What's Wrong with the VA Benefits System?
Former Veterans Affairs Secretary Robert Wilkie has raised concerns about the current veterans benefits system, arguing it prioritizes financial compensation over helping veterans reintegrate into civilian society.
The Core Critique
Wilkie stated that the system is focused on getting veterans checks and not getting them well and getting them back into society. He emphasized that the Veterans Affairs department should prioritize rehabilitation and successful post-military transitions rather than distributing disability payments.
During a roundtable discussion, Wilkie suggested that many support groups inadvertently encourage veterans to pursue disability claims. He remarked that it is almost as if they encourage them to play disability, and it is incredibly destructive to the system.
Scope of Eligibility Concerns
Wilkie questioned whether the list of compensable conditions has become too expansive. He contends that some ailments attributed to military service may actually result from natural aging processes, incentivizing veterans to seek VA payouts instead of pursuing employment and civilian integration.
The data reflects significant change: approximately 40% of post-9/11 veterans receive service-connected disability benefits, compared to roughly 26% of all veterans nationwide.
Systemic Resistance to Reform
Wilkie characterized the VA as incredibly resistant to reform and criticized veterans advocacy groups for consistently pushing to expand benefits rather than targeting support to those with genuine military-related needs. He noted that prioritizing Purple Heart recipients generated substantial opposition from both advocacy organizations and Congress members.
The Broader Conversation
Daniel Gade, a retired Army lieutenant colonel, authored “Wounding Warriors: How Bad Policy is Making America’s Veterans Sicker and Poorer,” aiming to spark discussions about comprehensive reforms to the disability compensation process.
The VA processed over one million disability claims last fiscal year, with growing backlogs attributed to pandemic delays and new eligibility requirements.
If you or a loved one has questions about veterans benefits or elder law issues, do not hesitate to contact The Stegall Law Firm for a consultation.
