I am a retired 30 year Marine who uses the Manila Out Patient Clinic. You are absolutely spot on. Very grateful that I have TRICARE because the OPC is very limited. There will not be any hospitals built. We will only have periodic rotational presence at 9 fairly remote bases. No PXs, commissaries or any other US facilities. Subic and Clark are not on the list
The VA website indicates this clinic will only treat service connected issue's period. As for the bases it has been pretty clear the forces are rotational not permanently stationed. Does not matter how many bases they open. That has been pretty clear in all the news coverage as well. Lots of folks should have service connection for selective hearing
Your absolutely right regarding service connected Steve. In 2009 I got cellulitis when I was in Negros. I got treated by a local doctor and it didn’t completely go away. So I happened to be visiting in Manila area and called the clinic. Told the guy on the phone my problem and he basically told me they would not help me because it wasn’t service connected. The guy telling me wasn’t even American. That bothered me more than anything else. So I went to a local hospital and was admitted and stayed on an antibiotic IV for 3 days. Cost me $500 US .
I have tried to warn veterans for the last 4 years about the extent of VA health care here in the Philippines. You are absolutely correct. The current Philippines constitution does not allow foreign bases. The workaround is we are being OFFERED SPACE on Filipino bases. Filipino facilities, Filipino commanders. I think that we will not see American hospitals, PX/BX, commissary, etc.
im 100% with a heart failure condition among a few other issues. I am planning on heading there within the next week or so to at least get into the Philippine computer system. Planning on being here full time within the next 3-5 years hopefully.
I'm 100% and I don't use the VA Clinic here because #1- I need to see a Hemotologist monthly and they don't have a hemotologist on staff. #2- It's cheaper to (get my medication) and see a hemotologist in Cebu than it would be to travel to/back from Manila every month. So, I keep my VA doctors back in my Home State and I see them when I go back every year for the Holidays. I get my doctor in the US to give me a 6 month supply of my blood thinner medication and I bring it back to the Philippines with me. So, I'm only on the hook for the remaining 6 months when I get back.
But Steve, I'm 100% permanent & total, although I've never been there I know better than you! Just kidding! Thanks for keeping it clear for folks so they have the appropriate expectations when they arrive!
The only reason the VA is in the Philippines is for the retired Filipino's who were recruited by the US Navy. The deal ended when the bases closed in 1992, so the VA could leave at any time. Is there a VA Clinic in Germany, or Japan, or Korea, NO. Reason, there was no Base Agreement recruiting local nationals. Be happy it is even there at all.
I e got a question about this. I am 100% P&T and live up in Vigan and one of my benefits is a free dental and eye exam each year and was wondering if they do that at the VA clinic in Manila and how do I get set up to get seen for my service connected issues at the clinic in Manila. Thanks in advance. Oh and I do have TRICARE as well
Thanks Steve for making a video to clear that up. A lot of veterans need to know exactly what to expect from the Manila VA Clinic. Maybe someone will also do a video about the VA Clinic in Guam. I've heard a lot of vets think they can go there also to get treated.
I served in the height push to end the Cold War in the 80's. We were breaking rules that never should have been broken. Our exposure limits had waivers issued, without officially telling us. Women were discharged if they wanted to get pregnant. All of this was done under classification. We are far more susceptible to cancer, heart failure, embolisms, kids with birth defects, etc. What does our beloved VA say to me. "They wouldn't be allowed to do that to you. It would be illegal. Can you prove it?" So I have to pay for everything at full rate. My beloved VA.
Sounds like most of you should have stayed in the USA. From inflated sweet spot budgets, $50 thousand dollar emergency funds and 90% of you require some kind of medical care. I'm glad I'm in the 50+ category that's living like a king on $1,500 a month and healthy and happier than ever here in Davao.
Steve, tell your subscribers get a copy of the foreign medical program with the VA and read it. It makes it abundantly clear what care you can get and what care you cannot get.
Excellent info that guys need to know! To expand on that, you can't use Guam as a work around either. Hawaii VA controls that clinic and they told me that you have to have a Guam address to be seen there.
You are very right.. I read somewhere that VA MNL will treat you for service connected and you can also use Foreign Medical Program which is a bit more time consuming, and that's it...
Great video. I was under the impression I'd get zero help at the clinic. I'll be too far away to make it viable but it is good to know that I might be able to at least talk to them. It's looking more and more like I'll probably maintain a US address. VA care here is just really great. Nowadays you really don't have to do much in person. I've been getting my meds for 3 years without ever going to physically see a doctor.
