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RI Veterans: Did you know? 22.06.23 (C&Ps, Vets Home, outdoors, events, more…) – John A. Cianci
by John A. Cianci, contributing writer on veterans issues
Photo: RI Veterans Home Resident Home Council President Raymond Houle
Questions from one of our readers:
Q: I received a call from a company claiming to be contracted with the VA to do a medical exam for a claim I have, and prior to discussing information with me the company sought personal information; date of birth and full name. How do I know the company is legit and what should I do?
A: First, you should have filed a claim and have the claim pending. You should have filed online via VA website, https://www.va.gov/disability/file-disability-claim-form-21-526ez/introduction. Or, by mail, sending the Application for Disability Compensation Benefits ( VA Form 21-526EZ), to Department of Veterans Affairs, Claims Intake Center, PO Box 4444, Janesville, WI 53547-4444. Or, in person at Providence VA Medical, Chalkstone Ave, Providence RI.
VETTIP – Recommend you set up a folder for all ongoing correspondence with VA for the claim. Be sure to keep a copy and proof of mailing of the application.
As the National Veteran Service Officer for the Italian American War Veterans of US, I recommend you NEVER check off the block “fully develop claim” when completing the application. Simply put, by checking off fully developed you are waiving your rights under the law “duty to assist” – this means the VA is required to help you gather evidence to support your claim for VA benefits.
Example, “duty to assist law requires VA will make a reasonable effort to help you get these types of evidence: VA medical records, private medical records, etc.
After you file your disability benefits claim, the VA , more than likely, will ask you to have a exam (also known as a compensation and pension, or C&P, exam).
According to the VA website, private companies doing C & P exams are:
- VetFed Resources, Inc., Alexandria, Virginia;
- Logistics Health, Inc., La Crosse, Wisconsin;
- Medical Support Los Angeles, A Medical Corporation, Pasadena, CA;
- QTC Medical Services, Inc., Diamond Bar, California; and.
- Veterans Evaluation Services, Inc., Houston, Texas
If you do not receive written acknowledgement of the claim by the VA within 60 days, recommend you call the VA to check on the status.
What should you do when you get the claim exam letter or phone call?
You’ll need to confirm your appointment. Call the number on the exam letter to confirm the place and time. If you get a phone call, you can confirm the place and time on the call.
When you confirm your appointment, you can request help with transportation or other accommodations you need.
You can also request a male or female provider in these situations:
- If you’re having a reproductive health, breast, rectal, or mental health exam, or
- If your claim is related to a mental or physical health condition resulting from military sexual trauma (MST)
VETIP – Recommend before releasing personal information, you ask the caller for his or her name and a call back number you can call back. If he or she refuses, do not disclose personnel information and contact the VA immediately to confirm the name of the private company doing the C & P. Moreover, ask the VA to document that you received a call, however, could not authenticate whether the caller was legit.
Although you will be reimbursed for travel from your home of record to the location of the appointment, if the appointment is to far for you to travel, seek a closer location for the exam. If the provider does not have a closer location, contact the VA for a different provider.
VETTIP – Many of the C & P providers offer appointments on weekends and holidays. However, the veteran does not have to commit to an inconvenient appointment date.
What happens after my claim exam?
The provider will write up an exam report and send it to the VA.
They’ll review all the evidence in your file, including the exam report from the provider. Then they’ll make a decision on your claim and send you a decision letter.
The processing time for your claim depends on how complex your claim is and how many conditions you’ve claimed.
Sadly, according to the VA website, the average time to complete is estimated to be 103.5 days. However, per some information we learned, the VA Providence Regional Office average has been over 180 days.
How do I get a copy of the C & P exam?
You’ll need to request a copy of the final exam report. You can’t get the results at your exam or directly from the provider.
To request a copy of the exam report, you’ll need to fill out a Freedom of Information Act or Privacy Act Request (VA Form 20-10206).
Get VA Form 20-10206 to download
You can submit the form by mail or in person.
By mail
Mail the completed form to this address:
Department of Veterans Affairs
Evidence Intake Center
P.O. Box 4444
Janesville, WI 53547-4444
In person
Bring the completed form to your nearest VA regional office. Federal Building, VBA Regional Office, 380 Westminster Street , Providence.
Why should I get a copy of the C & P exam ?
The C & P exam, more than likely, will be a key piece of evidence the VA will use in making the decision on whether the illness or condition is service connected.
If you review before the decision and discover discrepancies, you can submit a statement to clarify the information BEFORE the decision is made. Otherwise, your claim could be denied, and you would have to appeal; an appeal could take 2-3 years.
