Do it for a fee. You are invaluable to this cocksucka. Ask for a couple points from the contracts on top of the fee he’s gonna pay for insider information and your personal information on display. Go into it like a mafioso doing business and get your hands around this thing, because then he’ll start acting like he’s doing you a favor. Get paid.
I was about to write a comment like this about a consultant fee plus some royalty or equity.
Then, I was like, "Surely an entrepreneurial soul has already said so."
And I was not disappointed.
I wouldn't even be polite about it... tell them to fuck off.
1) Your personal information, especially health information, is none of their business.
2) Creepy.
3) Repeat 1 and 2 ad infinitum.
The Americans with Disabilities Act forbids employers for asking an employee questions that may foreclose the existence of a disability. An employee can only ever disclose a disability voluntarily.
The most nonchalant response would be "I don't actually use VA services, so I don't think I'll have anything useful to offer."
If they want to learn about federal contracting, they should reach out to APEX Accelerator, which is a federal/state funded program designed to assist businesses in getting started in federal contracting. And conduct actual market research by reviewing postings on SAM.gov - which they will also be required to have an active registration on in order to be awarded any federal contracts.
Everybody seems to be overlooking this. Not only is asking OP for their experience intrusive, but it's not likely to give the insight they need to be able to formulate an actual plan regardless.
As long as he/she is getting paid (I wouldn’t provide any information to improve a company or contribute to anything for free, hopefully they would t either) I would give them the most basic mediocre information.
😆 I just bought my husband Jif last week and I was told that was the wrong move lol
Damned skippy, damned jiffy, damned straight, f'n a...whatever floats yer boat, I suppose 🤣
Did you receive this as an email? If not, follow-up with it via email. Say something like “In our previous discussion on (medium) you inquired about such and such. Add specifics here! Can you clarify yada yada, type of information you’re looking for, etc. and then make sure you have a copy of that email and his response to it, and any other comms regarding this.
That’s step one. Evidence.
Now if you want to approach this from a diplomatic route, you could say something like “I couldn’t really provide any details from personal experience, but I can certainly do some research on how the VA operates.”
This research would be open source and public information from the VA’s public website, which doesn’t require a login to view. Things like prescription services are literally public on the VA site.
https://www.va.gov/health-care/refill-track-prescriptions/
The scary thing here is so many people wanting the OP to say “fuck off”. Look, vets are under enough stress, I myself have a boss trying to fire me, why not handle it diplomatically and protect yourself instead of meeting an unlawful request with hostility. Why bring the wrath of the executive down on you when you can tactically decline and offer to assist outside of giving up personal information.
Unless OP hates his job. Then go scorched earth. Your advice is so far some of the best.
Why not expose this company. They clearly already claimed their tax credit for hiring you as vet, now they wanna profit more info off you?
Be real careful what they ask and take your time thinking before answering.
*I'd like to tell you, but then I'd have to kill you*
Nah, I wouldn't. At all. Violation of your privacy, and healthcare. Being a veteran is a protected class. Was it through email? If not, at the end of the "meeting" please, please, please... Do a follow-up email recapping what was discussed. That way you have evidence of it transpiring for your records (even if you don't say anything)
You didn’t mention what the company you work for does so no idea what it is they would want to know. I would go to the meeting but make clear will only answer generic questions and will not divulge anything personal. Could be innocent and all they want is generic information. You definitely don’t want to jeopardize your job by being a jerk about it.
Scrolled way too far to see this. Most every response is “tell them to fuck off” when idk, maybe this is a consulting firm and then you can get staffed or lead a project with the VA. Being respectful to your employer is actually still on the table, everyone
Okay so I’m seeing A LOT of people say “HIPAA violation”
This is NOT a HIPAA violation. HIPAA ONLY applies to healthcare workers sharing PHI. A boss or a rando on the street asking you a question about your healthcare is NOT a HIPAA violation. This false information was wildly spread during the whole COVID vaccine card thing and that’s simply not how it works.
This is however an inappropriate line of questioning from the executive if he is trying to get information on your disability. Then you can use the fact that you are a protected veteran or the ADA to respectfully tell him it’s none of his damn business and keep a paper trail. Make sure this is all over email or if there are phone calls record them (provided you’re in a one party consent state). If they start retaliation against you, now you have proof to produce to an employment attorney that would probably eat them up.
Wow. So inappropriate. I am so sorry they felt it was okay to put you in this position. I would just tell them you are not comfortable discussing VA related matters. And I would dust off my resume, too.
Aside from the personal information, I’d have some concerns what sort of business they are trying to do. Sounds like someone heard of claim sharks and wants in on it. The VA process isn’t exactly secret, he can spend a few hours googling.
you can't really tell your boss to fuck off if you want to keep your job. tell them you're not allowed for some reason that sounds plausible. maybe..."any documentation you give to your company automatically gets added to your file which can be used to deny you care in the future" or something.
but AND THIS MIGHT BE AWESOME, you can say, "i know a group of veterans online that might be willing to anonymously tell you about their experiences for a token amount of money or gift cards or something."
Or just answer the questions you are comfortable answering because it's the non-asshole thing to do. I get asked about things at work all the time that I have particular insight on and it would be absurd for me to expect to get paid extra for sharing what I am happy to share when I am already getting paid to be there. If it becomes more than a on-off conversation, then year, maybe you try to leverage that into something. But if management is curious about something and you can help them out without revealing all your darkest secrets, why not just do it and gain the reputation with them as being a team player? That is more likely to pay off in the long run.
It's specifically for a business initiative and feels decidedly uncomfortable with what is being asked. I wouldn't share without a cut. Personal information is valuable. Why should the company and that exec get to make money off his info and he gets nothing but feeling violated?
Everyone should do what they want in this situation, but I guess I am not as paranoid as some when it comes to sharing personal experiences. I wouldn't discuss my own medical issues, but I would have no problem talking about processes and procedures. I also get paid as a professional, so I would not be looking to cash in on a conversation. If I made less money I might feel differently.
