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Please, welcome new VET2VET podcast episode: https://youtu.be/waV5t0HPtbM Today we are joined by Thomas Wendel, DAV National area supervisor for West Cost Region. Thomas E. Wendel served in the U. S. Marine Corps from 1983 until 1997. Since 1999, Tom has worked assisting veterans in processing various entitlement claims on the local, state and federal levels; first in Clare County as a county service officer and then when he came to work for the Disabled American Veterans in 2000. In 2008 he was promoted to the position of supervisor of the DAV Service Office in Detroit and later he was promoted to the position of supervisor of the DAV National area for West Cost Region. DAV is America’s largest, most effective veterans service organizations dedicated to the needs of those injured, ill or wounded in service. We have more than 1,300 Chapters in communities nationwide to help make sure veterans from all generations and their families get the benefits and support they deserve. Today, nearly 1.3 million veterans belong to DAV, and we encourage you to add your voice to the cause. Our programs and free services help all veterans get the health, disability and financial benefits they earned. Take advantage of our benefits claims assistance, medical transportation and employment resources. Your local DAV Chapter is a great way to connect with fellow veterans in your area. ★ JOIN US IN OUR COMMITMENT TO YOU AND OUR FELLOW VETERANS ★ ▶ facebook.com/VETOVET2 ▶ itunes.apple.com/us/podcast/vet2vet/id1077206523?mt=2 ▶ twitter.com/VETOVET2 ▶ youtube.com/c/VETOVET2 ▶ plus.google.com/u/0/+VETOVET2 ▶ goo.gl/app/playmusic?ibi=com.google.PlayMusic&isi=691797987&ius=googleplaymusic&link=https://play.google.com/music/m/Iiqawbuzg7eviiyqm6xz7kju62m?t%3DVET2VET ▶ feeds.soundcloud.com/users/soundcloud:users:198832065/sounds.rss ▶ soundcloud.com/vet2vet ▶ stitcher.com/s?fid=80842&refid=stpr ★ LIMITED LIABILITY CLAUSE ★ THE INFORMATION AVAILABLE THROUGH THE VET2VET MAY INCLUDE INACCURACIES OR ERRORS. CHANGES ARE PERIODICALLY ADDED TO THE INFORMATION HEREIN. VET2VET MAY MAKE IMPROVEMENTS AND/OR CHANGES OF THE CONTENT AT ANY TIME. ADVICE RECEIVED VIA VET2VET SHOULD NOT BE RELIED UPON FOR PERSONAL, MEDICAL, LEGAL OR FINANCIAL DECISIONS AND YOU SHOULD CONSULT AN APPROPRIATE PROFESSIONAL FOR SPECIFIC ADVICE TAILORED TO YOUR SITUATION. IF YOU ARE DISSATISFIED WITH ANY PORTION OF VET2VET, YOUR SOLE AND EXCLUSIVE REMEDY IS TO DISCONTINUE CONSULTING VET2VET.

C&P Exam PTSD:MST Eating Disorder.pdf ^^^^^^Well the attached report indicates to me a 10% PTSD rating. I am currently 30% and I do not understand how this happened but I might be in for a reduction. I thought the exam went well. I had a PTSD and Eating Disorder C&P. Regarding the occupational/social impairment she checked the one that resembles 10% and for "b" she marks YES and goes on to say my trauma impacts my occupational/social impairment. Look at the symptoms she notes: Anxiety; Panic Attacks more than once a week; Chronic sleep impairment; difficulty in establishing and maintaining effective work and social relationships She even stated in the exam that I was BDD (Body Dysmorphic Disorder) but her reports indicates while I have BDD characteristics I don't warrant the BDD rating. She states for the VA established diagnosis of SPECIFIED TRAUMA AND STRESSOR RELATED DISORDER, there is NO CHANGE in the diagnosis. At this time the claimant's condition is active. Does this Exam mean I am going to be reduced or would I fall under the below??? 3.344 Stabilization of disability evaluations. (a) Examination reports indicating improvement. Rating agencies will handle cases affected by change of medical findings or diagnosis, so as to produce the greatest degree of stability of disability evaluations consistent with the laws and Department of Veterans Affairs regulations governing disability compensation and pension. It is essential that the entire record of examinations and the medical-industrial history be reviewed to ascertain whether the recent examination is full and complete, including all special examinations indicated as a result of general examination and the entire case history. This applies to treatment of intercurrent diseases and exacerbations, including hospital reports, bedside examinations, examinations by designated physicians, and examinations in the absence of, or without taking full advantage of, laboratory facilities and the cooperation of specialists in related lines. Examinations less full and complete than those on which payments were authorized or continued will not be used as a basis of reduction. Ratings on account of diseases subject to temporary or episodic improvement, e.g., manic depressive or other psychotic reaction, epilepsy, psychoneurotic reaction, arteriosclerotic heart disease, bronchial asthma, gastric or duodenal ulcer, many skin diseases, etc., will not be reduced on any one examination, except in those instances where all the evidence of record clearly warrants the conclusion that sustained improvement has been demonstrated. Ratings on account of diseases which become comparatively symptom free (findings absent) after prolonged rest, e.g. residuals of phlebitis, arteriosclerotic heart disease, etc., will not be reduced on examinations reflecting the results of bed rest. Moreover, though material improvement in the physical or mental condition is clearly reflected the rating agency will consider whether the evidence makes it reasonably certain that the improvement will be maintained under the ordinary conditions of life. When syphilis of the central nervous system or alcoholic deterioration is diagnosed following a long prior history of psychosis, psychoneurosis, epilepsy, or the like, it is rarely possible to exclude persistence, in masked form, of the preceding innocently acquired manifestations. Rating boards encountering a change of diagnosis will exercise caution in the determination as to whether a change in diagnosis represents no more than a progression of an earlier diagnosis, an error in prior diagnosis or possibly a disease entity independent of the service-connected disability. When the new diagnosis reflects mental deficiency or personality disorder only, the possibility of only temporary remission of a super-imposed psychiatric disease will be borne in mind. (b) Doubtful cases. If doubt remains, after according due consideration to all the evidence developed by the several items discussed in paragraph (a) of this section, the rating agency will continue the rating in effect, citing the former diagnosis with the new diagnosis in parentheses, and following the appropriate code there will be added the reference “Rating continued pending reexamination ___ months from this date, §3.344.” The rating agency will determine on the basis of the facts in each individual case whether 18, 24 or 30 months will be allowed to elapse before the reexamination will be made. (c) Disabilities which are likely to improve. The provisions of paragraphs (a) and (b) of this section apply to ratings which have continued for long periods at the same level (5 years or more). They do not apply to disabilities which have not become stabilized and are likely to improve. Reexaminations disclosing improvement, physical or mental, in these disabilities will warrant reduction in rating.

