wablackwell

Thanks, Berta, Good Information I will Try to put in for CRSC.

Hello, I wondering if I could pick your brains on what is going on here. Well the Good news I s I did win My Claim for PTSD awarded 100% P&T. This was effective as of 25 Sept 2015. But what I can not figure out is that the VA withheld $457.91 starting 1 Oct 2015 and then it changed to $459.73 Starting 1 Dec 2016 until 1 Jan 2017. I don not really understand why they withheld this money but I think it might have to do that I retired from the military. But if that is the case, Should withheld since I was over the 50% rating wich automatically qualify for CRCD( Concurrent Retirement Disability Pay ). Any Input on what is going on would be appreciated. Thanks Bill

If your not allowed to ask questions on your health over Secured messaging then what good is secure messaging. Sounds like a bunch of BS run around. I would submit a complaint to the patient advocate. I do not know if it will do any good, but at least your voice would be heard.

Buck52 is correct. The VA in el Paso tx refused to fill out a dbq or any other paper work. When I ask all they do is refer me to the compensation and pension office. Fortunate for me I am retired from the army and was able to use my Tricare to see private doctors. They had no problem writing a medical opinion or filling out a DBQ. Good luck. Bill

BrokenSoldier244th I do not have a lawyer, I submitted my SSD claim myself. I will call SSA and have them mail it to me. I already uploaded the SSD decision and when I get file SSD file will upload the basis for that decision. Thanks Bill

I just want to update my posting. I think I have found the answer on how to obtain my SSD file by surfing the internet and would I like to share with others that may be in a similar position. I found it on this web link http://www.disabilitybenefitscenter.org/how-to/obtain-social-security-disability-file . Basically, all have to do is call SSA or go to the local SSA office and request for my Social security file. It is approximately a two turn around time. So I will submit the initial letter now and my Social Security file when I receive it. Once again, Thanks Bill

Thanks for the advice. I submitted my SSD claim in the middle of July. I won my claim with the initial application. It was easy since I was gathering evidence for my VA claim I was able to use that evidence when I submitted my SSD claim. I definitely will submit my SSD approval letter. But I agree it would be better if I had the ruling notes from how they came up with the decision. I do not Know if the SSA has something equivalent to the VA C-file. I am not sure how I go about to get that information. I guess I will call the SSA on Monday and ask how I can get that information. I do know that when I submitted my claim I only put down the disabilities that I was awarded by the VA and the disability that I am currently claiming(PTSD). It took SSA only 4 and a half month to make a decision from the time I submitted my application. I wish the VA worked that quick. Bill

Hello, Hadit Community. I was told that the VA and Social Security are separate identities. But I was also told that if you get an approve Social Security disability claim that is based totally the same of your VA disabilities that it could help your VA disability claim. Well, I got a letter in mail today stating that my Social Security Disability Claim was approved. But the letter was not specific on the reason it was approved but said it was approved based on the information I submitted. Well the information that I submitted to SSA was based on my current VA disability and the new one which I have a current claim in for(PTSD). So my question is even though my letter was not specific for the reason it was approved should I upload this letter to Ebenefit and add as evidence to my claim? Thank you for your advise.

Thanks Buck for your opinion, I know how slow this process can be. Hopefully, I will get a decision in the near future, Thanks