Understand that. I am non service connected veteran and wish they would at least be able to fill prescriptions. I got all my prescriptions in USA for $8 for each one. I think out of pocket cost me $56 per month. Since my private health insurance doesn't cover them here it is $200 per month out of pocket. Of course va in USA will not mail prescriptions to other countries. It is what it is and I had to accept it but wish I could at least get medicines. Surprised you are getting lot of guys questioning the policy in manilla va.
I just moved here last month and surely thought that the VA would give me a prescription for Vicatin for my service-connected back condition; they stopped doing that last October. (The story of my life)!
Thanks Buddy! I'm 100% TDIU but 90% Service Connected, so I will get coverage thru Pacific Cross or another Company when I get to Navak, Biliran on March 9th. I already have 90 day supply of my meds,
I can't speak for the VA in the PI but here is the USA I go to the VA (retired Navy) twice a year for blood work and BP Meds. There are three types of people in the clinic 1) Purple Heart Vets, 2) Vets in business attire for an appointment and back to work 3) the rest don't have a pot to piss in or a window to throw it out of and use the VA as their primary health care provider. The VA was never intended to be used in that fashion but due to the political climate they see everyone now regardless of if you are service connected or not. I know some people talk about op'ing out of Part B and using the VA instead, very stupid on their part. I'm not a fan of people who abuse the VA as if it owes them something for just being a Vet. Very abused system. Thank you, off my soap box, carry on.
For the most part they will be bare bases. With forward logistics setup. We had the same concept in Korea where we used active Korean military bases but would only rotate in troops/aircraft for Team Spirit / Ulchi-Freedom or whatever it is called now. My gripe is that Tricare is treated as the ugly step child in the Philippines, not covering things that should be covered under the plan. Tricare would not even cover a prescription from an in hospital pharmacies. Contact your Congress person before moving to the Philippines, if they get enough angry veterans complaining they may do something.
How about our GIC health and Medicare benefits? Is it worth it to maintain it so that we can use it if and when we return to the USA for a healthcare visit? Also, how do you deal with the not having healthcare fines at tax time in the USA? And is it possible to have our Silverscript drugs forwarded to the Philippines?
It can be confusing about who can qualify for medical care at the VA. I'm retired military and I didn't think I could use the VA but after meeting three other veterans who served less than a year and never leaving the USA were receiving medical care at the VA, I thought surely if they qualify I do. One guy I know doesn't pay his part A Medicare because he expects the VA to take care of him.
Federal Employee Retirees should keep in mind that Federal Blue Cross/Blue Shield will cover them overseas. However, it is by reimbursement after care. The retiree goes out of pocket in most cases. There are certain Hospital’s globally that will bill directly, but it is on a case-by-cases basis. The only other Federal plan that covers medical is the American Foreign Service Medical Plan. This plan covers a bit more and is easier to use with no translation necessary for billing. The one caveat, is that the Federal employee must have the plan for one year during their career in order to select it in retirement. Just a heads up for Fed employees nearing retirement or already retired.
I will be moving there in March 2024. I have about 6 months worth of medications to bring with me. Will I be able to get all the meds that the VA in the US prescribes ? Also what happens if they they don’t have a medication that I am on at VA Manila, will they order it?
Are you a part of the foreign medical program? I am 100% Service connected and I am also permanently and totally. All I need is my annual physical. I am capable of providing my own medical care over there.
Hi. Thank you for the info. It was helpful: do you have Any advice on how to transfer money once we are in the Philippines. Especially for VA who need their money transferred into a Philippines bank account. Citibank just closed their global transfer access and there are no other Philippine banks in Las Vegas
The only thing that I can get from the VA clinic in Manila is a physical exam and Blood tests every 6 months. My Doctor there apologizes that she can't do all the things I need. I also was able to get the Covid vaccines from them. Everything else, I have to go to the Tagaytay Medical Clinic at my expense. I don't think the influx of American troops will change a thing about our medical care.
My dad was under the same assumptions too, even here in the US. Until the VA set him straight. Yes, they provided all his care, no problem. Not because he was service related. But because he was on SS, and had Medicare. They administer for Medicare. Without the Medicare, they basically tell you to take a hike. People assume too much without looking up the info. Sad.
Question I have been asking but no one answers???? how much does it cost for a funeral cost if I die there? I have creamation insurance but my girl friend is against it. so how much will it cost? why will no one do a vid. on this, It is Important.
Some American vets give America a bad name. My wichita ks veteran hospital is awesome and I see vets going off in waiting area about small stuff. Their numbers are low but they can give all vets a bad name.