Well I've read up on as much as I can possibly read up on regarding filing a VA claim. Been to all the sites, watched numerous online videos, got my IME letter from my oncologist, drafted out my VA Form 21-526EZ, and am still proof reading my final draft cover letter. I'm hesitant to start the process and hoping that I have everything that will be required to jump into this challenge!

I'm new to this site, and somewhat novice with claims as I've ignored them since my discharge in 2012, but I have some questions that I've yet to find answers for that hopefully someone can help me with: In a nutshell, my story is I did my four years, two hellish combat tours to Afghan, got out in 2012, immediately filed my claims for a few disabilities like back and shoulder issues and got a 40% rating total. I've since not looked back as none of that concerns me. My issue now is that I was sent to a mandatory PTSD screening during one of my visits that year, and the examiner kind of went about the thing blase, and although I did tell her most of my traumatic experiences, she gave me 0% for "Combat PTSD not related to military service" as it says in their justification, whatever that means. I don't think they even attempted to listen to me as my experiences were extraordinarily traumatic and have been a detriment to my mental health and quality of life since. And yet I now have an effective date of a PTSD claim from day of discharge 6 years ago for 0%, says it right on eBenefits. I think you know where I'm going with this... After 6 years of dealing with a slew of issues related to PTSD, I decided this week to start looking into trying to re open the case. My questions for you are.... Would I be entitled to any back pay if I could prove that I've suffered from PTSD since then, and that they made their original decision in error? And if so, how could I go about receiving the exact paper work / medical records from that one specific screening I had in 2012? I've looked everywhere and I don't really know how to navigate either of these situations... Thanks a lot!

I am the sole caretaker for my spouse which makes it extremely difficult to leave and go to a VA facility to file my claim. When I registered for Ebenefits it says I have to have a Premium Account but I cannot just leave for the in person verification. It is imperative that I get benefits because of recent health status and also the full time care my wife will need if/when I need a treatment plan. Can somebody direct me on how to get VA Form 21-526 filled out and also to obtain my C File? I have a portion of my medical record frm my time in service in the Army from 1972-1976. Any help or guidance is greatly appreciated, I live in a fairly remote area without a local VSO or Rep. Regards

Hi. Should I (does anyone??) write a timeline about my claim? Like a one page timeline or outline or my history. Example: I just sent in my Social Security Disablilty paperwork for my claim because my SSD was approved due to my damage to my lower spine(posted a few days ago) the judge approved it. I was in Voc rehab 9/2008-4/2009 withdrew from college due to physical/mental meltdown then again went back 9/2010-5-2011 and again had to withdraw because I physically and mentally crashed( I was approved to the National Honor Society). I was approved for SSD 11/23/2009 and I figured if I wrote it out on a timeline it would help the to show the VA exactly the time line since I'm thinking they are not good at that. Advice please and thank you in advance. ((A quick FYI during this time I have been consistently getting spinal injections, spine fusion surgery, quad tear surgery, take pain meds(which make it hard to impossible to think theoretically) and doing physical therapy and PTSD group n one on one at VA PTSD clinic for 3 years now which helps with my daily anxiety.)) Thanks again.

My is I filed for Increase on my Service Connected Disabilities. Service Connected Disabilities: Osteoarthritis Left Knee: 10% Osteoarthritis Right Knee: 10% Depressive Disorder: 70% Claim: Increase Osteoarthritis Left Knee: Reason for Increase 1) Total Left Knee Replacement: A) Temporary Total Disability B) Umemployability Secondary (New): A) Hip Condition B) Back Condition Increase Osteoarthritis Right Knee: Reason for increase Secondary (New): A) Hip Condition B) Back Condition C) Ankle My Question is will the VA consider this as Duplicate Claims? Can the VA overrule and consider that the Secondary conditions are Bilateral and I can not make a Duplicate entry. I consider since both Knee's are rated at 10% because one is worser than the other. My Left is the one that has been replaced and will be ( or should be rated differently ) rated under replacement and not under plain Osteoarthritis. As a Secondary Condition I added Hip and Back Ankle as the Service Connected Disability has affected my healing. I asked for Increase or my Right Knee as it is not for ( Flexion - Extension - Pain ) all the 3 separate ratings possible under osteoarthritis. I then listed as Secondary Conditions ( Hip - Back - Ankle ) because although it would be considered a duplicate they are rated seperately. Can I make them separate conditions as my left side affects the left side of my hip and back from the Left Knee. And then the right side is differently because it affects the right ankle and hip and back differently on that side. Can they be Rated Separately? Or can the VA Deny them as Duplicates?