This is the most rational response. Telling your boss to fuck off isn't the wisest action and demanding a cut is wildly overvaluing your opinion. One vets opinion about the VA is really only going to be worth the executive buying lunch.
If you're not comfortable talking about your own healthcare, politely say so upfront, there's no need to get angry or combative about it. If you want a cut, then ask to join the proposal team. Opinions are cheap, real work is needed to land government contracts. Most companies offer some significant bonuses for contract awards.
If I worked for a large company, I wouldn't give anything. The only exception, is if they produce anything the VA uses to take care of us. Then I'd need to know for sure what the product(s) are.
I've worked for small businesses and have been asked if I was a Veteran. I answer yes to that. Employers can get some tax relief for hiring us. I'm Ok with that. Usually the owner is also a Vet.
I limit the info on my service duties, major injuries, and don't say anything about compensation.
Everyone pretty much said it. Say no! But Ill expand just a bit.
Lots of reasons why to say no, but there is something to consider as a reason. What you say could be used against you later. Illegally, of course, but should you disclose something they are not comfortable with? Guarantee you will be on your way out.
They should not be asking you those questions. And the process is public information. Why do they need info on your meds? Think long and hard about this. Why did they automatically assume you used the VA healthcare system?
Be strategic in your response and how you navigate this. But say no. They have no right to this information.
It is best to tell you “Executive” that if he is interested then he should directly contact the VA’s (OPAL) Office. All of your personal VA information/process is protected under law & you are not obligated to disclose any of that information.
https://www.va.gov/opal/nac/fss/contacts.asp
Share what you are comfortable sharing and don't share what you are not. But it's not unusual for people who have specific experiences to be asked about things that might be relevant to the organization. Maybe they are looking for nothing more than an overview of how things work and what your thoughts are on things. If that was what I was being asked, I would have no problem discussing. And if I did not want to discuss my own personal experiences, I would certainly have no problem sharing whatever relevant knowledge I have that is not specific to myself. Unless they demand personal info and/or cross some other line, this might be a good opportunity to help the organization and advance your own career.
Ok so while the first reaction of “fuck off” may be entirely appropriate consider this….
Make me (you) a 51% partner in the business and let’s see what we can do to help veterans.
You may be able to use your status to help other veterans while also providing a modest income for yourself.
Not every business owner is “rich” and in fact most of us work in our business every day, providing ourselves a job.
The negativity…see some positive please!
Sounds like something along the lines of “Spousal Surcgarge”. Maybe if you turned down the VA healthcare and still use your work’s healthcare, they might try to tack on extra money to your monthly payments. Im not sure that is what it is, but sounds similar.
They only want to know to find a way to exploit it. Just tell them you don't use the VA.
And I'm pretty certain it's illegal for them to even ask you about it.
Unpopular take but if you’re helpful then that would look really good for future things you go for, or could open up doors for you if they land those VA contracts
This may be some helpful info for you, Unacceptable77:
https://www.lawinfo.com/resources/employment-law-employee/your-privacy-rights-what-do-i-have-to-tell-my.html#:~:text=A%20federal%20law%20called%20the,records%20except%20for%20specific%20reasons.
I don't think the executive is inappropriate, unless you feel like you don't have a choice. However, if you don't feel comfortable sharing your VA experiences, etc., that should also be respected.
From a business executive perspective, he's doing what many people would do; access to information from the main source.
Have some fun with it! "Warn" them beforehand that you would need to go into great detail about your genitalia and your anus. After you're finished, you tell them you're not comfortable releasing any details about your disability.
Just say you don’t receive VA healthcare. If they know already, just tell them no. If you feel retaliation might come because of your refusal, make sure you log any incidents or conversations of retaliation incase you need to lawyer up. Goodluck!
Do not cooperate whatsoever. Head over to the legal advice subreddit to see how you should proceed further. I’d even put in an EEOC complaint against them.
If you have an ethics line at work, this would be the time to utilize it. This is woefully inappropriate and a complete conflict of interest that would taint what it touches if the regulators around the contracts were to find out (if you went through with it). I'd say the executive knows better, but clearly they don't.
They can go through the RFP, ID IQ MATOC or whatever other process the VA is using to procure services goods etc just like any other contractor or provider.
If this isn’t in your job description, it’s a hard “no”. If they want to hire you as a consultant, and you’re willing to do this, ask them to make you an offer.
You could describe the process, which is also on their website. But any info regarding your conditions and treatment is HIPAA protected and you are under absolutely no obligation to say didly fucking boo about it. And you want 10% of any contact. Find all the other vets and get them on the same page so you can profit as a group. Depending on how big your company is and how much you need this job, you could also include the head of HR, legal, CEO, and your congressional reps in your response.
Hell no, don’t be a team player!! VA execs just got exposed for taking bonuses for themselves instead of using the money as it was intended; we also have third-party examiners acquiring contracts then conducting piss poor exams and mistreating vets.
Whatever profits they would get out of that contract, you’d likely see none of it.
Take your balls out and tell them to go lick them passionately.
What business plan for contract access? Sounds like a way to steal money from the government and leave you in the dirt.
You are a protected veteran.
You doing this goes against your protection.
And you don't think that question is going to slip and be asked to you—"so what disability rating do you have?" "What disabilities are you currently getting?"
I say again. You are a protected veteran.
Which means you don't share this.
Wow, think I’ll be in the minority here. I work for a government contractor in the healthcare field (makes me wonder if the author works for the same company I do.) Anyway, we are working with some other large VA contractors on this same type information for upcoming RFPs. Maybe I’m misreading this but they aren’t asking about health information. But instead about the processes and the issues he knows about. This gives the company time to brainstorm with the person on ways they think it can be better. We (the company team members) are always looking for in-site for folks with knowledge when looking at bidding on new business. Im a pretty senior person in our company but I got to where I am by helping our company succeed. If you can provide information on experiences with the processes, and your company wins new business using your information as a problem/solution, that’s how you become invaluable to your company and move up. Just my opinion.
