Vync

I was just curious because positioning a patient in different ways can produce different results. For example, while standing, upper body weight presses down on the spine, which makes it easier to spot things like narrowing of space between vertebrae/degenerative disc disease. However, if they have you laying face up on the x-ray table, the weight will be relieved and in some cases the space may look more normal.

Hey mos, When the x-ray was performed, were you standing or did they have you laying down on a table?

I got tired of being seen by residents and NP's at the VA, so they switched me to a clinic with experienced doctors. After a few years, they suddenly started bringing NP's in and the quality of care went downhill. A lot of time, people with good insurance may have great coverage, but a high co-pay or deductible. That can drive them to seek care at the VA to help keep costs under control. Priority groups really do make a difference. I was sitting at the pharmacy and heard a couple of folks discussing how lame it was that they would have to wait six months for an appointment.

I agree

No problems here

Thank you!

If someone has a POA with a VSO, like DAV or VFW, do they have to revoke it if they get a lawyer to represent them for a NOD or appeal?

Congratulations! It's always a good thing!

lol

If you are not comfortable with a particular provider, you can request another one. In some cases, people may be more comfortable talking to a man or a woman.

I agree with you on this. I remember receiving multiple shots and being told it was the flu vaccine, but my records only show it was for the flu. In many cases, blood work can be done to detect antibodies or tiders for things. I wonder if anyone has tried to get tested for this. It would be very suspect if someone who did not get deployed had anthrax antibodies in their system.

I'm no expert, but would 'mere speculation' represent 50/50, as in maybe, maybe not? If that is the case, would arguing relative equipoise be a good idea?

More info about hydrocele's http://www.mayoclinic.com/health/hydrocele/DS00617 Because you indicate having pain, you might want to read this....

Earlier this month, I was talking with my RO (1-800 number). They told me that several letters were sent out, but they were unable to tell me the purpose of any letter. I received one a week later, but it was unimportant. I have not received any other letters. I am concerned that they might be related to my NOD/DRO and a couple of pending claims. Any letters/envelopes I receive from my RO are always 'bulk rate postage paid' and are not postmarked, so I cannot tell when they were shipped. Important letters always say 'respond within x days'. Because they keep copies in my c-file, they automatically assume I received the letter. If it is something date sensitive, it could turn into a big problem. Any recommendations? Thanks

---what bronchovet said Also, if you get or have a VA ebenefits account, what is posted there may be different from the 1-800 number too

I just read this and am not surprised. There's a 4 min video too. Posted this here because the article says the VA is denying claims because of missing records. To view - copy and paste the below into your address bar. http://www.armytimes.com/news/2011/02/gannett-army-told-units-to-destroy-gulf-war-medical-records-021111/

Hey wolf, Being diagnosed with PTSD is a big hurdle to cross. But the VA will also need additional information to confirm the stressor(s). If your PTSD was combat related, certain combat awards and other evidence may be required. If your PTSD was due to personal assault, other information will be required (see VBA Form 21-0781a, section 7 on page 3). Your decision letter explains the details why your claim was denied. Did they indicate anything else other than the hearsay part? The VA should say if the stressors have been confirmed or not. In tough situations like this, I would also recommend Ron's advice to locate a good attorney, probably one that works on contingency. This means they get paid a portion of any backpay you may receive involving the claim. Something of something is better than nothing. Also, don't let your claim go stale and don't give up!

If you are not getting any results from the search, clear the cache and cookies from your web browser. Also, if you had a decision posted on there before, it should still be there.

Congratulations on a long and hard fought victory!

Yeah, some of the C&P docs are a-holes. Did your regular therapy/psych doc note disagreement? Have they opined as to your OC impairment?

This is good advice. Definitely spell it out for the DRO. Also, FanaticBooks has posted some extremely helpful information which can help you assemble a very effective claim

I believe it is possible, but conclusive findings and a doc opining in your favor would be very helpful. If you have a significant other, a buddy statement from them could also be beneficial. Regarding your AR being 'acute' that usually means you have flare ups, but not necessarily considered a long term problem. Have you had any sleep studies? I have chronic service-connected AR (for 15+ years) had a sleep study which found I have some apneas, but not serious enough to warrant a CPAP. The outside facility the VA uses was definitely low budget and I could not get comfortable enough to get much sleep at all. I am considering having one done privately at a better quality facility later in the year. There are a bunch of folks here on Hadit who have SA. Be sure to search the forums here too. You will find a lot of SA discussions. Also, you could always research BVA claims to see if there are any cases for it.

I had an exam similar to that. I explained what happened to a supervisor at the C&P clinic as I left the building. The next week, I was asked to come back in for a repeat exam, with the same doc. I was actually examined, my c-file was present with the examiner, and I got SC for the condition. It was part of a BVA remand and instructions explicitly stated that the C-file must be present during the exam. I guess I got lucky for having my records with me. I'm not sure if a supervisor would help with this type of issue today.