To list the many many Tags would have been ludicrous. My case is relatively new. I joined here last year, this place has always been great to calm burned out nerves. I sometimes don't make sense to myself let alone anyone else. But when I got out, I went tearing away from anything and everything that even REMOTELY resembled authority. People being able to control my life terrified me to the point where it has literally affected every single part of my life. I came here seeking help and I got it. So, if my story can help anyone else, and my opinions on what you can do to help your own Battle, because that's what this REALLY is, then I will feel like I have done a small and meager effort to pay it forward. My C-File isn't stuffed to the gills with medical records because I didn't serve long enough to qualify for VA Medical. My Claims were handled fairly fast compared to the average. My Story is simple, I got kicked out of the US Army Infantry, after Basic, but I did not finish my A.I.T. We were OSUT. How and why is my business, and I have completely accepted that now. I wasn't even aware I had "issues" until about 9 years after I got out of there. And, a further 6 years before I swallowed my pride and went and finally asked for the help, that I had been convinced by every Veteran I knew, that I now have. I filed my initial claim for PTSD with Anger and Depression. 5 months later they denied me without a C&P, oh gosh gee wilikers was I disappointed. But, once again, fellow Veterans pointed me the way. I went to my Second VSO, and they filled for Depression, and I was scheduled for a VA C&P Exam. Why do I emphasize the VA part, well, I had learned from reading here at Hadit that C&P exams don't show up on your VA website thingy. Which, I thought to myself, that IS kind of important, you know, so no one can "lose" your record of that particular exam. I must admit that my best decisions I have made after getting my actual 50% Service Connected decision letter last year was to continuously educate myself. Not just about me, but the VA itself. IT IS IMPORTANT THAT YOU BRING YOUR COPYS OF YOUR PERTINENT INFORMATION WITH YOU. Sure that really friendly guy on the phone making your appointment is probably say it's not necessary to bring any documents, the Examiner will have ALL your evidence. Bullshit, don't ever leave your case DEPENDENT on ANYONE else' actions! Seriously, I took that advice from someone here, and it saved my ass. A actual Lt. Col. in the US Army Medical Hospital Diagnosed me with exactly what i was filing for. Match the Words, don't try to guess, don't try to infer. Take all your important verifying information with you. Don't leave out anything that you feel may hurt your case, if you think the VA is going to not use any excuse to take away what they give you, you are DEAD wrong. They will dig for it and hunt it down. Be honest, give them everything. But remember, you are literally not DEFENDING yourself to these Raters, you are pressing your case base on verified fact. They will work harder to rip your benefits away, than they are supposed to help you get them.Tell them something is wrong if you don't know exactly, and make them give you an examination, it is your right as a Veteran. I see too many Vets who are always asking others for help, guess what, it's up to US. DO YOUR HOMEWORK Seriously, you need to know more about your Disability's then the people who wrote the books and TREAT you for it. No one knows your Disability's like you. Because they are literally YOURS, not as a statistic or a Roster Number. Because remember, these are not minor discomforts or passing ailments. These damages are severe enough to make us DISABLED. You are LEGALLY entitled to the compensation for the damages done to you, maybe that's why the VA Denies us so consistently. No matter how many changes in Technology or public opinion, they have NEVER done it at a pace that allows most of us to barely maintain our composure and dignity. As far as the Law goes, if you have evidence, you're solid, it is not the RATER who is processing your claim wrong, it is YOU. Every "T" must be crossed, every "i" must be dotted. You have to make your case so solid,that it would literally be a breaking of the Law not to Service Connect you, or a fair Scheduler Rating, or TDIU. You have to SLAM THAT Claim DOWN ON THAT RO's desk, and CHALLENGE him to find flaw in every single interpretation of the Laws, Rules, Regulations....... Become your own greatest weapon, by realizing that you personally can't do that, you have to show it through your work, every page has to be meticulous, don't give them any reason to take the scalpel to your pages. I have a theory, based on how fast I was Denied the first Claim, how fast I was sent for a C&P for my second and winning Claim, and the fact that I was approved the DAY after my C&P exam. I personally feel, as if the moment a Rater can find a reason, and Literally the first reason, he denies and kicks out. Because I was denied without even a C&P exam. Then, when my second claim got sent up, they took one look at it, and knew they were caught out, so as soon as they got my results, they gave me 50% and expected me to be grateful for it. Never stop, always press on, continually advance, and when you can't advance, you bear down, shield up, and dig in. You are now in the Trenches of the VA, and we are literally all here because we are STILL Brothers and Sisters in Arms, against our own people. My OPINION of VSO's and LAWYERS A VSO, no matter where he works, is not gonna fight for you, oh they will file paperwork.....if you tell them what to file, you see, they just mostly don't have the balls for you, because they have balls for EVERYONE. A Lawyer, on the other hand, is motivated by Passion, and Profit. Think about it, if you were to Arm yourself with a Hypothetical Spear-like weapon, would you not want the one with the longest reach, sharpest point, and stopping power? A Lawyer, will fight, because he will look at your Claim, in whole, at ALL the FACTS, and take your case ONLY IF HE BELIEVES THE LAW IS ON YOUR SIDE AND HE CAN WIN IT! That alone, is a boost of confidence that will sustain your Hope, while unfortunately also being a two-edged sword. If he doesn't take your case, then do MORE HOMEWORK. If you can convince a VA registered Lawyer to take your case, you're fairly solid. ONCE AGAIN, MY OWN PERSONAL OPINION. Always Dig Deeper than the Surface Picture that the VA forces on you,If the Law is on your side, stand firm, and advance,Remember that you are right, and you need not defend against their No, but insist on your Yes. Good luck y'all

