After listening to Randi yesterday give stories about vets

[momophile]

and the VA crap that they've put up with, I was remembering that I just saw a local job posting for the VA. Part of me wants to work there so I could try to make a difference. But would I be absorbed by the system? Would I become part of the problem? Would I become too bitter?

Does anyone have any thoughts on working for the VA? There just must be a lot of good people that work for them, right?

[AllegroRondo]

1. Its like many other jobs or big employers

Ive met some really good people who worked for the VA, that really cared about what they were doing and tried to make a difference. I also met people who seemed to be there just to punch the clock and get their check.

If you care, you CAN make a difference.

[momophile]

3. I knew there had to be some good people there

I imagine a lot of the crap that goes on is just red tape. Still, it seems that the VA should value their compassionate employees, if ever an agency needed them.

[billyskank]

2. I know not what the "VA crap" is of which you speak

so I cannot offer an opinion.

[JustABozoOnThisBus]

10. Well, how does the Ministry of Defence treat veterans

coming back from various nasty assignments? Especially wounded, disabled, stressed?

If they are housed in decent, clean buildings, have access to competent and caring counselors or therapists, then they are ahead of many in the U.S.

[wryter2000]

4. Someone who works at the VA also called in

He was a sensitive and caring person. He wanted people to know that the people who work at the VA aren't the problem. It's the government that's the problem. Randi agreed.

I'd have a problem dealing with the stress of so many vets not getting their needs met.

[momophile]

5. thanks.

I didn't hear this call to Randi (I was in and out of the car). It would be stressful and I don't know how long I could do it, but it seems like every good person is needed.
:hi:

[wryter2000]

13. Lots of good people are needed

If that's what you want to do, go for it.

:hi:

[InternalDialogue]

6. My brother did his residency at a VA hospital.

It is in an area that hosts a terrific residency, but most docs leave the area when they're done, either for money or a better location and lifestyle.

When my brother finished, he decided to stay, for the specific reason that if good doctors didn't stay at VA hospitals, when would they ever get better?

Yes, there are good people, and you don't become part of the problem until you stop trying to make a damaged system better.

[momophile]

7. sounds like you have a pretty good brother

thanks for sharing that.

Funny, I was just thinking that I need to put more faith back into my signature line. I know it's true; I should live by it all the time.

[SeattleGirl]

8. I agree with another poster -- the problem isn't the people who

work at the VA; it's the government not providing enough people, good facilities, medical treatment that is the problem.

I say go for it, and, if by chance you don't get the job but still want to help, look into the volunteer program. You could still make a difference.

[momophile]

9. thanks, SeattleGirl

I think you are right. And the idea to volunteer is a good one.
:hi:

[bridgit]

11. before he died, my dad would always say he would avoid at all cost...

going to a VA hospital :kick:

[Monkeyman]

12. Here is my opinion

I been all over the Country with vets. Each VA has problems but they are not because of people who work there. Its Budget cuts lack of new equipment, lack of staff and just plain underfunded. Now are some better the others hell yes. There is a major problem at the clinics. But are workers the problem no just over worked