Partner Jeff Milman authored the article, “What Does the Affordable Care Act Mean for Veterans?” published by Orange County Lawyer discussing the hot button issue of the Patient Protection Affordability Care Act (PPACA) and how it will specifically effect veterans.
There is speculation that, with the implementation of PPACA, the private sector will be overloaded with patients. This would make the VA more appealing to veterans; however, neither the VA nor the PPACA covers sufficient in-home health care for veterans who are asked to recuperate at home.
At the same time, the health care received by veterans often falls below where it should be. The fact that many veterans see different physicians and medical providers each time they seek treatment increases the likelihood of substandard care. Despite the help of attorneys and activists moving toward better care for our veterans, there is still a long way to go.
Mr. Milman concludes saying, “Ultimately, whether the PPACA affects veterans will depend on whether the veteran chooses to stay within the VA system or go outside of it and use private healthcare. In order to keep veterans in the VA system, we need to make serious improvements in the level of care.”