I have four appeals at the BVA level that were certified by my RO and none of the appeals have docket numbers yet. I understand about waiver of initial consideration for additional evidence. My questions are these: 1. How do I know what evidence the BVA currently has? Could be that lots of evidence I have is not at the BVA level and want to ensure they have EVERYTHING. 2. Will a waiver of initial consideration automatically apply to all evidence, past, present, and future? That is, does a waiver of initial consideration, prevent any of my appeals from being sent back to the RO, assuming the BVA has all they evidence for my claims/appeals. I'm done dealing with the RO and want to avoid any remands as my claim challenges have been ongoing for 29 years now! Thank you very much in advance... James

Improper handling of 1999 VA Compensation Claim I will do my best to present this in a short and respectful manner. I will do my best to truthfully represent all facts and evidence as it was presented in 1999 VA Claim. It is therefore I am seeking help in identifying any missing documents, missing evidence, non compliance of VA Regulations, etc... I will post the photo copies of the record on my C-file which I received in 2015. I will present the Claim as it was filed through the local VSO in Farmerville, Louisiana County/Parish: Union Subject: VA Compensation Claim for Albert Dodd Dated: 15 June, 1999 Copy of Claim Submission: ** ( All files are in PDF format and saved to my Google Drive ) ** ( View Only ) ** https://drive.google.com/open?id=1d9HHYJHe3fgLuItJ6INugPqWLAZDg1am VA Claim submitted on: 15 June 1999 VA Claim Received on: 18 June 1999 ( Dept of Veterans Affairs New Orleans, LA ) ATTACHMENTS: VA Form 21-526 Pg. 7 https://drive.google.com/open?id=1bHb95IPMv6DGTVftK2qLeoYo-rv1miAv VA Form 21-526 Pg. 8 https://drive.google.com/open?id=1cWw-3sJygTIhnCgrRZFl4B7XSXC0nnE- VA Form 21-526 Pg. 9 https://drive.google.com/open?id=1P8tgJ0rcUz8MJoInHEMLuv06raHckdZK VA Form 21-526 Pg. 10 https://drive.google.com/open?id=15P1YoMfREici-kHFHgbz1TttyuzCMLim Authorization and Consent Included: VA Form 21-4142 Pg. 1 https://drive.google.com/open?id=1YXTaDasjAdrfXN8abclQX9a_8v7kM5G4 VA Form 21-4142 Pg.2 https://drive.google.com/open?id=1Ux9UvrEplp2tTkKc6xrZsMCkUSi2e0z4 ** ( Notes of Interest ) ** Supporting Evidence Attachments: 1) Certified copy of DD 214 2) Copy of Discharge Account Summary ( Severance Pay ) ** ( My Certified True Copy from SMR ) ** 3) Copy of Findings of the Physical Evaluation Board ** ( My Certified True Copy from SMR ) ** 4) Copy of SMR's to support S/C Claim ** Physical Evaluation Board Decision ** Pg. 1 https://drive.google.com/file/d/1Ius0W2ZDp-Ls1_fiQxoqfxRWBSor_viU/view Pg. 2 https://drive.google.com/file/d/1fYqy9fh6kjD0-cXAfK_T6KGoyszVeJNP/view Pg. 3 https://drive.google.com/file/d/1DsAwqqLecFc6C_HsZghIaZ7D33E37Qf6/view Pg. 4 https://drive.google.com/file/d/1UJOIGk1DJuNKNR-RRgfXIswVjWLex_jF/view Pg. 5 https://drive.google.com/file/d/1h6GgoGlDbJ9sEOT7V1CXorWXEKB5rxG4/view All Evidence and Supporting documents where sent in along with the Authorization and Consent ( VA Form 21-4142 ) for Release of Medical Records on June 15, 1999 **** Dept of Veterans Affairs New Orleans, LA **** Intake of Evidence for VA Claim for Compensation for Albert Dodd Dated: 18 June 1999 **** Timeline for Review of Evidence and Decision **** June 18, 1999 VA Claim Received June 25, 1999 VA Claim Reviewed https://drive.google.com/open?id=1LaYkJdHDmZ9ofzA8CJD7ZTCNwOqzVX9N July 08, 1999 Rating Decision ( R.M. LaCOMBRE, Rating Specialist ) Rating Decision Pg. 1 https://drive.google.com/file/d/16cS_DJ6QCut61LVj-jbzolQghHh4StDF/view Rating Decision Pg. 2 https://drive.google.com/file/d/1MfG-kcASP_2lruDY22eSMGCgKbI6x-_b/view Rating Decision Pg. 3 https://drive.google.com/file/d/1pUJXAHT_Zguk0WR2R4xTEi8c0EAXLgHs/view July 10, 1999 Compensation and Pension Award **( VA Form 21-8947 ) ** Signed into record https://drive.google.com/file/d/1JP-MXHlCsjsGlL9M9qP09XSK_OJJC14P/view July 12, 1999 Notice of Decision mailed out **( Cover Sheet ) ** https://drive.google.com/file/d/1OG7fNoJWMzF79NQ1AI04Z-wz5QrspY7g/view **** Questions for CUE **** 1) Duty to assist **( Did not attempt to help get copies of Hospital stay )** 2) Duty to assist **( Failure to assist by not scheduling a medical exam for current medical condition(s) )** 3) No Development Letter **( Failure to Notify Veteran of any further evidence needed to substantiate Claim )** I Albert Dodd do swear that all information is correct and included. If you or someone you know has information that would help me in getting the VA to correct this wrongful Decision please post your comments.