It seems more from USA go to PH and most from EU go to Thailand. I believe religion plays a big role in this. Also, it also seems military service is another. But, why go to the PH and not less expensive US towns? Is it reminiscing about the fun days of Subic and Angeles red zones? Those days are long over. Or, is it the delusion a young lady might actually love them more than their ATM card?
Excellent video. What year did the va in Manila stop seeing people for not serVice connected issues? Has this always been the case? What year is the Clark hospital close?
Clinic only? That's poor. Basically the VA there is no help really and to have to jump through hoops. I can use my company clinic at work or urgent care in my neighborhood covered by the VA.
I am a retired 30 year Marine who uses the Manila Out Patient Clinic. You are absolutely spot on. Very grateful that I have TRICARE because the OPC is very limited.
There will not be any hospitals built. We will only have periodic rotational presence at 9 fairly remote bases. No PXs, commissaries or any other US facilities. Subic and Clark are not on the list
Very good you pointed this out. I am sure many people are very intetested in this. Thank you.
Thanks for watching!
Great info about the VA clinic and the US coming back to shared bases.
Please all take your health seriously folks. Any serious health problems you're better off staying home rather than living here.
The VA website indicates this clinic will only treat service connected issue's period. As for the bases it has been pretty clear the forces are rotational not permanently stationed. Does not matter how many bases they open. That has been pretty clear in all the news coverage as well. Lots of folks should have service connection for selective hearing
Your absolutely right regarding service connected Steve. In 2009 I got cellulitis when I was in Negros. I got treated by a local doctor and it didn’t completely go away. So I happened to be visiting in Manila area and called the clinic. Told the guy on the phone my problem and he basically told me they would not help me because it wasn’t service connected. The guy telling me wasn’t even American. That bothered me more than anything else. So I went to a local hospital and was admitted and stayed on an antibiotic IV for 3 days. Cost me $500 US .
I have tried to warn veterans for the last 4 years about the extent of VA health care here in the Philippines. You are absolutely correct. The current Philippines constitution does not allow foreign bases. The workaround is we are being OFFERED SPACE on Filipino bases. Filipino facilities, Filipino commanders. I think that we will not see American hospitals, PX/BX, commissary, etc.
What's the big deal? You can see a good doctor for 8 to 12 dollars
$6 for my Doctor here
im 100% with a heart failure condition among a few other issues. I am planning on heading there within the next week or so to at least get into the Philippine computer system. Planning on being here full time within the next 3-5 years hopefully.
I'm 100% and I don't use the VA Clinic here because #1- I need to see a Hemotologist monthly and they don't have a hemotologist on staff. #2- It's cheaper to (get my medication) and see a hemotologist in Cebu than it would be to travel to/back from Manila every month. So, I keep my VA doctors back in my Home State and I see them when I go back every year for the Holidays. I get my doctor in the US to give me a 6 month supply of my blood thinner medication and I bring it back to the Philippines with me. So, I'm only on the hook for the remaining 6 months when I get back.
But Steve, I'm 100% permanent & total, although I've never been there I know better than you! Just kidding! Thanks for keeping it clear for folks so they have the appropriate expectations when they arrive!
Lol, Thanks
Howdy Steve, spot on with the latest information as always.. stay the course with the video posting... Semper Fi.
Thanks, will do!
1000% Agree with you Steve. Let the naysayers go to the VA CLINIC and find out for themselves. LOL
Thanks Steve. It's nice to know what is available while I'm living in the Philippines. I'll planning to be there in March.
Good information. Thank you! We are looking for the VA clinic there in the Philippines.
The only reason the VA is in the Philippines is for the retired Filipino's who were recruited by the US Navy. The deal ended when the bases closed in 1992, so the VA could leave at any time. Is there a VA Clinic in Germany, or Japan, or Korea, NO. Reason, there was no Base Agreement recruiting local nationals. Be happy it is even there at all.
It started again
Veteran @100% considering moving to the PI thabk you for this information.
I e got a question about this. I am 100% P&T and live up in Vigan and one of my benefits is a free dental and eye exam each year and was wondering if they do that at the VA clinic in Manila and how do I get set up to get seen for my service connected issues at the clinic in Manila. Thanks in advance. Oh and I do have TRICARE as well
Thanks Steve for making a video to clear that up. A lot of veterans need to know exactly what to expect from the Manila VA Clinic. Maybe someone will also do a video about the VA Clinic in Guam. I've heard a lot of vets think they can go there also to get treated.
