08-16-2020, 08:48 PM
Okay, rant time. I have used VA clinics on Kauai, Maui, and Hilo. While having an issue that required Maui to send me to Trippler, I mentioned I thought Maui took took a bit long to make the appointment. The nurse said "Whatever you do, don't move to Hilo!" She wasn't lying. I found care in Hilo terrible. When I fell off a ladder and injured my knee so badly I couldn't walk, I was told 2 months for an appointment. Then they said it must be arthritis, based on my age, a decision made without even imaging. No point going on, they're simply terrible. But the good news is that there is now a cure for Hilo VA, called Community Care. Once he is signed up for VA care, he can contact the Community Care office at Honolulu VA, tell them he does not live close to Hilo VA ( assuming he lives more than 30 minute drive) and wants a local primary care physician. He must find one that accepts VA insurance. I use East Hawaii Family clinic at HMC and am very pleased. After my first appointment there they scheduled a stress test, leading to 2 stents done at HMC. If he puts in a little effort, he can get adequate covered health care.