Hell0, I had a C&P Exam on 18 October, I finally got results. Would mind giving me your opinion on the exam. Date/Time: 18 Oct 2016 @ 0900 Note Title: C&P PTSD, INITIAL EVALUATION Location: EL PASO VA HEALTHCARE SYSTEM Signed By: HENDRY,KARA MATILE Co-signed By: HENDRY,KARA MATILE Date/Time Signed: 01 Nov 2016 @ 0831 ------------------------------------------------------------------------- LOCAL TITLE: C&P PTSD, INITIAL EVALUATION STANDARD TITLE: MENTAL HEALTH C & P EXAMINATION CONSULT DATE OF NOTE: OCT 18, 2016@09:00 ENTRY DATE: NOV 01, 2016@08:31:17 AUTHOR: Lastname,First name EXP COSIGNER: URGENCY: STATUS: COMPLETED Initial Post Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD) Disability Benefits Questionnaire * Internal VA or DoD Use Only * Name of patient/Veteran: MY Name SECTION I: ---------- 1. Diagnostic Summary --------------------- Does the Veteran have a diagnosis of PTSD that conforms to DSM-5 criteria based on today's evaluation? [X] Yes [ ] No ICD code: F43.10 2. Current Diagnoses -------------------- a. Mental Disorder Diagnosis #1: Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder with delayed expression ICD code: F43.10 b. Medical diagnoses relevant to the understanding or management of the Mental Health Disorder (to include TBI): irritable bowel syndrome; enuresis; encopresis 3. Differentiation of symptoms ------------------------------ a. Does the Veteran have more than one mental disorder diagnosed? [ ] Yes [X] No c. Does the Veteran have a diagnosed traumatic brain injury (TBI)? [ ] Yes [ ] No [X] Not shown in records reviewed 4. Occupational and social impairment ------------------------------------- a. Which of the following best summarizes the Veteran's level of occupational and social impairment with regards to all mental diagnoses? (Check only one) [X] Total occupational and social impairment b. For the indicated level of occupational and social impairment, is it possible to differentiate what portion of the occupational and social impairment indicated above is caused by each mental disorder? [ ] Yes [ ] No [X] No other mental disorder has been diagnosed c. If a diagnosis of TBI exists, is it possible to differentiate what portion of the occupational and social impairment indicated above is caused by the TBI? [ ] Yes [ ] No [X] No diagnosis of TBI SECTION II: ----------- Clinical Findings: ------------------ 1. Evidence Review ------------------ Evidence reviewed (check all that apply): [X] VA e-folder (VBMS or Virtual VA) [X] CPRS [X] Other (please identify other evidence reviewed): JLV 2. History ---------- a. Relevant Social/Marital/Family history (pre-military, military, and post-military): The Veteran was born in San Antonio, Texas. He has one brother and two sisters. He was reared in Tulsa, Oklahoma and grauated from Owasso High School in 1988. He reported that his father worked as a truck driver in the past and "was strict". His father was later employed by the postal service. He said that his mother worked for American Airlines in data management. Upon his high school graduation, Mr. Blackwell entered the Army on 11/29/1988, per his DD 214. His MOS was 14E30/Patriot FC Operator. He was discharged on 11/30/2008. Mr Blackwell has been married for 25 years, and he and his wife have two children, a son and a daughter. According to the Veteran, his 22-year-old son "never had a job, but is trying to join the Air Force". The Vereran's 15-year-old daughter, was recently caught for smoking marijuana. Mr. Blackwell noted, "I set new rules, and now she gets OTC drug tested. She has been a 'straight A' student." His parents are till together, and they live in Oklahoma. Mr. Blackwell reported that he had an aunt with mental health difficulties and that she is now deceased. b. Relevant Occupational and Educational history (pre-military, military, and post-military): Regarding his educational performance history, Mr. Blackwell noted, "I was a 'C' student. That's why I joined the Army." He enlisted on 11/29/1988, and, as mentioned above, his MOS was 14E30/Patriot FC Operator. His deployments are as follows: Saudi Arabia in 1993 - Per available records, Mr. Blackwell reported having been deployed to this area five times. Turkey in 1999 Kuwait from 01/2003 to 06/2003 He received multiple Army service awards, including Army Commendation Medals and Army Achievement Medals (among others). On April 29, 2003, he received a recommendation for an award designating his service that "helped to maintain the battery's high readiness". Regarding disciplinary actions, the Veteran reported having obtained "maybe four to seven counseling statements", but no Article 15s. He was discharged from Army active duty on November 30, 2008. Following his discharge, he "tried college from 2009 to 2012, but I would make either 'Ws' (withdrawals) or 'Fs' (failures). I couln't concentrate, and I would skip class, because I had too much anxiety." He worked for White Sands Missile Range as a civilian security guard with normal duties, until 2014, when he was placed on light duty, during which time "they were evaluating me for a year at a clinic on base." Subsequent to this evaluation process, per his evaluating mental health provider, on April 29, 2016, it was "determined he is not fit for duty. Mr. Blackwell has a long history of significant behavioral health issues which have not responded to treatment. In addition to counseling he has been prescribed numerous psychotropic medications including Prazosin, Abilify, Paxil, Ambien, Effexor, Trazodone and Zoloft. Most recently, last year, he was in an intensive 8-week VA inpatient treatment program for Veterans suffering from Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder. While he showed some treatment gains