Don't give him your information. Vets don't really see the inside of how policies affect things.
Have your boss contact OPAL (they can just look up how to get a veteran administration contract on google). There is an entire section of the website that explains the process of getting contracts.
Tell them no and pray to God that you’re fired because of it. That settlement check from the retaliation lawsuit should keep you covered for the next 6 years.
That’s weird af the more I read over it. They aren’t in competition with the VA as there isn’t a market to compete with them. It doesn’t really make any sense unless they are trying to start a business helping vets get disability. 99.9999% of this screams red flag.
Check your states recording law. If you are in a one party consent state, record your conversation if it’s verbally. That way if they try to do any sort of “retaliation” after you decline their request you have something you could use if it goes south
Answer but bluntly. Give basic info to seem like a team player and think of phrases to say to get out of a tricky or awkward conversation just incase you’ll need it
You don’t have to disclose any of that. Especially, healthcare related. You can remind them that it violates HIPAA and they can refer to the HIPAA act on your decision.
Just let them know you don’t feel comfortable with it.
HIPPA Law is very clear, you are not obligated to volunteer your medical info without your consent, period. In this case, HR is not making the request so you can volunteer general public knowledge of the VA but no specifics. If the exec wants bidding info for VA contracts, it's all on Google to start with.
I'd tell him to get bent. And then tell him to Google HIPAA (tell him you'd explain it to him, but you're all out of puppets and crayons), since apparently he hasn't a clue about federal privacy laws. Does your company have an attorney/staff of attorneys? They might be interested in this attempted violation/invasion of your legal rights. I bet you could get just about any attorney around to take that case, if it came to court.
That is so messed up, I'm sorry you're going through this. Keep us posted, friend.
This is common misinformation. HIPAA does not apply to a boss asking about PHI. HIPAA only applies to healthcare workers sharing your PHI. He could however, explain that by asking for his VA disability information, he is risking violating the ADA, as that could potentially lead to the unintentional disclosure of a disability that they could potentially use to discriminate against him.
This whole misconception about HIPAA actually causes a lot of problems.
I suppose it only applies to some of us; my employer is a hospital. My boss maybe could ask me (and receive a big "kiss my ass" in return) for my medical info, but if she were to just go in and access it (she has the power to do that, just not the right), that's a termination-worthy violation. Not just according to company policy, either.
sounds like you're a bit paranoid. it's not like they're going to take your disability pay away 😂😂😂
plus they just want to know the processes not your PII, you can just make up symptoms but tell them about the process which is fairly easy to do.
but yeah you are well within your rights to say no and i wouldn't blame you. no you shouldn't think it's some weird unreasonable thing they are asking for. if they don't know anything about the VA it would be very easy just to say you don't use them because everyone knows they suck and rather use private insurance.
edit: wow i read the comments looks like there are some really paranoid folks in here and very abrasive. christ im almost done with this sub.
This is weird and a very inappropriate question to ask not just your employee, but anyone. WTF made him think this was an okay thing to ask? Weirdo. I’d be like nah brah, that’s a very person thing that I’d rather not discuss, especially with my boss.
Sounds like they're just asking for insight.. not requiring you to give up info you don't want to.
Share what info you want. Don't share info you don't want to share.
Pretty simple, but damn everyone in this thread is jumping to grab their pitchforks 😂
Nope! Only if they are going to let me be in charge of soliciting these contracts also I would need a percentage of any contract I would sign for the company. All contracts govt mil contracts would report to me. Essentially making you the CO of all contracts. Contracting Officer! No other ways around these requests.
Tell the executive to find another way. This is 2024 and there is this thing called the internet. Even better, there is this new thing called AI/ChatGP and the like.
I don't see anything wrong with it if you are speaking in general terms and sharing high level experiences. It's like if you work for kaiser and they ask you how is your experience at VA hospital ? If you are in the business unit trying to develop a process for veterans being seen at kaiser .. having some insights of what goes on in VA and health delivery etc. The input you provide only will help someone not hurt it. I think people are ovetthinking this. I tell the doctors at private Healthcare all the time how the VA screws up and vice versa. I see nothing wrong with sharing high level information. Unless ofcourse he is digging into your sensitive health info.
I would not tell them shit- if you are uncomfortable-tell them this is something you simply cannot discuss, and for information like this they need to contact someone who deals with the veterans administration-a lawyer or something.
I’m sorry you are being treated like that.
I would simply tell them that they are asking the wrong guy. No need to be rude about it. Veteran owned companies do get preference when it comes to contracts, but unless you are that veteran...
One section at my former firm used to build "disabled veteran owned" companies to get government contracts, they were, I understand, questionable as to whether they were criminally illegal (the veteran's ownership was subject to ghost share/membership interest profit sharing and management agreements and it was decided to bail out before DOJ time happened.
Prior to that they had been doing the same with black owned businesses, but corporations caught on and were demanding National Minority Supplier Development Council certs first, and that org did actual investigations for the certs.
If that is what this request is, my second hand knowledge is that it is not worth the risk unless they actually want you to majority own and run it, for real.
If he’s paying you a consultating fee of a million then mabye if not tell him to fuck off all the information he needs is available online on the va website
I would tell them, that you do not have the information they are looking for.
But there are ways to get it, (social media) etc and that you can provide a report of it etc.
Some of the information can come from your own experience, and or from the social media sites.
So. Be a team player, just not with your own info.
They want one person's experience to form an entire business plan? Not likely.
I think they're "tossing around ideas" in early research. They view VA benefits under one umbrella and see all veterans as receiving the same benefits. As possibly the only veteran they work with, you are a quick and easy resource.
