Bad press about a few VA clinics does not mean that the entire system is garbage. In fact, as recently as last year, veterans rated their satisfaction with VA care higher than the general public rates private care[1]. Also according the the Inspector General, while no one denies that delays in care happen at the VA (it should be noted that delays happen in the private sector as well), that the deaths at those hospitals can not be directly linked to the delay in care[2].
Finally, my anecdotal evidence: I am highly satisfied with the care that I receive at the VA. I have 20% disability due to a significant loss of peripheral vision in my right eye. I am scheduled yearly for an annual physical including urine and blood work, a field scan with my eyes to test regressions, and two general appointments with an optometrist. I also have free access to nutritionists and weight support groups since weight management can be an issue for veterans. Is it perfect, no, but I have never felt that I didn't get the care that I needed in a reasonable amount of time.
Finally, my anecdotal evidence: I am highly satisfied with the care that I receive at the VA. I have 20% disability due to a significant loss of peripheral vision in my right eye. I am scheduled yearly for an annual physical including urine and blood work, a field scan with my eyes to test regressions, and two general appointments with an optometrist. I also have free access to nutritionists and weight support groups since weight management can be an issue for veterans. Is it perfect, no, but I have never felt that I didn't get the care that I needed in a reasonable amount of time.
[1] http://www.va.gov/opa/pressrel/pressrelease.cfm?id=2537
[2] http://online.wsj.com/articles/no-deaths-caused-by-delays-at...
edit: formatting