When I originally applied for disability, I was denied with the response " Service Connection may be granted for a disability which began in military service or was caused by some event or experience in service. Service connection for (headaches, left knee condition, and right knee condition) is denied because the medical evidence of record fails to show that this disability has been clinically diagnosed".
When my PCP and the NP went through my record they found a diagnoses of Patellofemoral Syndrome in 2008, but my PCP stated that my migraine headaches were more than likely getting worse because of my depression. The depression was not an argument at all. Its on several pages of my record, with perceptions for the condition.
The rationale that the NP provided was that my separation assessment in" 2013 indicated that the condition healed". However at my time of separation, I hand wrote out that I was still experiencing pain. The medical provider who signed off stated, " the rare discomfort she reports is non limiting". I would think that at this time me reporting the pain and her saying its just non limiting would still mean that it is not healed.
Also I reported the "severe and unusual headaches" in 2008. I was never diagnosed and was taking motrin. But I always reported them. At separation, the medical officer wrote " She has not been seen for headaches for a few years She is not taking any prescription medication for headaches". My symptoms were reported as "I get dizzy often and have headaches" and on another report, "Often find myself dizzy (unknown why), never fainted. Headaches daily (taking motrin). These are all things I reported during service and before exiting service. How are they not service connection.
No one took a blood or urine sample from me, so how could estrogen levels be an indication of the reasoning for my headaches. And because I reported these things to the military before I left and no one did anything about it, doesn't that show a disregard for my health concerns. I mean here I am telling these medical professionals that I have headaches and I get dizzy from them and no one is saying you might need something stronger than motrin. No one is saying lets get you a neuro consult. I mean if I knew then what I know now, I would have. But I didn't so they should be more willing to take care of their veterans. I shouldn't have to suffer or worry about losing my job due to having trouble with lights in my company's office. And I shouldn't have to wait another 3 years for benefits.
After submitting this information to ebenefits I felt good pointing out that these conditions were there and that I had been telling the Navy for years, but I cant help but wonder if it will get over looked.
Has anyone heard anything about the benefit of the doubt doctrine? Do you think it will apply here?