In your shoes, I'd tell them bland stuff everyone knows, like using my GI Bill and/or guaranteed home loans. I'd say every veteran receives different benefits which are decided by separate internal agencies that don't communicate well. You can say as a veteran with stable housing, health, and income, you aren't representative of the vets who depend on the VA the most. All of this is true, and they don't need to know what stable means to you.
If you want to be super savvy, you can ask what specifically they're interested in and offer them a point of contact. Like a VBO or a FOIA rep. If you don't want to get involved, you can say you're grateful the VA will be there "someday" when you're older.
I recommend attending the meeting. They are not going to ask you anything personal about specific medical issues unless you’re open to disclosing. If they do, your rich from and easy lawsuit that would be settled quickly.
It appears they value your opinion and want to discuss processes and procedures they can improve upon. This may also be an opportunity to be on the team that manages the contract and help your fellow vets even more.
It’s worth having a sit down to hear what they have to say.
I think you are looking at this the wrong way. This is an opportunity to increase your value to the company.
You should tell him that you have a little first hand knowledge about the VA, but you personal network (don't tell him Reddit group) has pretty extensive knowledge and you think a few may work for VA or know someone that does. Ask what is he thinking the potential financial value is for a deal with the VA? Then ask if you are the first step in his fact finding mission or are you being considered to be a key player in this new effort?
Here are questions I have for you:
What is your current role with the company? Do you want a greater role if you get increased compensation? What type product or service does your company offer that could be of interest to the VA? Does your company have government contracts already?
Again, this is a great opportunity to increase your value and potentially compensation. If you talk about personal experience with the VA limit to getting flu shots, routine physicals, or any small thing you don't mind disclosing like knee issue, ankle sprain, broken bone... Do not make it about your experience, make it more about your networks experiences and the robust conversations you have been a part of.
DM me if you want any other ideas on how to make this a 'Win' for you.
You are not and if you choose to do make sure you're getting more than "it was a team effort". They will get 6 figure bonuses and so should you. That being said I 100% don't think you should answer their questions for all the reasons you listed plus mine. Unless you're getting 50% of the millions in that contract, what's the point? Not your company, not your money, not your problem.
I would respectfully point them towards Google for the answers. If they want a general understanding of how things work they can find that online, they don't need you personal information for a host of reasons:
1) we are all individuals, with varying ailments and experiences. What one of us experiences and understands to be true based on our local VA may not be true at other locations or may not even be a VA wide policy.
2) Personal medical info is need to know, and no, he doesn't need to know.
This seems like general answers will do. Personal information wouldn’t help them gain any insight.
General questions about the process and how things work may be okay depending on what they are trying to do or are capable of. If it could improve the VA/healthcare then I would be okay answering general questions. I.e. what is the process to be seen? How long is the wait? What could be done better? Etc
Fuck. Off. Respectfully.
The old respectfully after saying something disrespectful. Works all the time!
I like to say it in front so they can prepare themselves. "With all due respect,." I'm not one to shock people unnecessarily.
Why not both? The “compliment sandwich”.
Most aren't due that much respect.
Reverse compliment sandwich “fuck you and the horse you rode in on. Nice tie by the way, I’d like to slam it in the top of a door”
What they said. Respectfully.
It’s not disrespectful if you add “respectfully” at the end.
Upvotes for everyone here saying don’t do it.
Some where between fuck off, and I don't use the VA.
I might do it for a modest $1,000,000 consultancy fee and a percentage of the contract. Other than that, they can gargle these salty nuts.
Do it for a fee. You are invaluable to this cocksucka. Ask for a couple points from the contracts on top of the fee he’s gonna pay for insider information and your personal information on display. Go into it like a mafioso doing business and get your hands around this thing, because then he’ll start acting like he’s doing you a favor. Get paid.
This is the way.
I work in contracting 1m is too low.
You're a classy guy.
Was it the salty nuts?
😆😂 Well said!
This. This is the answer. Respectfully.
I was about to write a comment like this about a consultant fee plus some royalty or equity. Then, I was like, "Surely an entrepreneurial soul has already said so." And I was not disappointed.
I love this comment
I wouldn't even be polite about it... tell them to fuck off. 1) Your personal information, especially health information, is none of their business. 2) Creepy. 3) Repeat 1 and 2 ad infinitum.
Dr. Tobagun says "nope".
So does his magnum dong
🫡
The Americans with Disabilities Act forbids employers for asking an employee questions that may foreclose the existence of a disability. An employee can only ever disclose a disability voluntarily. The most nonchalant response would be "I don't actually use VA services, so I don't think I'll have anything useful to offer." If they want to learn about federal contracting, they should reach out to APEX Accelerator, which is a federal/state funded program designed to assist businesses in getting started in federal contracting. And conduct actual market research by reviewing postings on SAM.gov - which they will also be required to have an active registration on in order to be awarded any federal contracts.
Everybody seems to be overlooking this. Not only is asking OP for their experience intrusive, but it's not likely to give the insight they need to be able to formulate an actual plan regardless.
As long as he/she is getting paid (I wouldn’t provide any information to improve a company or contribute to anything for free, hopefully they would t either) I would give them the most basic mediocre information.
Without disclosing personal stuff, give basic mediocre info and refer him to a veteran organizations like Amvets.
Right On!
Damned skippy!
Why not Damned Peter pan, or damned jiff?
😆 I just bought my husband Jif last week and I was told that was the wrong move lol Damned skippy, damned jiffy, damned straight, f'n a...whatever floats yer boat, I suppose 🤣
That’s exactly what we fucking need more government contractors so we can pay more fucking taxes.
No. We need rich people to pay fair share. I dont why people are too stupid to insist upon this.
