I've used the VA for too many years to count ... but took Medicare as soon as I was eligible.
Too many times, the VA doctors are less than effective in specialty treatment. I'd never let the VA choose a random doctor for surgery, for example. I want to choose a doctor that plans on cutting my body open. So there is that part, about choosing your doctors.
Sometimes, you get good care, sometimes indifferent care at VA ... so in the interest of health care, the more choices you have, the better your health care will be - especially if you participate in your care, and research the best available treatments ... then, you will get best of both worlds.
I personally find/choose (you can change PCM in VA if you don't get along well with your PCM) ... But, I find a good one, and stick with him/her ... THEN, once we see a problem, then I decide whether VA or a private physician is best, and go with my own choices instead of whatever random doctor VA has on staff. Works for me.
Plus, when we're traveling, we get Medicare everywhere, and with the VA, it's not always as easy to get "out of home area" treatment. You can get it, but it's a hassle. SO if you travel a lot, Medicare is everywhere, and no difficulty getting health care.
