STUMPED

[Wayne TX]

I had a C & P DBQ done by a VA ENT Clinic in late 2015. The VA examiner diagnosis was Hyposmia ( reduced ability to detect odors) and  Hypogeuisa (decrease in sense of taste).  I was made an award of  0% for both based on the C & P Examiner stating in Remarks Section: "It is at least as likely as not loss of smell/taste is related to SC allergic rhinitis."  Further, under Remarks, C & P examiner stated "No reagents available in ENT clinic to test loss of smell/taste."  I did not identify with the word "reagent" so I looked up the medical definition:  :"a substance used in a chemical reaction."  I was given no testing substance or even a blind test of any kind at this C&P exam therefore stumped in putting together a challenge of "how could a Medical Opinion be determined as reduced, near total, or total loss without reagents involved? If I have to be out of pocket to pay for independent testing done now that would still just be one opinion versus this one and whose to say that testing would meet VA's standards and be thrown out ?????  I will be seeking at a DRO Hearing a compensable award of 10% without any evidence to the contrary to provide as I currently have none.  If no reagents were "available" whose fault is that?  VA or Vet? I'm worse off than just reduced, but I still have no idea to what degree because no testing results. At what degree does total loss trump a reduced opinion? I'm clueless.  This is NUTS and confusing!    Seeking a little friendly advise on how to handle this NOD?  Any suggestions appreciated. 

Edited July 17, 2017 by Wayne TX

[Wayne TX]

I agree he was very cold and indifferent.............the opposite end of Vet Friendly.   He conducted no test....just looked up my nose and asked me maybe a half dozen questions........that was the whole exam....15 minutes tops.   I do intend to explain all that at DRO Hearing and most likely I'll get a remand in protesting no testing was done and then heaven forbid what do if Waco RO sends me right back to him again for that C & P. He also listed my active duty period wrong serving 20 years........served just three.