from the experience, in my opinion, he remains unfit for duty." Since this time, the Veteran reported that he performs household duties, such as "making dinner, vacuuming things around the house, and going to weekly appointments". c. Relevant Mental Health history, to include prescribed medications and family mental health (pre-military, military, and post-military): Mr. Blackwell reported, "During the military, I had feelings like sadness, depression, and anxiety, but I held it in. It was the military. You don't say anything. I was too embarrassed to tell people. When I had five years left (active duty), I did say something in the questionnaires, but nobody did anything." He continued, "I can't sleep. I have nightmares of being attacked in the perimeter...scuds coming in...convoy getting attacked. I have seen people die in my dreams. I have seen people get shot and died. I wake up kicking and punching about three times a week. I have a CPAP machine and Prazosin. That's supposed to get rid of the nightmares." The Veteran's available records were not significant for much mental health treatment during his active duty. Per 08/06/2013 note, Mr. Blackwell was involved in "a couple of sessions while active duty in 2002...he did not find them helpful." At that time, there was no history of psychiatric hospitalizations or psychotropic medications. Mr. Blackwell did not report any mental health-related difficulties following his discharge from the Army until several years subsequent to his 11/30/2008 discharge. For example, on a 01/21/2010 OEF/OIF note, the provider reported a negative PTSD screen for Mr. Blackwell (PTSD 4Q score of 0). 06/22/2010 PTSD and depression screens were negative. There were also no reports of PTSD symptoms, such as nightmares. The next month (07/21/2010), he continued to deny mental health symptoms, though he also reported difficulties with sleep. In 2011, a note reported that "all was going well". As mentioned, the Veteran was in the process of attending school, which initiated in 2009 and continued for a couple of years, until the Veteran began to have problem with concentration and anxiety and was skipping school. During today's evaluation, he remembered having had fear related to being in class groups at the time. The Veteran reportedly did not seek mental health treatment during his time on active duty, "due to employment that keeps close watch on employee medical and mental health due to job responsibilities" (per ELP MH Intake note dated 08/06/2013). According to available electronic records, on 11/24/2014, there was a "concern that mental status was deteriorating", and it was determined that Mr. Blackwell to be unfit for duty. The next month, he was hospitalized at University Behavioral Health on 12/12/2014 and placed on new psychotropic medication. He was discharged on 12/24/2014 with (relevant) diagnoses of post-traumatic stress disorder, severe major depressive disorder, suicidal ideation, irritable bowel syndrome, and pain. In 2015, an ELP MH provider recommended that the Veteran attend inpatient PTSD services. In 09/2015, Mr. Blackwell was admitted to the Temple Texas VAMC and received PRRC (Psychosocial Rehabilitation Recovery) treatment until his discharge in November (2015). Such mental health stabilization treatment services included treatment via music therapy, among others. Records were found in support of a PTSD diagnosis earlier this year, when on 04/13/2016, a C&P evaluator reported the Veteran had "continuing symptoms of PTSD". On 09/21/2016, he was admitted to a third psychiatric inpatient facility (UBH/El Paso Behavioral Health) after he presented at the El Paso VA for services and was found to be "shaking" in the lobby. He was discharged in October (2016) after a 21-day treatment program. The Veteran has had ongoing suicide risk factors during the past several years, which have continued to be treated with ongoing mental health services and inpatient psychiatric stabilization. Risk assessment on 10/17/2016 reported ongoing risk, but that the Veteran was "stable under current circumstances". He has been involved in intensive weekly individual therapy with a mental health social worker and is being treated via medication management, as well, to ensure his safety and mental health stabilization. d. Relevant Legal and Behavioral history (pre-military, military, and post-military): Mr. Blackwell denied history of legal or behavioral difficulties, aside from some counseling statements received, while on active duty. Available electronic chart records are consistent with this. e. Relevant Substance abuse history (pre-military, military, and post-military): Mr. Blackwell reported some alcohol use history, whereby "I probably drink once a month...three or four drinks." He denied drug or tobacco use history. Available electronic recorcs do not dispute this. f. Other, if any: No response provided. 