good afternoon all, i am a new member on this, former US army reservist, and currently employed full time. i separated in 2009 but filed my claim in Aug 2015 (i wasnt aware as a reservist of only 6 yrs total enlistment that i could actually apply for anything). my decision finally moved in the Preparation for Decision phase two days ago, 6/21/2016. i have two questions: 1 - how quickly does it go from here?...(im guessing the answer is that there is no answer. everyone's claim is handled differently but has anyone experienced the claim to wrap up rather quickly from here?) 2 - i am trying to determine what sort of rating i may get for my mental health based off my C&P results. anyone with experience please take a look (below) and offer their opinion? thank you kindly for any assistance and response: 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: F 43.10 2. Current Diagnoses -------------------- a. Mental Disorder Diagnosis #1: PTSD ICD code: F 43.10 Mental Disorder Diagnosis #2: Unspecified Depressive Disorder ICD code: F32.9 -------------------------------------------------------- 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] Occupational and social impairment with occasional decrease in work efficiency and intermittent periods of inability to perform occupational tasks, although generally functioning satisfactorily, with normal routine behavior, self-care and conversation ****i know by definition this summary may fall within the 30% rating, but please continue reading below****** a. Medical record review: ------------------------- Was the Veteran's VA e-folder (VBMS or Virtual VA) reviewed? [X] Yes [ ] No Was the Veteran's VA claims file (hard copy paper C-file) reviewed? [ ] Yes [X] No If yes, list any records that were reviewed but were not included in the Veteran's VA claims file: If no, check all records reviewed: [ ] Military service treatment records [ ] Military service personnel records [ ] Military enlistment examination [ ] Military separation examination [X] Military post-deployment questionnaire [X] Department of Defense Form 214 Separation Documents [X] Veterans Health Administration medical records (VA treatment records) [ ] Civilian medical records [ ] Interviews with collateral witnesses (family and others who have known the Veteran before and after military service) [ ] No records were reviewed [ ] Other: 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: [censored] 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 [censored] This stressor meets Criterion A; this stressor is related to the Veteran's fear of hostile military or terrorist activity; this stessor is not related to personal assualt. 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 Criteria 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 Criteria 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 violation, in one or more of the following ways: [X] Directly experiencing the traumatic event(s) 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, involuntary, and intrusive distressing memories 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 external reminders (people, places, conversations, activities, objects, situations) that arouse 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, distorted cognitions about the cause or consequences of the traumatic event(s) that lead to the individual to blame himself/herself or others. [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] Problems with concentration. [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] Other, please indicate stressor number (i.e., Stressor #4, #5, etc.) as indicated above: Stressor #4 5. Symptoms ----------- For VA rating purposes, check all symptoms that actively apply to the Veteran's diagnoses: [X] Depressed mood [this is a 30% symptom] [X] Anxiety [30% symptom] [X] Suspiciousness [30% symptom] [X] Panic attacks more than once a week [this is a 50% symptom] [X] Chronic sleep impairment [30% symptom] [X] Flattened affect [50% symptom] [X] Disturbances of motivation and mood [50% symptom] ****the symptoms listed above fall under both 30% and 50% criteria, so i am uncertain whether they will consider both or make the decision based off the Summary at the begining of the report, which technically defines the 30% rating****** 9. Remarks, (including any testing results) if any -------------------------------------------------- Based on this examination and a review of the records, it is determined that the Veteran meets DSM-5 criteria for PTSD. It is further determined that this diagnosis is at least as likely as not (50/50 probability) a result of the identified in service stressors. The Veteran is also found to meet criteria for Unspecified Depressive Disorder. This diagnosis is determined to be at least as likely as not (50/50 probability) proximately due to or a result of the PTSD. The Veteran gives a credible account of stressors deemed consistent with his MOS, and with service in the identified combat theater. While there are no related service treatment records, post-deployment questionnaires suggest that Veteran was experiencing subjective distress at the time of his redeployment. The claimed anxiety and sleep disturbance are deemed to be symptoms of both of the current diagnoses. this ends my report. thank you again for anyone's response and assistance. [The Silent Warrior of the Army Team]

so my claim was submitted on 12/12/2016. I submitted for bipolar/depression (reopen) and tinnitus (new). I sent it in as an FDC with all my evidence. I checked ebenefits on 12/21/2016 and the status is already showing preparation for decision. Is this normal? I haven't even gone to a c&p exam, I haven't recieved any correspondences or anything. For the bipolar depression it is a reopen because when i first filed in 2011, I missed my appointment. After I missed my appointment, the VA sent me papers (back in 2011) saying that they see that i was treated for depression during active duty. but since i failed to show up to the appointment, it was denied. So now i've sent a ton of new evidence that supports my claim and they've reopened the case. But does the speed with which this is progressing means that i am being denied? As noted below, ebennies is showing that the va rep has already made a decision, in less than two weeks. With no exams or anything... What does this mean... Is this normal? have i been denied? Is there a phone number i can call?? im freaking out. Here's what ebenefits show: Estimated Completion: 01/24/2017 - 03/04/2017 STATUS: Preparation For Decision The Veterans Service Representative has recommended a decision, and is preparing required documents detailing that decision. If more evidence is required, the claim will be sent back in the process for more information or evidence

