Change Of Diagnosis

[hp1030]

Can a VA doctor on a C&P evaluation change the diagnosis, of a previously rated skin condition? The same condition he underrated on a previous evaluation?

I've had a diagnosis of Mycosis Fungoides-Ecxematous Dermatitis rated at 50 % over 12 year, this Doctor deduced it to 10% on a previous C&P evaluation. Now he pretends to change the diagnosis to Alopecia Areata, I understand with the intent of not been able to go over 10% disabling, Is he allowed to do that? Is there any recourse to prevent this?How accurate are VA biopsy's since they are ordered to prove the Doctors case?

On previous biopsy's the results are the same as the possible(rule out) diagnosis, always!!!.Now he wants Alopecia Areata, and I am sure he will get it.

How can I fight this?

Thanks in Advance, And Happy Birthday to all the great US Army fellows.

[Chuck75]

As a general thing, any Dr can change a diagnosis. Further, a diagnosis change is usually looked at by the medical profession as a Dr's admission of error on the first one, and that the Dr is "honest" because he admitted the earlier error. Having said that-- I would get a Non VA well qualified (in speciality) Dr to have another biopsy done, and an opinion based upon that. Is there any record of treatment for the first condition that the Dr. might use to say that it "cured" the original problem?

Can a VA doctor on a C&P evaluation change the diagnosis, of a previously rated skin condition? The same condition he underrated on a previous evaluation?

I've had a diagnosis of Mycosis Fungoides-Ecxematous Dermatitis rated at 50 % over 12 year, this Doctor deduced it to 10% on a previous C&P evaluation. Now he pretends to change the diagnosis to Alopecia Areata, I understand with the intent of not been able to go over 10% disabling, Is he allowed to do that? Is there any recourse to prevent this?How accurate are VA biopsy's since they are ordered to prove the Doctors case?

On previous biopsy's the results are the same as the possible(rule out) diagnosis, always!!!.Now he wants Alopecia Areata, and I am sure he will get it.

How can I fight this?

Thanks in Advance, And Happy Birthday to all the great US Army fellows.

[hp1030]

No improvement at all, the condition continues to worsen.

[john999]

When a VA doctor changes a diagnsis he is supposed to give a good explanation. If he does not do this you could appeal the rating. The doctor needs to explan why the old dianosis is not correct and why the new diagnosis is better.

[carlie]

Here's one reg for you.

§ 4.13 Effect of change of diagnosis.

top The repercussion upon a current rating of service connection when change is made of a previously assigned diagnosis or etiology must be kept in mind. The aim should be the reconciliation and continuance of the diagnosis or etiology upon which service connection for the disability had been granted. The relevant principle enunciated in §4.125, entitled “Diagnosis of mental disorders,” should have careful attention in this connection. When any change in evaluation is to be made, the rating agency should assure itself that there has been an actual change in the conditions, for better or worse, and not merely a difference in thoroughness of the examination or in use of descriptive terms. This will not, of course, preclude the correction of erroneous ratings, nor will it preclude assignment of a rating in conformity with §4.7.

[29 FR 6718, May 22, 1964, as amended at 61 FR 52700, Oct. 8, 1996]

*****There is a reg that states a diagnosis can NOT be changed due to any ONE examination. Right now I can't find it - maybe someone else will be able to post it for you.

Hope this helps a vet.

carlie

[hp1030]

I would like, as I think many others,to see this regulation in regards to the rules governing a change of diagnosis.

I think I might need to use it very soon.

[carlie]

hp,

See my thread - looking for a reg.

Hope this helps you.

carlie