3. Stressors ------------ Describe one or more specific stressor event(s) the Veteran considers traumatic (may be pre-military, military, or post-military): a. Stressor #1: "We were in Iraq around 03/21/2003....I lost people I saw every day. They got trapped in the convoy. They took a wrong turn and went through an area they shouldn't have, and they got fired upon. The first sergeant died." Does this stressor meet Criterion A (i.e., is it adequate to support the diagnosis of PTSD)? [X] Yes [ ] No Is the stressor related to the Veteran's fear of hostile military or terrorist activity? [X] Yes [ ] No Is the stressor related to personal assault, e.g. military sexual trauma? [ ] Yes [X] No b. Stressor #2: "We mistakenly shot an American plane down. Two British and one American died....I have a lot of guilt about it." Does this stressor meet Criterion A (i.e., is it adequate to support the diagnosis of PTSD)? [X] Yes [ ] No Is the stressor related to the Veteran's fear of hostile military or terrorist activity? [X] Yes [ ] No Is the stressor related to personal assault, e.g. military sexual trauma? [ ] Yes [X] No c. Stressor #3: "We got small arms fire in perimeter of April 2003. It was scary...I thought I was going to die that night." Does this stressor meet Criterion A (i.e., is it adequate to support the diagnosis of PTSD)? [X] Yes [ ] No Is the stressor related to the Veteran's fear of hostile military or terrorist activity? [X] Yes [ ] No Is the stressor related to personal assault, e.g. military sexual trauma? [ ] Yes [X] No d. Additional stressors: If additional stressors, describe (list using the above sequential format): Stressor #4: "There were a lot of scud alerts...constant scud launches. It was a scary time, because we didn't know what was going to happen. I thought about my family and last wishes. It happened continuously for three weeks every day. It was a strain on the body and the brain." Does the stressor meet Criterion A? Yes Is the stressor related to the Veteran's fear of hostile military or terrorist activity? Yes 4. PTSD Diagnostic Criteria --------------------------- Please check criteria used for establishing the current PTSD diagnosis. Do NOT mark symptoms below that are clearly not attributable to the Criterion A stressor/PTSD. Instead, overlapping symptoms clearly attributable to other things should be noted under #7 - Other symptoms. The diagnostic criteria for PTSD, referred to as Criterion A-H, are from the Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders, 5th edition (DSM-5). Criterion A: Exposure to actual or threatened a) death, b) serious injury, c) sexual violence, in one or more of the following ways: [X] Directly experiencing the traumatic event(s) [X] Witnessing, in person, the traumatic event(s) as they occurred to others [X] Learning that the traumatic event(s) occurred to a close family member or close friend; cases of actual or threatened death must have been violent or accidental; or, experiencing repeated or extreme exposure to aversive details of the traumatic events(s) (e.g., first responders collecting human remains; police officers repeatedly exposed to details of child abuse); this does not apply to exposure through electronic media, television, movies, or pictures, unless this exposure is work related. Criterion B: Presence of (one or more) of the following intrusion symptoms associated with the traumatic event(s), beginning after the traumatic event(s) occurred: [X] Recurrent distressing dreams in which the content and/or affect of the dream are related to the traumatic event(s). [X] Intense or prolonged psychological distress at exposure to internal or external cues that symbolize or resemble an aspect of the traumatic event(s). Criterion C: Persistent avoidance of stimuli associated with the traumatic event(s), beginning after the traumatic events(s) occurred, as evidenced by one or both of the following: [X] Avoidance of or efforts to avoid distressing memories, thoughts, or feelings about or closely associated with the traumatic event(s). Criterion D: Negative alterations in cognitions and mood associated with the traumatic event(s), beginning or worsening after the traumatic event(s) occurred, as evidenced by two (or more) of the following: [X] Persistent negative emotional state (e.g., fear, horror, anger, guilt, or shame). [X] Feelings of detachment or estrangement from others. Criterion E: Marked alterations in arousal and reactivity associated with the traumatic event(s), beginning or worsening after the traumatic event(s) occurred, as evidenced by two (or more) of the following: [X] Hypervigilance. [X] Sleep disturbance (e.g., difficulty falling or staying asleep or restless sleep). Criterion F: [X] Duration of the disturbance (Criteria B, C, D, and E) is more than 1 month. Criterion G: [X] The disturbance causes clinically significant distress or impairment in social, occupational, or other important areas of functioning. Criterion H: [X] The disturbance is not attributable to the physiological effects of a substance (e.g., medication, alcohol) or another medical condition. Criterion I: Which stressor(s) contributed to the Veteran's PTSD diagnosis?: [X] Stressor #1 [X] Stressor #2 [X] Stressor #3 [X] Other, please indicate stressor number (i.e., Stressor #4, #5, etc.) as indicated above: Stresso #4 5. Symptoms ----------- For VA rating purposes, check all symptoms that actively apply to the Veteran's diagnoses: [X] Depressed mood [X] Anxiety [X] Suspiciousness [X] Chronic sleep impairment [X] Mild memory loss, such as forgetting names, directions or recent events [X] Flattened affect [X] Disturbances of motivation and mood [X] Difficulty in establishing and maintaining effective work and social relationships [X] Difficulty in adapting to stressful circumstances, including work or a worklike setting [X] Suicidal ideation 6. Behavioral Observations -------------------------- Mr. Blackwell reported to this examination in a timely manner. Prior to beginning the examination, he was advised of the nature and purpose of the examination and the limits of confidentiality as applies to any contact with a mental health professional, but specifically the forensic disability examination. He verbalized understanding these limitations and the fact that this particular meeting was for the purposes of the disability examination and not for treatment purposes. He was neatly attired and appropriately groomed. He appeared his stated age. He was oriented X3 and appeared to demonstrate grossly intact memory for distant and recent events. On this date, his