I have asked a lot of questions and i continue to ask alot of questions to learn even more. I think this may be my final question before i file. So i am currently service connected at 80% 60% asthma 30% allergic rhinitus 10% carpal tunnel 10% cystic acne (due to jet fumes) Now here's my question. Back in 2009 i began seeing a shrink for depression. ive been on pills and have gone to a counselor very often ever since. It is believed that my depression came from the 3 plane crashes that i witnessed. And another 1 that i didnt witness, but i was apart of the HR (human remains) team that shipped the 6 recovered bodies home. It is also believed that my depression has come as a result of the severe asthma and allergy pains. Recent my therapist marked me down as bipolar I, fyi. My question is, do you think i would have a better chance claiming bipolar/depression as secondary to the asthma and allergies. Or should i just say that ive been depressed from the plane crashes and hr missions. Or should i just claim depression as its own issue. please help. Thanks.

I have a question. As it stands I am currently at 80% but things have gotten so much worse for me physically. Well lets just say i just left the mental health clinic again after a two week stay. So i am considering filing to have some things service connected and recieve the other 80% i need to be at 100% Now it is my understanding that if i provide all of my medical records and nexus letters and other necessary items with my claim, that this can expedite the process. Is this true? Or is it easier/better to just let the va locate my records. In the past that normally took a year (to locate the records, schedule and attend my C&P, and receive my results). So i really wonder is it going to at help speed up the process if i were to get my records and then send all of that in with my claim?? somebody said it can take months for the nprc to mail out records, which would pretty much put me in the same situation as letting the va locate the records on their own.

Greetings all, This is my first post after looking for similar situations. My C&P exam for spine issues was in June and it seemed favorable until an addendum was made this month which turned everything around. They denied my claim for aggravated spine issues and had inaccurate information stating my condition didn't progress until after service. Is the best way to go about this by filing an appeal or by making a new claim for low back pain?

Please delete

Hello, This is my way of introducimg myself to the Hadit community as a whole. I only surf forums and give opinions and such to things that relate to me personally and my Battle with the VA I wanted to get not only all of these tags talked about, but i would hope to be able to at least get all of those abbrvs broken down for the people that come to this site in need I have noticed a lot of us old hats talk to each other in a comfortable, approachable, yet sometimes maybe even un-understandable to those who aren't in our War with the Rap-i um, mean Rating Officers Some of the people stopping by here for well deserved and needed help may not even be Vets, but their Spouses, their guardians, and most Unfittingly too often their Widows I hope to try to build a little list, where if someone came here, they would have, oh, lets say a nice rusty ass old anchor to grip on to, you know, to help them ride out this Hellacious Hurricane of a system we face Add any word, phrase, Article or Chaptet number of any Law, Rule, Regulation that you would like to help pass on, well, not only the cold logical definition, but tye way it helped you in YOUR Battle. i want this thread to be open and honest, but please, don't get lost and sidetracked trying to impress the community, if a discussion blooms from seeds planted here, take your conversation to the Mail system, and coax them to sproutlings on your own dime, and come back with your Harvest of Ideas. Only we have each other, as i have stood on my own for this last 2ish years, i have wanted something more Here, there be monsters, hide no truths, hedge no bets, the deaper we are able to cut on here, the finer and more powerful Claims we can make. Always remember, we should be advancing, and when i steped into Hadit, i started to feel something different on this Battlefield, ever so softly, in the muck, my arm tired from holding back the Tide of VA bullshit... I felt a small click on my shield, it was YOU! You and I, we began to share the load, gave us both second wind. And slowly, i realized what T-Bird has done, he has started a Cadence! my Shield-Brothers and ShieldSisters. Every one of you, whose words i read, eased my burden. The VA can only xxxx us as individuals. Remember, nearly a hundred years ago, when people REALLY figured out how democracy can work for the minority within the majority, Prohibition was passed, and that is because of Soldiers of Ideals. Our issue is, the VA makes us literally be the David to their Goliath. They demand that we beg for our scraps. Very few Vererans are in the position to demand their Just Compensation because first off, we are broken. Assailed by disabilitys they expect us to fight. Alone! They punish us horribly with Time, and indifference......they teach us to Hate the individuals in their system, Whistleblowers ignored except when it boosts Ratings yet never allowing us Veterans ourselves the ability or TOOLS to help OURSELVES. i dont want someone coddling me, i can repair my own engine given time and proper tools. No way in Hell am i gonna try to pull impacted lugnuts off with my teeth now am I? "that some small amount of moneys may be paid to the maimed, the crippled, his widow, his children...." -Abraham Lincoln (Maybe not exact words, but its from my xxxxxx up memory so go google for Knowledge)

