How does a Disabled Veteran get into Mayo Clinic?

Posted by gcranor @gcranor, Jul 22, 2022

I have been suffering from chronic pain (8 back surgeries), a pain pump (it the best thing that helps), urinating problems (6 catheters a day), digestive issues. I have asked my VA doctors to refer me to the Jacksonville Mayo Clinic so I can get a team of doctors to work together and figure out a real plan instead of chasing issues without working together. Oh I also have dementia (lost of long term memory, trouble speaking, migraines, lost my filters, and find it difficult to answer questions).
Is there away to convince the VA to refer me to community care to a Mayo Clinic for a work up.

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Colleen Young, Connect Director | @colleenyoung | Jul 22, 2022

Hi @gcranor, Veterans across the US may be eligible for unique care for complex health issues at Mayo Clinic in Arizona, Mayo Clinic in Florida, and Mayo Clinic in Minnesota. This expanded access is a result of Mayo Clinic’s participation in the Department of Veterans Affairs’ (VA) Community Care Network. Read more about the VA Community Care Network here: https://www.va.gov/COMMUNITYCARE/index.asp

Mayo Clinic expanded its commitment to serving veterans by participating in VA Community Care Network in August 1, 2020. Read more here: https://newsnetwork.mayoclinic.org/discussion/mayo-clinic-expands-commitment-to-serving-veterans-by-participating-in-va-community-care-network-beginning-august-1-2020/

Fellow members like @19lin @eott6913 @johnbishop @richcolleen may have some additional advice to offer from their experiences. You can see some of their tips and experiences in this related discussion:
- VA assistance: Anyone dealing with VA? Tips? https://connect.mayoclinic.org/discussion/va-assistance/

To find out if you are eligible for care through the Community Care Network and wish to be considered for care at Mayo Clinic, Florida or another location using your VA benefits, contact your VA care team/coordinator to discuss your options.

To talk to someone at Mayo Clinic, you can call Mayo in Jacksonville during business hours 904-953-0853.