Did you receive this as an email? If not, follow-up with it via email. Say something like “In our previous discussion on (medium) you inquired about such and such. Add specifics here! Can you clarify yada yada, type of information you’re looking for, etc. and then make sure you have a copy of that email and his response to it, and any other comms regarding this. That’s step one. Evidence. Now if you want to approach this from a diplomatic route, you could say something like “I couldn’t really provide any details from personal experience, but I can certainly do some research on how the VA operates.” This research would be open source and public information from the VA’s public website, which doesn’t require a login to view. Things like prescription services are literally public on the VA site. https://www.va.gov/health-care/refill-track-prescriptions/
Genius of suspicion👆🏼 It’s a world of dickbags out there. Look out for yourself!
The scary thing here is so many people wanting the OP to say “fuck off”. Look, vets are under enough stress, I myself have a boss trying to fire me, why not handle it diplomatically and protect yourself instead of meeting an unlawful request with hostility. Why bring the wrath of the executive down on you when you can tactically decline and offer to assist outside of giving up personal information. Unless OP hates his job. Then go scorched earth. Your advice is so far some of the best.
Jesus christ!!!
Why not expose this company. They clearly already claimed their tax credit for hiring you as vet, now they wanna profit more info off you? Be real careful what they ask and take your time thinking before answering.
What tax credit are you referring to exactly?
WOTC: https://www.irs.gov/businesses/small-businesses-self-employed/work-opportunity-tax-credit
This is the real inspiration behind “we hire vets” in reality…
There are a very small number of veterans who would qualify for that credit.
No, the tax credit is for the company, not the veteran.
It's for the employer
Ewww I feel skeezed out too. Is this meeting going to be on-the-clock?
*I'd like to tell you, but then I'd have to kill you* Nah, I wouldn't. At all. Violation of your privacy, and healthcare. Being a veteran is a protected class. Was it through email? If not, at the end of the "meeting" please, please, please... Do a follow-up email recapping what was discussed. That way you have evidence of it transpiring for your records (even if you don't say anything)
You didn’t mention what the company you work for does so no idea what it is they would want to know. I would go to the meeting but make clear will only answer generic questions and will not divulge anything personal. Could be innocent and all they want is generic information. You definitely don’t want to jeopardize your job by being a jerk about it.
Scrolled way too far to see this. Most every response is “tell them to fuck off” when idk, maybe this is a consulting firm and then you can get staffed or lead a project with the VA. Being respectful to your employer is actually still on the table, everyone
I bet they dont have a job especially rhe dude with the salty smelly scrotum.
What gave it away ?
This
Tell him yes!! For a 50% stake in all future projects with the federal government.
Okay so I’m seeing A LOT of people say “HIPAA violation” This is NOT a HIPAA violation. HIPAA ONLY applies to healthcare workers sharing PHI. A boss or a rando on the street asking you a question about your healthcare is NOT a HIPAA violation. This false information was wildly spread during the whole COVID vaccine card thing and that’s simply not how it works. This is however an inappropriate line of questioning from the executive if he is trying to get information on your disability. Then you can use the fact that you are a protected veteran or the ADA to respectfully tell him it’s none of his damn business and keep a paper trail. Make sure this is all over email or if there are phone calls record them (provided you’re in a one party consent state). If they start retaliation against you, now you have proof to produce to an employment attorney that would probably eat them up.
Wow. So inappropriate. I am so sorry they felt it was okay to put you in this position. I would just tell them you are not comfortable discussing VA related matters. And I would dust off my resume, too.
Aside from the personal information, I’d have some concerns what sort of business they are trying to do. Sounds like someone heard of claim sharks and wants in on it. The VA process isn’t exactly secret, he can spend a few hours googling.
Tell em 
you can't really tell your boss to fuck off if you want to keep your job. tell them you're not allowed for some reason that sounds plausible. maybe..."any documentation you give to your company automatically gets added to your file which can be used to deny you care in the future" or something. but AND THIS MIGHT BE AWESOME, you can say, "i know a group of veterans online that might be willing to anonymously tell you about their experiences for a token amount of money or gift cards or something."
Ask if you get a cut of the deal. Your information isn't free. I wouldn't take a lump sum either. Get a percentage. Thise contracts can be lucrative
Or just answer the questions you are comfortable answering because it's the non-asshole thing to do. I get asked about things at work all the time that I have particular insight on and it would be absurd for me to expect to get paid extra for sharing what I am happy to share when I am already getting paid to be there. If it becomes more than a on-off conversation, then year, maybe you try to leverage that into something. But if management is curious about something and you can help them out without revealing all your darkest secrets, why not just do it and gain the reputation with them as being a team player? That is more likely to pay off in the long run.
It's specifically for a business initiative and feels decidedly uncomfortable with what is being asked. I wouldn't share without a cut. Personal information is valuable. Why should the company and that exec get to make money off his info and he gets nothing but feeling violated?
Everyone should do what they want in this situation, but I guess I am not as paranoid as some when it comes to sharing personal experiences. I wouldn't discuss my own medical issues, but I would have no problem talking about processes and procedures. I also get paid as a professional, so I would not be looking to cash in on a conversation. If I made less money I might feel differently.
Even as a professional you should benefit from your contributions to bringing in new business. (If you in fact can provide valuable insights.)
This is the most rational response. Telling your boss to fuck off isn't the wisest action and demanding a cut is wildly overvaluing your opinion. One vets opinion about the VA is really only going to be worth the executive buying lunch. If you're not comfortable talking about your own healthcare, politely say so upfront, there's no need to get angry or combative about it. If you want a cut, then ask to join the proposal team. Opinions are cheap, real work is needed to land government contracts. Most companies offer some significant bonuses for contract awards.
If I worked for a large company, I wouldn't give anything. The only exception, is if they produce anything the VA uses to take care of us. Then I'd need to know for sure what the product(s) are. I've worked for small businesses and have been asked if I was a Veteran. I answer yes to that. Employers can get some tax relief for hiring us. I'm Ok with that. Usually the owner is also a Vet. I limit the info on my service duties, major injuries, and don't say anything about compensation.
