Some vets "falling through the cracks" of the VA medical system

Some vets "falling through the cracks" of the VA medical system
Tim Goff, Multimedia Journalist

PORTLAND, Maine (NEWS CENTER) -- A couple from southern Maine are speaking out about issues they are having with the Veterans Administration receiving treatment and payments for care.

Brian Barron enlisted in the Marine Corps in 1966. He served a tour in Vietnam, was wounded and received a purple heart. Barron was honorably discharged in 1969.

"When he was over in Nam, he was exposed to Agent Orange and now he has Parkinson's Disease," explained Brian's wife, Sally.

Brian Barron also suffers from Post Traumatic Stress Disorder.

"It really bothers me to see him going through this, and to see him cry because he feels useless," said Sally. "Laying in the bed and not being able to do things for himself, and not being able to help me, and lead the life that he was used to living."

Brian has been shuttled in and out of medical facilities throughout southern Maine for the past two years, dealing with these ailments that the Barron's claim are a result of his service to his country. Many times when Brian is hospitalized, the Barron's are faced with denials in coverage and have to pay for treatments and medications out of pocket.

"With the VA you have to call to get permission to bring him to a hospital here in Portland," said Sally. "If they don't feel it's necessary, or you don't get the right people, they won't pay for the transfer to the hospital or they won't pay for the hospital bill."
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Some vets falling through the cracks of the VA medical system