Example: how the VA rates migraine headaches –
The veteran gets migraine headaches every day and has learned to live with them. However 2-3 times a month the headaches are so severe the veteran misses work.
The C & P examiner noted only veteran has 2-3 headaches a month, and does not mention the impact of the headaches on the final C & P.
More than likely, the VA rater would be awarded the 30% for $508.05. However, if veteran clarifies the frequency and impact on the veteran’s life by submitting a statement after the C & P, AND BEFORE the decision, the VA rater could rate the veteran at 50%, $1041.82.
VETTIP – Immediately after the C & P, the veteran should request the C & P from the VBA Regional Office, NOT VA providence, which will not have the C & P in the veteran’s medical file.
The VA rates migraine headaches under Diagnostic Code 8100, which allows for veterans to receive a percentage disability rating of 0, 10, 30, or 50 percent disabling.
Diagnostic Code 8100 Migraine Headaches
- 50 Percent Schedule Disability Rating. Monthly amount single veteran, $1041.82, with very frequent completely prostrating and prolonged attacks productive of severe economic inadaptability.
- 30 Percent Schedule Disability Rating , Monthly amount single veteran $508.05 , with characteristic prostrating attacks occurring on an average once a month over last several months
- 10 Percent Schedule Disability Rating $165.02, with characteristic prostrating attacks averaging one in 2 months over last several months
- 0 Percent Schedule Disability Rating , with less frequent attacks
Veterans must be proactive and understand the claim process.
Now you know the names of the companies calling the veterans to set up appointments, and understand how the VA will rate migraine headaches based on the C & P exam.
Louie Dolce, 99 years young, with ITAM member, Sal
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Providence VA Medical News
June 28, 2023, 10 am-1pm – Annual Caregiver & Family Resource Fair, VA Outdoor Pavilion, Chalkstone Ave, Providence. Join the Veterans Health Administration Caregiver Support Program for an opportunity to learn about the wealth of resources available to caregivers and families of Veterans. Contact the VA Providence CSP team to register (401) 273-7100 ext. 14308/13408.
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Update From Rhode Island Veterans Home
I3 Broadband tells RINEWSTODAY digital all is on schedule for FREE basic cable and internet access by July 1, 2023.
Recently elected Resident Council President of the Rhode Island Veterans Home is Raymond Houle.
Last week at Governor Dan Mckee’s press conference at the RI Veterans Home, Houle spoke on the importance of cable and internet to the residents at the veterans home.
“It’s the main source of our entertainment, it’s the main source of our enjoyment, it’s the main source of our information, and it’s the main source to our continuing education,” said Raymond Houle, President of Rhode Island Veterans Home Resident Council.
“We all have very limited access to the outside. TV and Internet mean more to us than you can imagine,“ he added.
RI Resident Home Council President Raymond Houle
President Houle was followed by Army Veteran Representative Marvin L. Abney (D). “Important to know, we are doing it for heroes,“ said Representative Marvin Abney, U.S Army veteran. Abney told resident veterans of the RIVH, “You served your country, and that’s why we are here.”
Abney serves on the House Committee on Veterans’ Affairs and Committee on Conduct and is a Democrat candidate for US. RI District 1-US Congress, left vacated by Congressman David Cicilline.
Representative Marvin L. Abney (D), U.S Army veteran
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Caregivers – important opportunity:
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Veterans Food Bank in need
Update: Operation Stand Down Rhode Island runs a Veterans Food Pantry at their Johnston location – provisions are running very low for this time of year. If you can help, here is what they need – note the drop off times – gift cards can be conveniently mailed.
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Travel/Entertainment for Veterans
Free Golf, Goddard Park Golf Course Fee Exemption for Totally Disabled Veterans: Rhode Island resident Veterans who have a 100% permanent and total, service-connected disability rating from the VA are exempt from paying any fees to play golf at the Goddard Park Golf Course. For more information call the Clubhouse at Goddard Memorial State Park from April 1st through the 3rd Saturday in November at 401-884-9834 or year-round at Division Headquarters at 401-667-6200.
Free Rhode Island Hunting and Fishing Licenses for 100% Disabled Veterans: A Veteran who has a 100% disability rating from the VA is eligible for free Rhode Island hunting and fishing licenses.