mood was appropriate. His eye contact was appropriate. Speech was normal. There were no indications of confusion, disorientation or psychotic thinking during this interview. Mr. Blackwell is estimated to be at moderate-to-high risk for suicidal behavior at this time. He does have significant chronic (historical) risk factors noted through records review, (history of inpatient psychiatric admissions and history of suicide behaviors.) He has had 3 psychiatric inpatient admissions (12/2014-2 weeks at UBH/El Paso Behavioral Health; 09/20-11/12/2015 Temple Texas VA; and most recently, 09/21-10/12/2016 at UBH/El Paso Behavioral Health. His risk is higher than that of an individual without a stressor disorder and without a history of psychiatric inpatient admissions. This level of severity is evidenced by the flag placed on his records subsequent to recent suicidal behavior. However, there was no imminent risk during this evaluation, and the Veteran receives ongoing weekly counseling sessions with a mental health provider. Therefore, he appears stable, at this point. His protective factors include connections with the VA Healthcare System, ongoing mental health treatment, and his family. On this date, while he reported some passive suicidal ideation, he denied plan or intent. The Veteran underscored this by remarking, "I think about my kids and my wife... that stops me. I feel hopeless sometimes, but then I think what that would do to my kids." He was advised of the resources available to veterans and active duty military service members, in case of a mental health crisis, such as using the Veteran's Crisis Line, reporting to the local Emergency Room for a psychiatric evaluation for inpatient care, or calling 9-1-1 in situation in which there is imminent danger of suicidal or homicide or if he feels he cannot function due to a severe escalation in symptoms. He was provided a wallet card with suicide risk factors and warning signs on one side and the umber of the Veteran's Crisis Line on the other, and he agreed to call the number in case of a mental health crisis. He reported having called this number about 6 weeks ago, and that he was provided helpful information when he called. 7. Other symptoms ----------------- Does the Veteran have any other symptoms attributable to PTSD (and other mental disorders) that are not listed above? [ ] Yes [X] No 8. Competency ------------- Is the Veteran capable of managing his or her financial affairs? [X] Yes [ ] No 9. Remarks, (including any testing results) if any -------------------------------------------------- When asked to describe his current problems and impairments, Mr. Blackwell described symptoms that are characteristic of a stressor disorder such as sleep related difficulties ("I can't sleep"), intrusive symptoms ("I have nightmares,"), marked alterations in reactivity ("I am hypervigilant"), persistent negative emotional state ("I have a lot of guilt"). The MMPI-2 was administered to obtain additional information regarding the Veteran's current functioning, Results are below: L F K HS D HY PD MF PA PT SC MA SI Raw Score: 3 12 11 23 39 31 23 22 18 36 37 16 55 K Corr. 6 4 11 11 2 T Score: 48 73 41 88 91 74 59 42 79 94 87 45 84 ? Cannot Say (Raw): 0 F-K (Raw): 1 Percent True: 47 Percent False: 53 Profile Elev.: 77.1 Welsh Code (new): 72*180"63'-4/95: F'-/LK: unable to show ties The MMPI-2 "validity" scales revealed a willingness to acknowledge serious problems and symptoms, although without evidence of exaggeration or magnification that might suggest negative dissimulation or malingering. Hence, the current result were believed to be an accurate representation of current adjustment. The MMPI-2 clinical profile included multiple elevations denoting the presence of serious psychological and emotional disturbance. Patients with this pattern would be vulnerable to even modest levels of increased stress that could trigger periods of more pronounced breakdown in the clarity of thinking and processing. In association with unusual, ruminative, and disturbed thinking likely to incorporate somatic preoccupations and paranoid fears, persons rendering this configuration appear prone to high levels of anxiety and internal agitation accompanied by restlessness and irritability. The MMPI-2 pattern also underscored the presence of distress, unhappiness, and propensities for social avoidance and introversion, The somatic fears and preoccupations evidenced by these patients might incorporate multiple body systems, and often include perceived neurologic dysfunction such as irregular perceptions, altered states of consciousness, impaired processing, and defective memory. Mr. Blackwell endorsed several MMPI-2 critical items during today's evaluation. For example, he answered "TRUE" to items reading: "At times I have a strong urge to do something harmful or shocking," "The future seems hopeless to me," and "I have recently considered killing myself." During careful post-test debriefing and exploration, he stated, "My children keep me from doing it...I do coping skills, listen to music and cook. I find ways to null and void the (suicidal) thoughts...it has not gone that far." On this date, he denied current intent to harm himself or another person, and he promised to seek further professional mental health treatment if ever having such thoughts or impulses. He was provided with the national crisis hotline number (800-273-TALK). It is this Examiner's opinion that that Veteran is currently experiencing Post-traumatic Stress Disorder with delayed expression. This diagnosis is evidenced by his treatment records, testing, and personal interview. PTSD, while generally occurring with several months of an incurred stressor, may take years to emerge. Such