BUCYRUS, OH (CRAWFORD COUNTY NOW)—In a recent podcast, Randy Bigley sat down with Mike Amsbaugh from Crawford County Veteran Services to discuss common questions about VA benefits and the services available to veterans in the area.
Amsbaugh highlighted that many veterans come to his office seeking information about their benefits, often after hearing about them for the first time. One frequent question involves adding conditions to an already submitted claim. Amsbaugh explained that while veterans cannot add to an existing claim, they can file a new claim for any additional conditions.
Another common query is about the VA’s method of calculating disability percentages. Amsbaugh clarified that the VA uses a combined rating system, which can be confusing. For example, a veteran with disabilities rated at 50%, 40%, and two at 10% would not simply add up to 110%. Instead, the VA combines these percentages in a specific order and rounds the final number.
Amsbaugh emphasized the importance of veterans utilizing their local veteran service offices, which exist in every county in Ohio. These offices provide assistance with VA benefits, state benefits, transportation, and emergency financial assistance. Ohio is unique in having such accessible services, unlike many other states where veterans may have to travel long distances for help.
For medical care, Amsbaugh noted that veterans in Crawford County are conveniently located between VA outpatient clinics in Mansfield and Marion. He also mentioned the VA’s community care program, which allows veterans to receive local specialty care if they cannot access it through VA facilities.
Veterans interested in enrolling in VA healthcare can do so through various methods, including visiting the Crawford County Veteran Services office located in the Bucyrus courthouse. The office is open Monday through Friday from 8 a.m. to 4 p.m., except on federal holidays. For more information, veterans can call 419-562-7761 or visit the office’s website and Facebook page.
Amsbaugh encouraged veterans to reach out with any questions, emphasizing that there are no bad questions when it comes to understanding and accessing benefits. “The bad question is the one that’s never asked,” he said.
For more information or to schedule an appointment, contact Crawford County Veteran Services at 419-562-7761.