No cost licenses are available if you are:
· over 65 AND a Rhode Island resident
· a veteran with 100% disability status from the Department of Veterans Affairs
· a person with 100% total disability status from the Social Security Administration
To apply in person at DEM, please bring a photo ID and an ORIGINAL DOCUMENT OF THE FINAL DECISION(S). Office hours are 8:30 a.m. to 3:30 p.m. Monday through Friday. (directions)
To apply by mail, please complete an application and mail the application and a copy of your photo ID and the ORIGINAL DOCUMENT OF THE FINAL DECISION(S). Please allow two weeks for processing.
The address to obtain your license in person or by mail is:
DEM Licensing Office
235 Promenade Street, Room 360
Providence, RI 02908
(401) 222-3576
To purchase online, you will be required to certify that you have an ORIGINAL DOCUMENT OF THE FINAL DECISION(S). You will also be required to enter the date the decision expires. The Department will audit compliance with the certification and may, at any time, request a copy of the current DOCUMENT OF THE FINAL DECISION(S). Failure to submit the documentation by the date requested may result in the suspension of your fishing and hunting license. Also, Rhode Island General Law 11-18-1 prohibits giving false documents to an agent, employee, or public official. The penalty is a misdemeanor punishable by a fine of up to $1,000 or imprisonment up to one year.
Rhode Island Hunting and Fishing Benefits for Service Members and Veterans: Rhode Island offers several hunting and fishing benefits to Service members and Veterans. A short description of each is listed below. Applicants are required to show documentation proving eligibility when they apply:
· Active-Duty Service members – Military ID
· Veterans – DD214
· Disabled Veterans – VA Disability Certification Letter ( Contact VA office, ——————-
Applicants can apply online at Rhode Island Outdoors, in person at the Rhode Island Department of Environmental Management, Office of Boating Registration and Licenses in Providence (Monday through Friday 8:30 a.m. – 3:30 p.m.), at an Authorized In-Person Sales Agent, or they can mail applications to:
Rhode Island Department of Environmental Management
235 Promenade Street, Room 360
Providence, RI 02908
Phone: 401-222-3576
Free Rhode Island State Park Passes for 100% Disabled Veterans: Rhode Island offers the State Park Disability Pass for use at any state-owned recreational facility to disabled Veterans who have a 100% service-connected disability rating from the VA.
The State Park Disability Pass authorizes free admission and parking but does not exempt the following:
· Licensing fees
· Camping fees
· Picnic table fees
· Specialized facility use fees
· Use of equestrian areas
· Performing art centers
· Game fields fees
· Mule shed fees
If the disabled Veteran cannot drive, the vehicle transporting the Veteran will not be charged.
Veterans must apply in person at the Rhode Island State Parks and Recreation Headquarters and are required to show official documentation (dated within the past year) from the VA that states they have a 100% service-connected disability.
Rhode Island State Parks and Recreation Headquarters
1100 Tower Hill Road
North Kingstown, RI 02852
Phone: 401-667-6200
Email: [email protected]
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RINEWSTODAY salutes Phil’s Propane in Tiverton In Honor of The Brave program:
IN HONOR OF THE BRAVE!
A special offer to all military personnel and veterans. In appreciation for all you have done keeping us safe, Phil’s Propane wishes to offer you a discount on 20lb. gas grill refills for only $10 (military ID required). We thank you once again for your service! Special ends 7/3/23.
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Events
June 17, 2023, Saturday, Adopt a Veteran, 10:30 to 12:00 p.m. Friendly Home, Woonsocket RI and Italian American War Veterans of US (ITAM) and volunteers have partnered to host a monthly Veteran Coffee Hour for the veterans at the facility.
June 26, 2023, Monday 1600-2030, Team New England Trip Announcement, FREE FISHING FOR VETERANS, Who: 35 veterans/active/guard/reserve. Chartered Fishing Trip, Niantic, CT.
Team New England has been given the opportunity to get 35 members out fishing on the Black Hawk II- Party Boat Fishing at its Finest. Targeted species will be decided by the Capt. and may include bottom fish (porgies & black bass), stripers or blues… all depends on what the hot bite is. All bait and tackle will be provided by the boat, you can bring your own gear if you’d like. No fishing license required as you’ll be covered under the charter. Snacks and non-alcoholic beverages can be purchased on the boat. You can bring beer if you’d like; but no glass bottles are permitted onboard. Fish cleaning can be provided by the boat at the costs of $1 per fish. Tips for the crew are appreciated, but not mandatory.