situations, while not common, are possible. As the Veteran noted, he did not seek mental health services during Army active duty, although, per his report, he had been experiencing mental health-related difficulties such as depression and anxiety. He also has been diagnosed with medical issues, such as enuresis and encopresis, which likely increase the expression of his PTSD symptoms. As mentioned above, he is currently receiving ongoing weekly mental health counseling. He also receives psychotropic treatment for his current symptoms of PTSD (such as anxiety and depression), which appear to have stabilized his functioning, at least for the time being. Notably, findings and impressions derived from a PTSD C&P Examination could not be used to comment on the physical aspects of functioning in the employment realm. However, results and impressions gleaned from a PTSD Examination would be useful in assessing crucial mental, emotional, cognitive, and/or social aspects of functioning which relate to the capacity to perform substantial gainful employment. Thus, in accordance with the results from today's evaluation, this Veteran was believed to possess the following work-related abilities, limitations or impairments: "Marked Limitation" in the work setting in the following categories: --The ability to perform activities within a schedule, maintain regular attendance, and be punctual within customary tolerances. --The ability to work in coordination with or proximity to others without being distracted by them. --The ability to complete a normal workday and work-week without interruptions from psychologically based symptoms and to perform at a consistent pace without an unreasonable number and length of rest periods. --The ability to accept instructions and respond appropriately to criticism from supervisors. --The ability to get along with coworkers or peers without distracting them or exhibiting behavioral extremes. --The ability to set realistic work-related goals or make plans independently of others. --The ability to respond to changes in the work setting. "Moderate Limitation" in the work setting in the following categories: --The ability to maintain attention and concentration for extended periods. --The ability to sustain an ordinary routine without special supervision. --The ability to interact appropriately with the general public --The ability to understand and remember detailed instructions. --The ability to carry out detailed instructions. --The ability to remember location and work-like procedures. --The ability to understand and remember very short and simple instructions. "Mild Limitation" in the work setting in the following categories: --The ability to maintain socially appropriate behavior and to adhere to basic standards of neatness and cleanliness. --The ability to make simple work-related decisions. "No Limitation" in the work setting in the following categories: --The ability to be aware of normal hazards and take appropriate precaution --The ability to travel to unfamiliar places or use public transportation. --The ability to ask simple questions or request assistance. NOTE: VA may request additional medical information, including additional examinations if necessary to complete VA's review of the Veteran's application. **************************************************************************** Medical Opinion Disability Benefits Questionnaire Name of patient/Veteran: My Name ACE and Evidence Review ----------------------- Indicate method used to obtain medical information to complete this document: [X] In-person examination Evidence Review --------------- Evidence reviewed (check all that apply): [X] VA e-folder (VBMS or Virtual VA) [X] CPRS [X] Other (please identify other evidence reviewed): JLV MEDICAL OPINION SUMMARY ----------------------- RESTATEMENT OF REQUESTED OPINION: a. Opinion from general remarks: Is it as least as likely as not (greater than 50 percent probability) that the Veteran's PTSD is a result of an in-service stressor related event (fear of enemy/hostile activity, Iraq)? b. Indicate type of exam for which opinion has been requested: DBQ INITIAL PTSD TYPE OF MEDICAL OPINION PROVIDED: [ MEDICAL OPINION FOR DIRECT SERVICE CONNECTION ] a. The condition claimed was at least as likely as not (50% or greater probability) incurred in or caused by the claimed in-service injury, event or illness. c. Rationale: It is this Examiner's opinion that that Veteran is currently experiencing Post-traumatic Stress Disorder with delayed expression. This diagnosis is evidenced by his treatment records, testing, and personal interview. PTSD, while generally occurring with several months of an incurred stressor, may take years to emerge. Such situations, while not common, are possible. As the Veteran noted, he did not seek mental health services during Army active duty, although, per his report, he had been experiencing mental health-related difficulties such as depression and anxiety. He also has been diagnosed with medical issues, such as enuresis and encopresis, which likely increase the expression of his PTSD symptoms. As mentioned above, he is currently receiving weekly mental health counseling and also receives psychotropic treatment of his current symptoms of PTSD (such as anxiety and depression), which appear to have stabilized his functioning, at least for the time being. TYPE OF MEDICAL OPINION PROVIDED: [ OPINION REGARDING CONFLICTING MEDICAL EVIDENCE ] I have reviewed the conflicting medical evidence and am providing the following opinion: There is no conflicting medical evidence. ************************************************************************* /es/ Ohyscholist name Clinical Psychologist Signed: 11/01/2016 08:31 Thankyou, Bill

