Philip Rogers

Generally, VA examiners agree w/the previous examiner. Anytime a claimant requests an increase, on an existing s/c disability, the VA is required to do another or current C&P exam. The diagnosis is a done deal and is not the problem but rather how the VA rater "rates" you. If you are having specific problems be sure the comp examiner addresses those in his/her exam report. pr

JoAnn - here's a link to the 1st Cav's history. http://www.first-team.us/journals/1stndx06.html All 1st Cav was reported to have left Vietnam in June, 1972. If you have orders you'd better make copies and keep the originals locked up. pr

JoAnn - the 1st Cav returned to the states in '71-'72. Are you sure you were in the 227th AHB in 1975? pr

http://collinsvilleherald.stltoday.com/art...lawyers.ii1.txt pr

If I understand correctly, you can now go to the CAVC and once you file, many lawyers will contact you to represent you. I can recommend Robert Chisholm, Providence, RI - he's done well for me. pr

TS Snave - will do. pr

Pete - thanks for the link! John - My lawyer said "no" to Dr Bash, doesn't think it would help. It's for A&A/housebound. The claim has a potential for some retro, so we'll see. Free - I used a DO back in the '80's and he was probably the best I've ever dealt with. as far as physicians go. My only concern is he graduated in 2002 so how much experience can he have. I'm pretty sure I'll use him. The worst thing that can happen is it's not favorable. Thanks, everyone. pr

His $25 initial fee is certainly reasonable and his IMO's prices are also very reasonable. As one who's used IMO's before in litigation, his fees appear fair and he states that if he can't help he doesn't charge. I'm just concerned as to the authenticity of everything. Anyone can do a website. We'll see what others add. Thanks! jmo pr

I'm planning on using him but have a few red flags. He graduated as a DO in 2002 but that seems a short time for all his posted qualifications. Can't find him licensed in Virginia??? I don't mind losing the money but I'm worried about my records, especially in this day of ID theft. Any info appreciated! pr

I believe that postal regs state somewhere that you don't have to pay for unsolicited materials. Check w/your local postmaster. pr

Thanks everyone, I'll pass it on to him! pr

A friend wants to complain directly to him. Thanks! pr

They should give you one free copy, under the FOIA, just like the VA does. Just tell them you are looking for errors and ommissions. After all it's the same government. You can also view it at the SS office and request copies of anything you want then. pr

Cherie33 - I wasn't scolding you and hope you didn't take it that way. If you did, I sincerely appologize!!! If you're 100% or TDIU you "may" get them to pay but it could be a long battle. The VA doesn't want to pay and tries to make you give up your claim for hospital benefits. In the future contact the "Fee Basis" office within 48 hrs of hospitalization. You may be able to argue that you contacted your VA physician (a representative of the VA) and he advised you to stay there. pr

Unless that's changed in the past couple of yrs they are required to have reviewed the c-file prior to the exam and have the file present. Please post your authority. Thanks! pr

Cherie33 - not to be rude, but since you chose to ignore my question why should the VA pay for your care? The VA is not welfare. What was the admitting hospital's final diagnosis??? pr

Cherie33 - what was the final diagnosis? Unless you are TDIU and P&T, I, personally, doubt they'll pay. I believe emergency medical care is covered in 38 CFR Chapter 17. Hospitals are required to notify the VA within a day or two of when their VA patients are treated. pr

Yes, you can. You can also photocopy the certified stickered number on the first page of the document or the certified numbered addressed envelope with the first page to prove what you sent. Your choice. pr

Try Robert Chisholm in Providence, RI. Alex recommended him to me. pr

http://news.yahoo.com/s/ap/20080119/ap_on_...n_the_homefront Hope the link works. pr

Ask them for the regulation that states it must be submitted within 30 days. I believe they are lying again. File again for your travel pay. If denied - appeal, appeal, appeal! jmo pr

Always bear in mind that VA employees are rated on what is called "work product," which means moving your file from point "A" to point "B," AKA in-box to out-box, not whether it's done right. With that in mind you should never feel offended. They screw everyone, not just you and they always assume the prior "rater's" work is correct, so they never look further than the previous rater's work product. Never ever give up. To do so is to allow them to win!!!!!!!!!!!!!! jmo pr

Ruby, the VA's goal is to win and to do this they try to get you to give up. Pease never give up!!!!!! jmo pr

Perhaps after new years I can be of more help here. About 6-7 months ago I purchased the complete set(6-7 volumes) of books on winning SSDI claims, that lawyers use, for about $750. When they arrived I lost, never even looking at them, interest and put them in storage. I just got them out and will dig into them by mid January. pr

Yes, absolutely! pr