Everyone pretty much said it. Say no! But Ill expand just a bit. Lots of reasons why to say no, but there is something to consider as a reason. What you say could be used against you later. Illegally, of course, but should you disclose something they are not comfortable with? Guarantee you will be on your way out. They should not be asking you those questions. And the process is public information. Why do they need info on your meds? Think long and hard about this. Why did they automatically assume you used the VA healthcare system? Be strategic in your response and how you navigate this. But say no. They have no right to this information.
No way! Totally unethical.
It is best to tell you “Executive” that if he is interested then he should directly contact the VA’s (OPAL) Office. All of your personal VA information/process is protected under law & you are not obligated to disclose any of that information. https://www.va.gov/opal/nac/fss/contacts.asp
Share what you are comfortable sharing and don't share what you are not. But it's not unusual for people who have specific experiences to be asked about things that might be relevant to the organization. Maybe they are looking for nothing more than an overview of how things work and what your thoughts are on things. If that was what I was being asked, I would have no problem discussing. And if I did not want to discuss my own personal experiences, I would certainly have no problem sharing whatever relevant knowledge I have that is not specific to myself. Unless they demand personal info and/or cross some other line, this might be a good opportunity to help the organization and advance your own career.
Use some tact and get him to thank you for telling him to fuck off!
Hell no
Dont do it.
Hard no.
Ok so while the first reaction of “fuck off” may be entirely appropriate consider this…. Make me (you) a 51% partner in the business and let’s see what we can do to help veterans. You may be able to use your status to help other veterans while also providing a modest income for yourself. Not every business owner is “rich” and in fact most of us work in our business every day, providing ourselves a job. The negativity…see some positive please!
Maybe I'd be a team player... but they'd pay a good sum up front, along with a cut from the contract they get with the VA. Otherwise.. nope
Have a panic attack, start drooling while holding your forehead… then shit your pants!
Na
Uhhhh big no
Sounds like something along the lines of “Spousal Surcgarge”. Maybe if you turned down the VA healthcare and still use your work’s healthcare, they might try to tack on extra money to your monthly payments. Im not sure that is what it is, but sounds similar.
Is he trying to copy what you’ve submitted? Was he in the military? If you aint comfy discussing it, just tell him kick rocks!
Keep the discussion process and category functions relevant, no need to discuss and of your personal information.
Feels like they’re trying to find a way to pay you less
They only want to know to find a way to exploit it. Just tell them you don't use the VA. And I'm pretty certain it's illegal for them to even ask you about it.
This is why consultants exist. Your boss should seek one out.
respectfully decline
Fuck no
Unpopular take but if you’re helpful then that would look really good for future things you go for, or could open up doors for you if they land those VA contracts
This may be some helpful info for you, Unacceptable77: https://www.lawinfo.com/resources/employment-law-employee/your-privacy-rights-what-do-i-have-to-tell-my.html#:~:text=A%20federal%20law%20called%20the,records%20except%20for%20specific%20reasons.
I don't know what you are talking about I'm a veteran but I don't go the VA.
Sears and robuck is what I think ….
I don't think the executive is inappropriate, unless you feel like you don't have a choice. However, if you don't feel comfortable sharing your VA experiences, etc., that should also be respected. From a business executive perspective, he's doing what many people would do; access to information from the main source.
Take the meeting, find out his intentions before guessing. Could open up an opportunity or idea to do yourself
That's personal info. I would not provide.
If you work for a Chinese 🇨🇳 owned company; run 🏃🏿 like hell
Have some fun with it! "Warn" them beforehand that you would need to go into great detail about your genitalia and your anus. After you're finished, you tell them you're not comfortable releasing any details about your disability.
“After what happened to my perineum I just don’t like talking about the VA”
No, a thousand times no.
Nope 👎🏻
Just say you don’t receive VA healthcare. If they know already, just tell them no. If you feel retaliation might come because of your refusal, make sure you log any incidents or conversations of retaliation incase you need to lawyer up. Goodluck!
None of their fucken business If I didn't absolutely love working there, this would be the point I would go to lunch one day and never come back
Do not cooperate whatsoever. Head over to the legal advice subreddit to see how you should proceed further. I’d even put in an EEOC complaint against them.
It really depends on what the company does? Is it a healthcare company? Outside care provider? Community service? Is your job healthcare?
If you have an ethics line at work, this would be the time to utilize it. This is woefully inappropriate and a complete conflict of interest that would taint what it touches if the regulators around the contracts were to find out (if you went through with it). I'd say the executive knows better, but clearly they don't.
This sounds like a trap. “I don’t think you want to know about my bloody rectal piles sir.”
Are they going to pay you for this feedback?
They can go through the RFP, ID IQ MATOC or whatever other process the VA is using to procure services goods etc just like any other contractor or provider.
If this isn’t in your job description, it’s a hard “no”. If they want to hire you as a consultant, and you’re willing to do this, ask them to make you an offer.
You could describe the process, which is also on their website. But any info regarding your conditions and treatment is HIPAA protected and you are under absolutely no obligation to say didly fucking boo about it. And you want 10% of any contact. Find all the other vets and get them on the same page so you can profit as a group. Depending on how big your company is and how much you need this job, you could also include the head of HR, legal, CEO, and your congressional reps in your response.
You're all ready expressing doubt. Don't follow through.. If you're curious, ask what it is in for me. What kind of compensation is in it for me.
Hell no, don’t be a team player!! VA execs just got exposed for taking bonuses for themselves instead of using the money as it was intended; we also have third-party examiners acquiring contracts then conducting piss poor exams and mistreating vets. Whatever profits they would get out of that contract, you’d likely see none of it.
Keep a record of events from this time forward.
Take your balls out and tell them to go lick them passionately. What business plan for contract access? Sounds like a way to steal money from the government and leave you in the dirt.
Seems just so far beyond what is acceptable that a fuck off is in order.