Hello, This is my way of introducimg myself to the Hadit community as a whole. I only surf forums and give opinions and such to things that relate to me personally and my Battle with the VA I wanted to get not only all of these tags talked about, but i would hope to be able to at least get all of those abbrvs broken down for the people that come to this site in need I have noticed a lot of us old hats talk to each other in a comfortable, approachable, yet sometimes maybe even un-understandable to those who aren't in our War with the Rap-i um, mean Rating Officers Some of the people stopping by here for well deserved and needed help may not even be Vets, but their Spouses, their guardians, and most Unfittingly too often their Widows I hope to try to build a little Pist, wher if someone came here, they would have, oh, lets say a nice rusty ass old anchor to grip on to, you know, to help them ride out this Hellacious Hurricane of a system we face Add any word, phrase, Article or Chaptet number of any Law, Rule, Regulation that you would like to help pass on, well, not only the cold logical definition, but tye way it helped you in YOUR Battle. i want this thread to be open and honest, but please, don't get lost and sidetracked trying to impress the community, if a discussion blooms from seeds planted here, take your conversation to the Mail system, and coax them to sproutlings on your own dime, and come back with your Harvest of Ideas. Only we have each other, as i have stood on my own for this last 2ish years, i have wanted something more Here, there be monsters, hide no truths, hedge no bets, the deaper we are able to cut on here, the finer and more powerful Claims we can make. Always remember, we should be advancing, and when i steped into Hadit, i started to feel something different on this Battlefield, ever so softly, in the muck, my arm tired from holding back the Tide of VA bullshit... I felt a small click on my shield, it was YOU! You and I, we began to share the load, gave us both second wind. And slowly, i realized what T-Bird has done, he has started a Cadence! my Shield-Brothers and ShieldSisters. Every one of you, whose words i read, eased my burden. The VA can only xxxx us as individuals. Remember, nearly a hundred years ago, when people REALLY figured out how democracy can work for the minority within the majority, Prohibition was passed, and that is because of Soldiers of Ideals. Our issue is, the VA makes us literally be the David to their Goliath. They demand that we beg for our scraps. Very few Vererans are in the position to demand their Just Compensation because first off, we are broken. Assailed by disabilitys they expect us to fight. Alone! They punish us horribly with Time, and indifference......they teach us to Hate the individuals in their system, Whistleblowers ignored except when it boosts Ratings yet never allowing us Veterans ourselves the ability or TOOLS to help OURSELVES. i dont want someone coddling me, i can repair my own engine given time and proper tools. No way in Hell am i gonna try to pull impacted lugnuts off with my teeth now am I? "that some small amount of moneys may be paid to the maimed, the crippled, his widow, his children...." -Abraham Lincoln (Maybe not exact words, but its from my xxxxxx up memory so go google for Knowledge)

Please, welcome new VET2VET podcast episode: https://youtu.be/9paX1-FyCaI Today we’re talking about SERVICE CONNECTION. When we talk about service-connecting a medical condition, disease, injury or illness to military service, we are talking about proving the relationship between the two. 1) Direct Service Connection 2) Service Connection by Aggravation 3) Presumptive Service Connection 4) Secondary Service Connection 5) Service Connection due to Injury Caused by Treatment in the VA Healthcare System 6) Special Service Connection Rules for Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder ★ JOIN US IN OUR COMMITMENT TO YOU AND OUR FELLOW VETERANS ★ ▶ facebook.com/VETOVET2 ▶ itunes.apple.com/us/podcast/vet2vet/id1077206523?mt=2 ▶ twitter.com/VETOVET2 ▶ youtube.com/c/VETOVET2 ▶ plus.google.com/u/0/+VETOVET2 ▶ goo.gl/app/playmusic?ibi=com.google.PlayMusic&isi=691797987&ius=googleplaymusic&link=https://play.google.com/music/m/Iiqawbuzg7eviiyqm6xz7kju62m?t%3DVET2VET ▶ feeds.soundcloud.com/users/soundcloud:users:198832065/sounds.rss ▶ soundcloud.com/vet2vet ▶ stitcher.com/s?fid=80842&refid=stpr ★ LIMITED LIABILITY CLAUSE ★ THE INFORMATION AVAILABLE THROUGH THE VET2VET MAY INCLUDE INACCURACIES OR ERRORS. CHANGES ARE PERIODICALLY ADDED TO THE INFORMATION HEREIN. VET2VET MAY MAKE IMPROVEMENTS AND/OR CHANGES OF THE CONTENT AT ANY TIME. ADVICE RECEIVED VIA VET2VET SHOULD NOT BE RELIED UPON FOR PERSONAL, MEDICAL, LEGAL OR FINANCIAL DECISIONS AND YOU SHOULD CONSULT AN APPROPRIATE PROFESSIONAL FOR SPECIFIC ADVICE TAILORED TO YOUR SITUATION. IF YOU ARE DISSATISFIED WITH ANY PORTION OF VET2VET, YOUR SOLE AND EXCLUSIVE REMEDY IS TO DISCONTINUE CONSULTING VET2VET.

So the VA completed my claim and increased my compensation. There is one problem, there are many conditions that disappeared from the original claim that are all over my service records. Also received retro, but not nearly what I have calculated. Any ideas? Increased from 20% --> 50%. Many things were rated as non-service connected even though they are clearly indicated in my records and the initial injuries happened on Active Duty. I'm just trying to wrap my head around this all.

