Let me say that if it were done properly I'd be first in line, but properly and the US Government is an oxymoron IMHO.

As some of you know in July of 2008 I thought I was a goner. But I have received great medical service from the VA.

However, the other side of the government showed up a couple of weeks ago. The short version is:

1. My initial coverage was free.
2. Last year I made just enough money to cross a threshold so I started having to make co-pays, and when the services started adding up they allowed me to go on the easy payment plan.
3. So far, so good.
4. Then a couple of weeks ago I received a letter saying that I had a past due amount of $67.
5. I called the 800 number provided and after an hour on hold the following discussion transpired.

VA - Let me look up your account. OK, I see that you are making payments.
ME - So why do I have a past due amount.
VA - You don't.
ME - Why the letter?
VA - We don't have a repay agreement on file.
ME - Is what I am sending every month the correct amount?
VA - Yes
ME - Send me an agreement stating that and I'll sign it and return it to you.
VA - We can't do that. We'll send you a form, you fill in the amount.
ME - Will you send me a response saying that is what we agreed to.
VA - No.
ME - So let me get this straight. You want me to send another form, that says what the last one says, and in point of fact I have been sending the agreed upon amount that you are not asking to change?
VA - That is correct.
ME - No
VA - If you don't we will turn you over to the treasury for collection.
ME - So you are going to turn me over to collections, not for not paying an amount we agreed upon, but for not filling out a form that you mis-placed?
VA - Yes
ME - Please do so.

I later spoke to a supervisor that sent me a letter stating what the agreed upon amount is, but I am contemplating letting them send me to collections and then finding me an ambulance chasing attorney and suing them for stupidity.

So, my government health care is great, except for the money people.