Called the VA when I had an emergency situation arise and told them I was heading on the 3hr trip to my VA Hospital, so be expecting me when I arrived. They told me do not attempt the trip, report to the XXX Hospital Emergency Room 30min away -— we are calling ahead for you and they will be waiting. Arrived at the closer hospital, received emergency care, and all is well.
BUT -—the VA never paid the bill, and they have a rule that says that if the Veteran pays even $1 toward the bill the VA is released from any responsibility and the Veteran must pay the whole bill.
Second time the VA has sent me somewhere else for treatment and then refused to pay the bill. First time kicked my credit rating in the shins for years.
The court just nullified that rule, as I understand it. Call the VA tomorrow and ask for your money.