GoldWarrior

As expected my orthopedic claim was denied. The orthopedist who did my surgery did not mention the service connection and the two other orthopedists that I saw simply copied his report. When I tried to explain the service connection to the VA C & P orthopedist he cut me off and refused to listen. On the other hand, my PTSD claim was rated at 50%. Several other claims were denied, including the one for unemployability, which was denied because I am not at a 60% threshold. So should I try to get the PTSD claim rerated at 60%, or have the orthopedic or other claims reconsidered? Also, should I ask for reconsideration, file an appeal, file a new claim, or are there other options for obtaining the 60% rating needed to reconsider the claim for unemployability? Thank You in advance ~

As expected my orthopedic claim was denied. The orthopedist who did my surgery did not mention the service connection and the two other orthopedists that I saw simply copied his report. When I tried to explain the service connection to the VA C & P orthopedist he cut me off and refused to listen. On the other hand, my PTSD claim was rated at 50%. Several other claims were denied, including the one for unemployability, which was denied because I am not at a 60% threshold. So should I try to get the PTSD claim rerated at 60%, or have the orthopedic or other claims reconsidered? Also, should I ask for reconsideration, file an appeal, file a new claim, or are there other options for obtaining the 60% rating needed to reconsider the claim for unemployability? Thank You in advance ~

Thank you Tbird. Surgery was subsequent to service, so no SMR's.

Berta ~ Thank You. What are SMR's?

The C & P exam was done at the VA clinic in Manila. What are SMR's? No in service treatment, shoulder surgery decades after discharge.

The C & P exam was done at the VA clinic in Manila. What are SMR's? No in service treatment, shoulder surgery decades after discharge.

The C & P Orthopedist completely ignored me when I told him that my orthopedic injuries were sustained during combat. What is the best way to handle this if my claim is denied? I've read about pros and cons of appealing, requesting reconsideration, and filing a new claim. Which is the best route to take?