick some day for anyone to pay attention.