I served in the height push to end the Cold War in the 80's. We were breaking rules that never should have been broken. Our exposure limits had waivers issued, without officially telling us. Women were discharged if they wanted to get pregnant. All of this was done under classification. We are far more susceptible to cancer, heart failure, embolisms, kids with birth defects, etc.
What does our beloved VA say to me. "They wouldn't be allowed to do that to you. It would be illegal. Can you prove it?" So I have to pay for everything at full rate. My beloved VA.
Sounds like most of you should have stayed in the USA. From inflated sweet spot budgets, $50 thousand dollar emergency funds and 90% of you require some kind of medical care. I'm glad I'm in the 50+ category that's living like a king on $1,500 a month and healthy and happier than ever here in Davao.
You are the only person to clear this up for us
Steve, tell your subscribers get a copy of the foreign medical program with the VA and read it. It makes it abundantly clear what care you can get and what care you cannot get.
Excellent info that guys need to know!
To expand on that, you can't use Guam as a work around either. Hawaii VA controls that clinic and they told me that you have to have a Guam address to be seen there.
Great information as always, Steve. Thank you.
Thanks for watching!
You are very right.. I read somewhere that VA MNL will treat you for service connected and you can also use Foreign Medical Program which is a bit more time consuming, and that's it...
Great video. I was under the impression I'd get zero help at the clinic. I'll be too far away to make it viable but it is good to know that I might be able to at least talk to them. It's looking more and more like I'll probably maintain a US address. VA care here is just really great. Nowadays you really don't have to do much in person. I've been getting my meds for 3 years without ever going to physically see a doctor.
Good discussions possible scenarios
Understand that. I am non service connected veteran and wish they would at least be able to fill prescriptions. I got all my prescriptions in USA for $8 for each one. I think out of pocket cost me $56 per month. Since my private health insurance doesn't cover them here it is $200 per month out of pocket. Of course va in USA will not mail prescriptions to other countries. It is what it is and I had to accept it but wish I could at least get medicines. Surprised you are getting lot of guys questioning the policy in manilla va.
We always believe you Steve, you always try your best to make something right..
Like all the info on medical care or insurance. About 1 yr away from coming to the PI.
I just moved here last month and surely thought that the VA would give me a prescription for Vicatin for my service-connected back condition; they stopped doing that last October. (The story of my life)!
Thank you for this Video
My pleasure
Come to Punta Cana in Dominican Republic
I’ve been there
Thanks Buddy! I'm 100% TDIU but 90% Service Connected, so I will get coverage thru Pacific Cross or another Company when I get to Navak, Biliran on March 9th. I already have 90 day supply of my meds,
I can't speak for the VA in the PI but here is the USA I go to the VA (retired Navy) twice a year for blood work and BP Meds. There are three types of people in the clinic 1) Purple Heart Vets, 2) Vets in business attire for an appointment and back to work 3) the rest don't have a pot to piss in or a window to throw it out of and use the VA as their primary health care provider. The VA was never intended to be used in that fashion but due to the political climate they see everyone now regardless of if you are service connected or not. I know some people talk about op'ing out of Part B and using the VA instead, very stupid on their part. I'm not a fan of people who abuse the VA as if it owes them something for just being a Vet. Very abused system. Thank you, off my soap box, carry on.
For the most part they will be bare bases. With forward logistics setup. We had the same concept in Korea where we used active Korean military bases but would only rotate in troops/aircraft for Team Spirit / Ulchi-Freedom or whatever it is called now. My gripe is that Tricare is treated as the ugly step child in the Philippines, not covering things that should be covered under the plan. Tricare would not even cover a prescription from an in hospital pharmacies. Contact your Congress person before moving to the Philippines, if they get enough angry veterans complaining they may do something.
How about our GIC health and Medicare benefits? Is it worth it to maintain it so that we can use it if and when we return to the USA for a healthcare visit? Also, how do you deal with the not having healthcare fines at tax time in the USA? And is it possible to have our Silverscript drugs forwarded to the Philippines?
No healthcare fines if you reside outside the. Only you can really decide what’s best for your situation.
It can be confusing about who can qualify for medical care at the VA. I'm retired military and I didn't think I could use the VA but after meeting three other veterans who served less than a year and never leaving the USA were receiving medical care at the VA, I thought surely if they qualify I do. One guy I know doesn't pay his part A Medicare because he expects the VA to take care of him.
Federal Employee Retirees should keep in mind that Federal Blue Cross/Blue Shield will cover them overseas. However, it is by reimbursement after care. The retiree goes out of pocket in most cases. There are certain Hospital’s globally that will bill directly, but it is on a case-by-cases basis.
