Doc John

Thanks, Ricky, Since the C&P did not diagnose PTSD based on his abbreviated exam , but did concede service connected MDD; and the DRO, after review of the evidence, found FOR PTSD , which was originally claimed; we are going to have to appeal with an ammended claim for MDD... or for an increase in compensation percentage for the PTSD 0%. It seems to be a case of VA failing to use the evidence I have already presented. I am so confused! Who's on first? Doc John

CowGirl, This is a question I asked Pete, and I wanted your opinion and anyone else's who may have dealt with similar situations: I filed my claim for PTSD in 2005. At my C&P a couple of months ago the shrink conceded MDD "more likeley than not service connected but said my symptoms were not severe enough to rate me for PTSD. I requested decision review. Now the DRO (letter arrived Friday) has rated me 0% for PTSD based on all the evidence I presented. We have ammended the claim to include both MDD & PTSD. 1.) How can I get my rating increased? 2.)Do two mental health disabilities qualify me for higher compensation ratings Thanks, Doc

Thanks, Pete, I feel the same way. It can't hurt and if I spread the cost over the total time between filing my claim in 2005 and whenever I am compensated, it is down-right cheap!

Hello everyone, I got an appointment with a psychiatrist that john999 referred me to for an IMO. She worked at the James Haley VAMC in Tampa, way back when. She had no kind words for the VA paper trail or the attending shrinks. I have to pay her "out of pocket", but it may speed my claim since she knows the way the VA works. Thanks john999.