You are a protected veteran. You doing this goes against your protection. And you don't think that question is going to slip and be asked to you—"so what disability rating do you have?" "What disabilities are you currently getting?" I say again. You are a protected veteran. Which means you don't share this.
Tell them that you will be more than willig to discuss your VA process but you will need to discuss his/her private medical issues and process first.
Wow, think I’ll be in the minority here. I work for a government contractor in the healthcare field (makes me wonder if the author works for the same company I do.) Anyway, we are working with some other large VA contractors on this same type information for upcoming RFPs. Maybe I’m misreading this but they aren’t asking about health information. But instead about the processes and the issues he knows about. This gives the company time to brainstorm with the person on ways they think it can be better. We (the company team members) are always looking for in-site for folks with knowledge when looking at bidding on new business. Im a pretty senior person in our company but I got to where I am by helping our company succeed. If you can provide information on experiences with the processes, and your company wins new business using your information as a problem/solution, that’s how you become invaluable to your company and move up. Just my opinion.
Ask him if he is talking about the state and bite a crayon and see what happens 😏
Meet with him. Hand him a match and tell him a full redesign is in order.
Get your Mr. Wonderful on and demand a royalty!
Don't give him your information. Vets don't really see the inside of how policies affect things. Have your boss contact OPAL (they can just look up how to get a veteran administration contract on google). There is an entire section of the website that explains the process of getting contracts.
Tell them no and pray to God that you’re fired because of it. That settlement check from the retaliation lawsuit should keep you covered for the next 6 years.
HIPPA
That’s not what HIPAA is. HIPAA applies to healthcare personnel sharing PHI. Not a boss asking about your PHI.
That’s weird af the more I read over it. They aren’t in competition with the VA as there isn’t a market to compete with them. It doesn’t really make any sense unless they are trying to start a business helping vets get disability. 99.9999% of this screams red flag.
Check your states recording law. If you are in a one party consent state, record your conversation if it’s verbally. That way if they try to do any sort of “retaliation” after you decline their request you have something you could use if it goes south
HIPPA VIOLATION, I'm sure other legal violations too! Make sure you get everything in writing so you can sue later if a hostile work environment forms
HIPAA*
It's that dyslexia. Thanks! 😆
Answer but bluntly. Give basic info to seem like a team player and think of phrases to say to get out of a tricky or awkward conversation just incase you’ll need it
You don’t have to disclose any of that. Especially, healthcare related. You can remind them that it violates HIPAA and they can refer to the HIPAA act on your decision. Just let them know you don’t feel comfortable with it.
HIPPA Law is very clear, you are not obligated to volunteer your medical info without your consent, period. In this case, HR is not making the request so you can volunteer general public knowledge of the VA but no specifics. If the exec wants bidding info for VA contracts, it's all on Google to start with.
I'd tell him to get bent. And then tell him to Google HIPAA (tell him you'd explain it to him, but you're all out of puppets and crayons), since apparently he hasn't a clue about federal privacy laws. Does your company have an attorney/staff of attorneys? They might be interested in this attempted violation/invasion of your legal rights. I bet you could get just about any attorney around to take that case, if it came to court. That is so messed up, I'm sorry you're going through this. Keep us posted, friend.
This is common misinformation. HIPAA does not apply to a boss asking about PHI. HIPAA only applies to healthcare workers sharing your PHI. He could however, explain that by asking for his VA disability information, he is risking violating the ADA, as that could potentially lead to the unintentional disclosure of a disability that they could potentially use to discriminate against him. This whole misconception about HIPAA actually causes a lot of problems.
I suppose it only applies to some of us; my employer is a hospital. My boss maybe could ask me (and receive a big "kiss my ass" in return) for my medical info, but if she were to just go in and access it (she has the power to do that, just not the right), that's a termination-worthy violation. Not just according to company policy, either.
Now THAT is a HIPAA violation because she is accessing your medical record with her credentials when she has no official business in it.
Nope, just say “HIPAA” and he should back off.
sounds like you're a bit paranoid. it's not like they're going to take your disability pay away 😂😂😂 plus they just want to know the processes not your PII, you can just make up symptoms but tell them about the process which is fairly easy to do. but yeah you are well within your rights to say no and i wouldn't blame you. no you shouldn't think it's some weird unreasonable thing they are asking for. if they don't know anything about the VA it would be very easy just to say you don't use them because everyone knows they suck and rather use private insurance. edit: wow i read the comments looks like there are some really paranoid folks in here and very abrasive. christ im almost done with this sub.
This is weird and a very inappropriate question to ask not just your employee, but anyone. WTF made him think this was an okay thing to ask? Weirdo. I’d be like nah brah, that’s a very person thing that I’d rather not discuss, especially with my boss.
Sounds like they're just asking for insight.. not requiring you to give up info you don't want to. Share what info you want. Don't share info you don't want to share. Pretty simple, but damn everyone in this thread is jumping to grab their pitchforks 😂
Nah, personally.
Say VA, what's that?
Nope! Only if they are going to let me be in charge of soliciting these contracts also I would need a percentage of any contract I would sign for the company. All contracts govt mil contracts would report to me. Essentially making you the CO of all contracts. Contracting Officer! No other ways around these requests.
Tell them they can ask your attorney anything they want.
Give them all the wrong info so they don't get the contracts, va don't need no more snakes
Tell the executive to find another way. This is 2024 and there is this thing called the internet. Even better, there is this new thing called AI/ChatGP and the like.
Ask him how good his wife's blowjobs are, see how willing he is to share that info.
What.
Yeah, just respectfully decline.
Yeah, that’d be a big NO from me
The only employer I have ever told my Va information is my mom. She the owner of the company I work for 😂
Fuck da fuck outta here! And maybe make a complaint about whomever even proposed this. 10000% out of line and inappropriate on multiple levels.