The only other Federal plan that covers medical is the American Foreign Service Medical Plan. This plan covers a bit more and is easier to use with no translation necessary for billing. The one caveat, is that the Federal employee must have the plan for one year during their career in order to select it in retirement. Just a heads up for Fed employees nearing retirement or already retired.
According to news in the States and Stars and Stripes the total is 9. The last 4 locations have not been released yet.
I will be moving there in March 2024. I have about 6 months worth of medications to bring with me. Will I be able to get all the meds that the VA in the US prescribes ? Also what happens if they they don’t have a medication that I am on at VA Manila, will they order it?
It’s only Service Connected and many meds are not available.
Are you a part of the foreign medical program? I am 100% Service connected and I am also permanently and totally. All I need is my annual physical. I am capable of providing my own medical care over there.
Hi. Thank you for the info. It was helpful: do you have
Any advice on how to transfer money once we are in the Philippines. Especially for VA who need their money transferred into a Philippines bank account. Citibank just closed their global transfer access and there are no other Philippine banks in Las Vegas
Western Union is great for transfers
Steve can you do a segment on tricare And the thing called the traveling overseas medical for vets.
It’s FMP
The only thing that I can get from the VA clinic in Manila is a physical exam and Blood tests every 6 months. My Doctor there apologizes that she can't do all the things I need. I also was able to get the Covid vaccines from them. Everything else, I have to go to the Tagaytay Medical Clinic at my expense. I don't think the influx of American troops will change a thing about our medical care.
Thank you Steve, I would love to meet you for coffee once I get settled. :)
Sounds good!
They SUCK 72 phone calls in 3 days. To get through to some one. A 10 month wait for a MRI or a CAT scan.
It’s a clinic not a hospital
Do you see any VA police officers there?
No, just guards
My dad was under the same assumptions too, even here in the US. Until the VA set him straight. Yes, they provided all his care, no problem. Not because he was service related. But because he was on SS, and had Medicare. They administer for Medicare.
Without the Medicare, they basically tell you to take a hike. People assume too much without looking up the info. Sad.
Very informative, although I'm not a veteran
Question I have been asking but no one answers???? how much does it cost for a funeral cost if I die there? I have creamation insurance but my girl friend is against it. so how much will it cost? why will no one do a vid. on this, It is Important.
Party food and all.
About $4-7K total
Some American vets give America a bad name. My wichita ks veteran hospital is awesome and I see vets going off in waiting area about small stuff. Their numbers are low but they can give all vets a bad name.
I agree
Navy will have NAVY Medical ships.
MSC USNS Mercy (T-AH 19)
How about using Tricare there? Is it readily accepted?
Yes
It seems more from USA go to PH and most from EU go to Thailand. I believe religion plays a big role in this. Also, it also seems military service is another. But, why go to the PH and not less expensive US towns? Is it reminiscing about the fun days of Subic and Angeles red zones? Those days are long over. Or, is it the delusion a young lady might actually love them more than their ATM card?
Just remember not all veterans doesn't have service connection.
Correct
Hi Steve. Us 100% ers are really SOL here in PH!!!!!!
Excellent video. What year did the va in Manila stop seeing people for not serVice connected issues? Has this always been the case? What year is the Clark hospital close?
It might have always been the case. It is only a clinic and not meant for full care.
It's the VA, there is always a hustle. They talk a good game but really could care less about us.
Are the doctors there Filipino ? American?
Filipino
@@MrSteven5975 Are they American trained or Filipino graduates from what you know??
Yet another good reason to have $3000 or more income per month if you plan to live there.
Is tricare excepted there?
Yes
Facts suck. Thank you.
Is this the VA Clinic at Clark?
Pasay
Clinic only? That's poor. Basically the VA there is no help really and to have to jump through hoops. I can use my company clinic at work or urgent care in my neighborhood covered by the VA.
Here's the deal, what is the purpose of this VA Clinic if they don't take care of Veterans. What's the point?
They take care of many Veterans just fine. But it’s for Service Connections
I just saw a comment about tri care is accepted there.. this is true?
Yes
Steve. How do I go about getting my wife an ID card. Is there a local DEERS office here....
I’m not sure about Tricare unfortunately
Probably the same people that go there with no emergency fund.
Oh Man!! I Had Planned On Getting "Plastic Surgery" Done At The
VA Manila While On Vacation In The Philippines!! Thanks For Nothing, Joe Biden!!! 🤔😭😭😭
You get your yearly, bloodwork and service related test done to keep your VA benefits n pension that’s about it