I am in the same boat. I was let go from my federal job for PTSD on 2 July. I put my disability retirement package in around the end of June. I received a call from an ABC counselor about a week after I put my package in and he gave me my initial counseling over the phone on what to expect. I was told the average time it takes is six months. If that is true I should hear something back around December. Good luck. I hope this helps, Bill

Thanks, Broncovet, I think that is good advice.

Hello, just trying advice on my fully Developed Claim. I originally did an intent to file in September of 2015 for a PTSD claim and filed the claim in August of 2016. On 21 September 2016, I went to the VA in El Paso for my regular therapy counseling and the Therapist though that my condition had gotten worsed and I need to be hospitalized. I was Admitted to the El Paso Behavioral Hospital on 21 September and discharged on 12 October 2016 for a total of 21 days. Since I filed a FDC should I wait and see what happens with my claim or should I go ahead and upload this new evidence to my claim? If I upload the new evidence it could delay my claim but it might also help my claim. Thanks, Bill

I saw my counselor today for PTSD. She wants to get me tested for TBI. I told her that I never been Been our IED"s or big explosion. But I have got hit in the head several time in my military career. Even had an concussions and got stitches in my head. Could that cause TBI? The reason she was to get me tested is that I have a hard time memory to do simple task. I even forget that I already took my my prescriptions and then I take them again or gorget I took them at all. Could I have TBI by getting hit in the head several times in my military career. What are the symptoms of TBI. Thanks Bill

You can only see the C&P exam if it was done at the VA. I it is done by VES(Veterans Evaluation service) then this is done by and outside doctor and will not show up in your VA medical files but will be sent to your c-file.