Although this is an older post, I thought I might add a bit in case someone is browsing.

The VA can certainly be difficult to navigate but once you find the key players your frustration will lessen considerably. Patient advocates are a great resource as are most VSOs. If you are going through cancer treatments contact the Cancer Navigation team at your nearest VA medical Center. Ours has 3 full time Social Workers who are all amazing.

Not only can they answer questions and concerns, they can start processes for equipment requests, second opinion requests, palliative or hospice care, help speed up authorizations through VA Community Care or just be an understanding ear. They have even helped us with getting community care records added to my husband's VA file and advised us when we filed an increased service connected disability rating due to lung cancer.

Wishing everyone the best of luck on this incredibly difficult journey.