July 3, 2023, Monday, Federal Hill Veteran Coffee House (always meet the FIRST Monday of the month), 9-11 am. Roma Ristorante, 310 Atwells Ave, Providence (free parking across the street). Veterans and their guests are invited. Refreshments are available, which include Italian toast, pastries, and calzones. Any questions call Italian American War Veterans of US, (401) 677-9838, email, [email protected]
July 18, 2023, Monday, FREE Luncheon 11:30-1:00 for Veterans and one guest at Perella’s Ristorante. 330 Metacom Ave Warren, RI. This month’s meal will be TBA. The event is a partnership of the Italian American War Veterans of US, inc. and the Building Bridges program. Last month over 60 veterans attended the luncheon.
The Building Bridges program provides a free breakfast or lunch at 13 sites that include Massachusetts, New Hampshire, Rhode Island and Vermont. These sites are run by community volunteers at community sites, including halls run by fraternal organizations, veterans’ organizations, and local restaurants. A team of veterans and volunteers do all the cooking and serving.
Do you know about a restaurant, post, lodge, hall, etc.. willing to host a luncheon on one of the Mondays in November, December, and January ITAM organization has RI Licensed Food Service Manager and full insurance. If you have a location one of the luncheons can be held at, contact ITAM program manager, John, (401) 677-9838.
Sept 8-10, 2023, Rocky Point State Park, Warwick American Veteran Traveling Tribute & Traveling Wall, remembering 209 Rhode Islanders who lost their lives in Vietnam War. Donations and sponsorship will support Operation Stand Down Rhode Island. Memorial opens 8am Friday – 5 pm Sunday. Saturday September 9 2:09-2:30 and Sunday 2:09-2:30 pm reading of 209 Rhode Island names, For more information visit OSDRI’s Event Page, www.OSDRI.org
September 14-15, Veteran Event, Johnston, 1010 Hartford Avenue, Johnston, RI. Operation Stand Down Rhode Island (OSDRI) is set to kick off its 32nd annual Veteran Assistance Event on September 14th at 8 a.m. This Veteran Assistance Event will be held at OSDRI’s Veteran Service Center located at 1010 Hartford Avenue in Johnston. Services will be available from 8:00 – 4:30 on Thursday 9/14, and 8:00 – 3:30 on Friday 9/15.
“Since its inception in 1993, the annual event has provided thousands of veterans with access to important services including health, dental, and substance abuse care, as well as employment, legal, and housing services. After holding a scaled back event during the pandemic in 2020, OSDRI expects a full roster of service providers this September.” said Erik Wallin, Esq. Executive Director of Operation Stand Down RI.
The event will be held at OSDRI’s Veteran Service Center, located at 1010 Hartford Avenue in Johnston. Veterans may access the location via RIPTA bus Route 28 which operates out of Kennedy Plaza and stops at the corner of Hartford and Bordon Avenue. Those arriving via their own vehicle must park and take a shuttle from behind the paved parking area ACROSS from Tri-County Community Action Agency: 1133 Hartford Avenue, Johnston, RI 02919
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RESOURCES & ongoing groups
Below are all the groups the Providence Vet Center is currently offering. As this list changes, I will provide updates. Please send me any questions that you may have, thank you for your time!
***All Vet Center Groups require that the Veteran be enrolled with the Vet Center prior to attending. To check eligibility or for questions, please contact the Vet Center at (401) 739-0167 or reach out to our Veteran Outreach Program Specialist (VOPS) via email at [email protected]***
Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder Group (PTSD) – 2nd and 4th Tuesday of the month from 2:00 – 3:30 p.m. (Group is only active September through May)
Global War on Terrorism (GWOT) and Vietnam Veterans PTSD Group – 2nd and 4th Wednesday of the month from 9:30 – 11:00 a.m.
Vietnam Veteran PTSD Group – 1st and 3rd Monday of the month from 10:30 – 12:00 p.m. and 5:30 p.m. – 7:00 p.m.
Art Expression Group – Every Thursday from 9:00 – 12:00 p.m.
Operation Enduring Freedom (OEF)/Operation Iraqi Freedom (OIF)/Operation New Dawn (OND) Group – Every Wednesday from 11:00 – 12:00 p.m.
Stress Management – Every Thursday from 9:00 – 10:00 a.m.
Low Impact Walking Group – Every Tuesday from 9:00 – 10:00 a.m.
Guitar 4 Veterans – Every Wednesday from 7:00-8:30 p.m.
Monday Mindfulness Group – Every Monday from 10:00 – 11:00 a.m.
Yoga Group – Every Friday from 12:00 – 1:00 p.m.
Moral Injury Group – Every Friday from 10:00 – 11:00 a.m.
Modern Warrior Support Group – 1st and 3rd Monday of the month from 2:30 – 4:00 pm.
