Nate1956's Status Updates

I'm sorry to hear you're struggling, have you stopped using the O2 completely? We have some great community members that I'm sure can chime in with their experience and advice but in the meantime, you might find some information here helpful: https://copd.net/living-with-copd. Wishing you an easy weekend. All the best, Sam S. (COPD.Net, Team Member).

Hi Sam, (hope you don't mind the shortcut) and thanks for your reply. Yes, I have stopped using the O2. I am on 3 inhalers which I can manage better. I will try and connect with others in the community.

That sounds like a good plan. Thanks for being here and wishing you a lovely evening 😀 - John M. (COPD.net Team)

Hi Nate, and thanks for your post. I see my colleagues, and , have already responded here to you. I do hope you had an opportunity to look over their comments.
I, too, have something to add.
Although I cannot speak with certainty about the VA Health Care System, I have seen portable oxygen cylinder supplies provided by the medical equipment companies as either an oxygen tank (the old fashioned heavy, steel type), and also the more modern (but not new!), lighter, aluminum cylinders.
It really shouldn't matter to the supplier as they are both readily available and pretty inexpensive.
Your prescribing physician (at the VA), should be more than willing to indicate (if necessary), the lighter cylinder since that is in the best interest of the patient (you!), and the cost is the same!
Sometimes, one has to act as their own best self advocate! I would think if you insist on this with your doctor, he/she will accommodate your request.
Do you think this would work in your situation?

Wishing you well,
Leon (site moderator COPD.net)

Hi Leon, Thanks for your reply. Unfortunately, VA does not work well for me. I haven't been comfortable with them for quite some time. I have asked my PCP for the lighter tank, which was also a discomfort. I wanted one that was light and easy to carry around, but was turned down due to the cost. So now I just deal with getting around without it.
Also to the team members that has responded to my posts, THANK YOU. It is good to know that you are there.

Hi Nate, and thanks for your reply here. I have several close friends who use the VA Health Care System. Some are very successful getting their health care needs there while still others, feel similar to the sentiments you've expressed.
I am sorry to hear you've had to struggle getting around without the portable oxygen system. I am sorry your request was turned down.
Is it feasible for the physician to make a request based on 'medical need'? Sometimes that can work - do you think it could work for you? I don't like to think of you having to struggle out there when there is so much that can make your ability to get around easier.
Perhaps another VA physician (possibly a specialist, like a pulmonologist), can be of more help.
If there is anything we can do to assist you, please let me or any other moderator / team member know.
Warm regards,
Leon (site moderator COPD.net)

Hi Leon, I went that route as well, with the same result. That is when I tried the O2. I was tripping over the tube or my dog was getting tangled in it. I asked for the backpack style and the small hip wearing style. There response,, TOO EXPENSIVE. I thought that I would enjoy retirement while fishing or walking the dog. Not happening. Now I've become a couch potato. Oh well. Again, thanks Leon for your input and concern.

Hi again, Nate - it's my pleasure!
I am still (stubborn, me!), having a difficult time accepting the VA physicians' response to you. This is the VA!! They have patients using oxygen all the time in the treatment of various conditions. Shame on them!!
Perhaps it's not your style, but sometimes one has to be their own best self advocate - not accepting of their poor excuses. A physician working with and on behalf of their patient can make a great deal of progress in assisting their patients to get what they need.
I am so sorry this is happening to you!
Warmly,
Leon (site moderator COPD.net)

Well Leon, Since I am on Medicare now, I am going to see what they can do for me. I don't accept their excuses I just know how they are. Been dealing with them for over 20 years.

I understand, Nate - glad to hear you plan on being persistent. Some of my buddies (I mentioned in an earlier reply), are also dealing with the VA since the Vietnam War. They know how to make themselves heard by making a bit of a scene (as a GI veteran), in the system. They tell me they usually get results.
I'm thinking the Medicare may be of help to you as well. Often times they are able to provide what is best for the patient - especially when the patient's doctor starts advocating too!
Be persistent and keep at it!!
Leon (site moderator COPD.net)