Please, welcome new VET2VET podcast episode: https://youtu.be/sTH3p-WwXn0 The way VA defines The word "permanent" slightly differently. For that matter, the word total doesn't mean total when discussing a disability. These are just terms to VA. There really isn't a protected rating. Any rating can be modified by VA at any time, depending on the circumstances. How do you know if your benefit is P & T? What is IU? What is substantially gainful employment? Are there any other eligibility requirements? How is the way VA decides total disability different from other agencies? TDIU awards may be permanent or they may be temporary. If I get a 100% rating, should I continue fighting the VA for benefits? SMC compensation Can you think of any other scenarios were a Veteran might want to keep filing to VA after they reach a 100% rating? ★ JOIN US IN OUR COMMITMENT TO YOU AND OUR FELLOW VETERANS ★ ▶ facebook.com/veterantoveteran/ ▶ itunes.apple.com/us/podcast/vet2vet/id1077206523?mt=2 ▶ twitter.com/veterantovetera/lists/vet2vet ▶ youtube.com/channel/UCebXFpogeJ9r4EqRyxHriYQ ▶ plus.google.com/u/0/+VETOVET2 ▶ goo.gl/app/playmusic?ibi=com.google.PlayMusic&isi=691797987&ius=googleplaymusic&link=https://play.google.com/music/m/Iiqawbuzg7eviiyqm6xz7kju62m?t%3DVET2VET ▶ feeds.soundcloud.com/users/soundcloud:users:198832065/sounds.rss ▶ soundcloud.com/vet2vet ▶ stitcher.com/s?fid=80842&refid=stpr ★ LIMITED LIABILITY CLAUSE ★ THE INFORMATION AVAILABLE THROUGH THE VET2VET MAY INCLUDE INACCURACIES OR ERRORS. CHANGES ARE PERIODICALLY ADDED TO THE INFORMATION HEREIN. VET2VET MAY MAKE IMPROVEMENTS AND/OR CHANGES OF THE CONTENT AT ANY TIME. ADVICE RECEIVED VIA VET2VET SHOULD NOT BE RELIED UPON FOR PERSONAL, MEDICAL, LEGAL OR FINANCIAL DECISIONS AND YOU SHOULD CONSULT AN APPROPRIATE PROFESSIONAL FOR SPECIFIC ADVICE TAILORED TO YOUR SITUATION. IF YOU ARE DISSATISFIED WITH ANY PORTION OF VET2VET, YOUR SOLE AND EXCLUSIVE REMEDY IS TO DISCONTINUE CONSULTING VET2VET.

Well most know my DRO hearing was in February and now I am in the decision phase with a due date of 9/28/16. I sure hope they decide it before then!!! But at least I am making progress! I sure hope I get the decision soon!!!

So most know on here my situation. I filed an FDC back in January for several issues to include 100% temporary convalescence for right foot due to left ankle. Right foot is NOT S/C so since my left ankle caused the fracture I put in the FDC. After filing the FDC, my NOD finally processed and I had my DRO review hearing last month. I noticed after receiving my C-file my FDC was "RTR" ready to rate but I assumed that it was going to wait until AFTER my DRO hearing and all those issues were resolved. My NOD included all my feet issues. Ebennies showed Preparation for Decision back in February and so it sat. Well today I checked Ebennies regarding my FDC claim and I notice that the date has now changed to 4/4/16-4/9/16 from an out date of August 2016. I am wondering if this means they are working on both my FDC and my NOD? Wouldn't that be nice???? I know I know I know that Ebennies timeline is UNRELIABLE but I find it interesting it bumped up to next week. Wish me good luck please!!!!

So I received the DAV "official" letter last night in the mail ATTACHED. I am curious as to why the 100% temporary evaluation is June 3rd, 2015 to October 1, 2015???? Look at numbers 2 & 3. I also got SMC housebound for the same dates. What is puzzling me is I had my surgery to my right foot January 6th, 2016. I know my right foot is not yet S/C as it is under appeal but I was granted the 100% temporary evaluation for my left ankle b/c it caused my fracture to my right foot. Any idea why they went back to 2015???? The dates they awarded me the 100% temporary evaluation, does that mean I am getting 4 months at 100%? #7 and you will see the wording "not shown" for right foot. I am very happy they gave me the 100% temporary evaluation but puzzled about the dates. #5 - My left ankle stayed at 10% but they added additional contentions to it. Will I also get a re-evaluation for my left ankle you think? Will I get the back for the increase from 60% to 70% with my temporary 100% for the four months? I am still waiting for the BBE to come in the mail. DAV letter.pdf

Okay so I have an issue with my kidneys and not sure how to approach it. I recently had an X-ray then a CT scan and now I have an MRI schedule because I received a letter from my primary care doctor stating the following: "8mm exophytic lesion mid left kidney, density is higher than a cyst. This may be an hyperdense hemorrhagic or proteinaceious cyst versus enhancing mass, cannot determine on single phase CT. Recommend MRI of the kidneys with gadolinium full for the evaluation to exclude enhancing mass" I have had a lot of pain in my belly and wasn't sure if it is due to my IBS. I never thought it could be an issue with my Kidney. So I went looking through my SMR's and I came across where I was hospitalized in February 1993 for complete internal organ shut down. I wound up being treated for PID (Pelvic Inflammatory Disease) as well as Pyelonephritis (Kidney Infection). I had a temperature of over 105 for days and they actually thought I was dying. My mother had stated when she walked in to see me, I was naked on ice and wrapped in ice and they were trying to bring my fever down. I was discharged 5 days later. Now I am dealing with the issue I am facing with my upcoming MRI. My question is there any way to relate the issue from 93 to current if in fact I have an issue with my Kidney? I've suffered for years with pain in my belly and always attributed to IBS but now I am wondering if I was never really treated properly for the kidney issues. I didn't have medical insurance for over a decade after I got out so I was never really able to follow up. Thoughts about the CT scan report??? I am a bit worried