I'm glad you found your way to PC, Cactus.

Re. paying your own medical bills for combat related health situations ... Some of the current administration would just as soon all of the military carry their own personal health insurance as protection against enemy lead poisoning.

Maybe there's another VA hospital you can try for treatment ... or a visit to the patient relations team. There has to be some misunderstanding.

50% or more disability pretty much gets you full treatment. Purple Heart gets just about everything without any co-pays. (well, that's my limited knowledge).
As you always heard on active duty ... go see the IG.

Anyway, welcome to PC and Combat PTSD!

Troy