LEXINGTON, N.C. — Kenneth Miller talks fondly about his time in the military. Proud of his service and grateful for the experiences, “We went to the Mediterranean and South America,” said Miller.
These days trips around the world are not likely, as Miller struggles to simply walk more than 100 feet without needing to rest. On oxygen the past four years Miller deals with asthma and COPD, “I know I need it (oxygen), I know I need it,” said Miller.
The 79-year-old has been receiving oxygen from the VA as part of his needed medications, “That’s my lifeline,” said Miller.
A lifeline that looked like it may be cut off. After a recent exam at the VA that included a quick walking test a clinician at the VA felt Miller’s oxygen was no longer needed, “If she cuts it off and I have an attack, I’m done,” said Miller.
The clinician’s opinion was much different than physicians at Miller’s personal doctor’s office. Concerned the VA would no longer pay for oxygen Miller and his wife reached out to WFMY News 2.
We contacted a spokesperson with the VA who assured us she would investigate the matter. After consulting with the acting Chief of Staff the VA decided to conduct a more extensive walking test to determine if oxygen was needed.
The test was performed by Dr. Mark Heuser who is one of the Associate Chief of Staffs at the VA. The test is a simple six-minute walking test that determines the amount of oxygen the blood gets while Miller is moving or exerting himself.
The test didn’t last long, after about three minutes Miller was having difficulty breathing, “His oxygen level dropped,” said Dr. Heuser.
Miller was able to sit down and rest while his vitals improved, “I was really struggling,” said Miller. A decision was then made to end the test out of concern for Miller, “Based on the test he will receive supplemental oxygen,” said Dr. Heuser.
The test confirming what Miller always believed, oxygen is needed. The VA will provide oxygen as part of his medications for the next 12 months, “Thank you so very much, I really appreciate you guys (News 2) helping me,” said Miller.
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