Captain D

This is a simple case and it all boils down to what is the current state of the S/C condition. What are the labs telling his doctors? What permanent conditions have came about from the surgery or secondary conditions from the S/C condition?

1. If the kidney disease has generally improved and labs show normal kidney function then the reduction is warranted.
The basis for this is simple- the S/C condition improved. Although, there is a permanent residual, the 30% rating would reflect the current status of the condition. You generally don't loose a kidney during a transplant, but rather a kidney is added to improve the overall kidney function (which is to filter out toxins). That is why the labs are important, because they generally show the present state of the condition.

2. Since the R/O has made the proposal, go ahead and file any secondary claims (if not done so already), off the top of my head, 10% for the painful scar (if it is), and HTP (if the vet has such).

Thank you, yes the vet has had numerous outpatient surgeries for skin cancer, has hypertension and GERD. Also a gall bladder removal surgery. I've found clinical discussions of links between all and kidney disease/kidney transplant surgery. We're in the process now of having his doctors write IMO's linking these conditions to his kidney disease/kidney transplant surgery.

I'll ask him about the scar, he may not realize he can claim it if painful.

We're waiting for copies of his medical records from the VAMC and his military medical records, as well as a copy of his claims file (which I don't think we'll get anytime soon, or in time before the meter runs out on the proposal to reduce). I know we need to see those lab results.

He did write an objection and asked for a hearing, which buys him some time.

Thanks again!