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Discounts for Veterans
Services
No Problem Plumbing and Heating LLC: 15% military discount, ask for Ron Gaynor, (401) 568-6666. Veterans must provide proof of eligibility with a VA Card, VA ID Card, or RI State license with veteran identification.
Restaurants
Applebee’s – Military Discount. With more than 2,000 locations, Applebee’s is a family grill restaurant. Applebee’s gives 10% off for active duty and veteran. Last verified 07/31/2022.
Denny’s – Hartford Ave, Johnston offers 10% discount for veterans and active duty. Denny’s is a table service diner-style restaurant chain. Last verified 07/31/2022.
Outback Steakhouse – 10% Discount to active and veterans. Last verified 07/28/2021
99 Restaurant & Pub – The 99 Restaurant & Pub offers a 10% military discount to members of Veterans Advantage. Available at select locations only. Bring valid military ID
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Retailers
Advance Auto Parts – 10% for Active Duty, Veterans, and families. Last verified 07/28/2021
Bass Pro Shops – Offers a 5% discount to active-duty military, reservists, and National Guard. Sign up and verify your status online or bring your military ID when you shop at your nearest Bass Pro store (source).
BJs Wholesale – Reduced membership fee. BJ’s offers all military personnel over 25% off their Membership. Last verified 07/28/2021
Lowes – Enroll in the Lowe’s Military Discount Program to activate your 10% discount – “Our way of saying Thank You” to our active duty, retired and military veterans and their spouses with a 10% discount on eligible items. Verification of your military status is fast and easy through our partner, ID.me.
ID.me is our trusted technology partner in helping to keep your personal information safe.
GameStop – is offering a 10% in-store military discount on all pre-owned products, collectibles, and select new products. Available to current and former military members who bring any valid proof of service or when they verify through ID.me
Home Depot – Offers a 10% off military discount on regularly priced merchandise for in-store purchases for active duty, retired military, and reservists at participating locations. Customers are required to show a valid government-issued military ID card to redeem this offer.
Kohls – 15% discount offers for active military, veterans, retirees, and their immediate family members a 15% discount on purchases made on Mondays, in store only. In order to receive the military discount, eligible customers must present proper identification along with any tender type.
Jiffy Lube – HONORING VETERANS ALL DAY EVERY DAY! – We didn’t want to wait for Veteran’s Day to express our appreciation and gratitude for your service. That’s why every Team Car Care owned and operated Jiffy Lube® service center is offering our BEST discount of 10% OFF as a “Thank You” to the men and women of our Armed Forces for their service to our country. *Disclaimer*- I.D. required. No coupon is required. Excludes batteries and brakes, alignment, and diagnostic services. Available only at 3 select locations listed below:
Tioque Ave, Coventry RI – Bald Hill Road, Warwick RI – Park Ave, Cranston RI
Michaels – offers a 15% off military discount on the entire in-store purchase including sale items for active duty, retired military, guard, reservists, veterans, and family members. How to get –
1. Create an Account. Log in or create a Michaels Rewards account.
2. Get Verified. Provide your military information to get verified instantly.
3. Go Shopping! To use your discount online and in store, just sign into your account or provide your Michaels Rewards phone number at checkout.
O’Reilly Auto Parts – 10% discount on in store items for Active Duty, Veterans and families. Last verified 3/4/21.
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If you are a retailer and or a veteran aware of a business not listed above, please forward to:[email protected]: the business’s name, location, and military and veteran discount offered.
If you have an event, meeting, other pertinent veteran information, or email questions or help needed, contact the Italian American War Veteran Service Officer, John A Cianci, [email protected], ITAM Office 1-(401)677-9VET(9838)
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To read all columns in this series go to: https://rinewstoday.com/john-a-cianci/
John A. Cianci is a Veteran Service Officer. Retired, U.S. Army MSgt., Persian Gulf War and Iraq War combat theater.
Cianci, a combat disabled Veteran, served in Desert Shield/Storm and Operation Iraqi Freedom. His awards include Bronze Star, Combat Action Badge, Good Conduct, and others.
Cianci belongs to numerous veterans organizations – Italian American War Veterans, American Legion, Veterans of Foreign War, and many more organizations. He is an active volunteer assisting veterans to navigate federal and state benefits they have earned. He is Department of Rhode Island Department Commander Italian American War Veterans and Veteran Service Officer.
He is a graduate of Roger Williams University (BS Finance), UCONN business school* (Entrepreneur Bootcamp for Veterans), Solar Energy International Residential, Commercial and Battery Based Photovoltaic Systems certificate programs, numerous certificates from the Department of Defense renewable energy programs, including graduate of the Solar Ready Vets Program.