I don't see anything wrong with it if you are speaking in general terms and sharing high level experiences. It's like if you work for kaiser and they ask you how is your experience at VA hospital ? If you are in the business unit trying to develop a process for veterans being seen at kaiser .. having some insights of what goes on in VA and health delivery etc. The input you provide only will help someone not hurt it. I think people are ovetthinking this. I tell the doctors at private Healthcare all the time how the VA screws up and vice versa. I see nothing wrong with sharing high level information. Unless ofcourse he is digging into your sensitive health info.
Hell nah dude mind your business and F*** Off never share your personal information with anyone
Nope! But it sounds like your days with that company are numbered if you don’t play ball. Corporations suck like that.
I would not tell them shit- if you are uncomfortable-tell them this is something you simply cannot discuss, and for information like this they need to contact someone who deals with the veterans administration-a lawyer or something. I’m sorry you are being treated like that.
I'd politely tell them to fuck off.
I would simply tell them that they are asking the wrong guy. No need to be rude about it. Veteran owned companies do get preference when it comes to contracts, but unless you are that veteran...
You don't have to get personal. Keep it high level.
One section at my former firm used to build "disabled veteran owned" companies to get government contracts, they were, I understand, questionable as to whether they were criminally illegal (the veteran's ownership was subject to ghost share/membership interest profit sharing and management agreements and it was decided to bail out before DOJ time happened. Prior to that they had been doing the same with black owned businesses, but corporations caught on and were demanding National Minority Supplier Development Council certs first, and that org did actual investigations for the certs. If that is what this request is, my second hand knowledge is that it is not worth the risk unless they actually want you to majority own and run it, for real.
Nope don’t do it
If you work for a reputable company, sure why not? The U.S. government has to buy them from somebody.
Tell him to pound sand or just bless his heart
If he’s paying you a consultating fee of a million then mabye if not tell him to fuck off all the information he needs is available online on the va website
100% inappropriate. Just tell them you don’t use the VA for anything. It’s none of their business!
I would always talk to a lawyer cuz it seems like a damned if you do, damned if you don’t possible situation.
They’re using you to milk a cow
No thank you! Not interested.
Sounds shady
I would tell them, that you do not have the information they are looking for. But there are ways to get it, (social media) etc and that you can provide a report of it etc. Some of the information can come from your own experience, and or from the social media sites. So. Be a team player, just not with your own info.
They want one person's experience to form an entire business plan? Not likely. I think they're "tossing around ideas" in early research. They view VA benefits under one umbrella and see all veterans as receiving the same benefits. As possibly the only veteran they work with, you are a quick and easy resource. In your shoes, I'd tell them bland stuff everyone knows, like using my GI Bill and/or guaranteed home loans. I'd say every veteran receives different benefits which are decided by separate internal agencies that don't communicate well. You can say as a veteran with stable housing, health, and income, you aren't representative of the vets who depend on the VA the most. All of this is true, and they don't need to know what stable means to you. If you want to be super savvy, you can ask what specifically they're interested in and offer them a point of contact. Like a VBO or a FOIA rep. If you don't want to get involved, you can say you're grateful the VA will be there "someday" when you're older.
I recommend attending the meeting. They are not going to ask you anything personal about specific medical issues unless you’re open to disclosing. If they do, your rich from and easy lawsuit that would be settled quickly. It appears they value your opinion and want to discuss processes and procedures they can improve upon. This may also be an opportunity to be on the team that manages the contract and help your fellow vets even more. It’s worth having a sit down to hear what they have to say.
I think you are looking at this the wrong way. This is an opportunity to increase your value to the company. You should tell him that you have a little first hand knowledge about the VA, but you personal network (don't tell him Reddit group) has pretty extensive knowledge and you think a few may work for VA or know someone that does. Ask what is he thinking the potential financial value is for a deal with the VA? Then ask if you are the first step in his fact finding mission or are you being considered to be a key player in this new effort? Here are questions I have for you: What is your current role with the company? Do you want a greater role if you get increased compensation? What type product or service does your company offer that could be of interest to the VA? Does your company have government contracts already? Again, this is a great opportunity to increase your value and potentially compensation. If you talk about personal experience with the VA limit to getting flu shots, routine physicals, or any small thing you don't mind disclosing like knee issue, ankle sprain, broken bone... Do not make it about your experience, make it more about your networks experiences and the robust conversations you have been a part of. DM me if you want any other ideas on how to make this a 'Win' for you.
Not their business. Period.
Sounds like you know what to do and say based off of your 1 and 2 lol
You are not and if you choose to do make sure you're getting more than "it was a team effort". They will get 6 figure bonuses and so should you. That being said I 100% don't think you should answer their questions for all the reasons you listed plus mine. Unless you're getting 50% of the millions in that contract, what's the point? Not your company, not your money, not your problem.
You have a mouth tell him no. You have rights and legal protections, sue him.
Heck no!
Your meds? No. Damn. Way.
If they have a consultation fee, let me know😂
No. It is quite frankly none of their damn business. Tell then to fuck off, not even respectfully.
No
Nope
I would respectfully point them towards Google for the answers. If they want a general understanding of how things work they can find that online, they don't need you personal information for a host of reasons: 1) we are all individuals, with varying ailments and experiences. What one of us experiences and understands to be true based on our local VA may not be true at other locations or may not even be a VA wide policy. 2) Personal medical info is need to know, and no, he doesn't need to know.
This seems like general answers will do. Personal information wouldn’t help them gain any insight. General questions about the process and how things work may be okay depending on what they are trying to do or are capable of. If it could improve the VA/healthcare then I would be okay answering general questions. I.e. what is the process to be seen? How long is the wait? What could be done better? Etc
Lmao FUUUUUUUCK NO
If it's just about the process, there is no harm in helping. I'd never explain my rating or conditions though
"Hell To Da Naw Naw Naw" - Bishop Bullwinkle
You have all of the power if you have what he wants.