Md Bath

[spike]

Just wondering has anyone used Md. Bath, and how good is he and any information would be appreciated. Expensive?

[vaf]

Agreed, this is a tough decision because it involves a lot of money and some faith. But, when claims rise and fall on the strength of your evidence, at least in our judgement, the investment was worth it.

There's no statute requiring that the medical expert rendering an opinion personally examine the veteran beforehand. An IMO in this case could be an evaluation of medical evidence already on record, compared to 38 CFR. Also, the VA cannot overrule an IMO without offering concrete evidence for doing so that can arguably put the benefit of the doubt in the VA's favor. It's not legal for the VA to simply dismiss or disregard an IMO without cause, and the IMO physician's not personally examining the veteran does not constitute "cause."

It's kind of like the VA physician who signs off on C & P's conducted by PA's, nurses or residents, not having examined the veteran personally. Only, you will be hard pressed to find someone with the medical credentials and curriculum vitae that Dr. Bash has which are testaments to his credibility.

[Guest jangrin]

Spike,

As with any medical problem it is always important to seek a specialist that has expertise in the area where you are seeking advise or an opinion. You probably don't want a podiatrist rendering an opinion about a heart condition.

We hired Dr. Bash to give an opinion regarding my husbands medical conditions. At the time we lived in California and Dr. Bash was in New York. When we talked to Dr. Bash he asked us to put in writing our case history. Then what type and kind of help we were seeking. He also asked if we would send the records available for his review. After he reviewed everything he then told us whether he could help us. The decision on reviewing your record and writing the opinion is based on if he feels his opinion is what you need to win your claim or strengthen or increase your rating. He will not take a case if he thinks his opinion will make little or no difference.

The other thing you should know, is that Dr. Bash does Not waste words. He is very direct in his reports and he does not soft peddle or waste words. His curriculum vitae is longer than his reports/opinions.

He wrote a three page opinion for my husband and my husband got SSDI and 60%TDIU based on his opinion and report. Without that I feel we would be at about 20% to 30% right now and in the middle of the appeals process. I believe Dr. Bash's medical opinion made a huge difference in how my husband claim was decided.

Finally, it is important to know that yes it is expensive. For us it was a one time expense. We actually paid more becasue we meet Dr. Bash and he did an actual physical exam in conjunction with his opinion. My husband's medical records were very few and we wanted a second opinion other than just the VA medical doctors. Dr. Bash was very obliging and very thorough,he spent over two hours with us doing the exam and going over records. I will say it was the most well spent money we have spent in a long time. His fees are minimal when compaired to what compensation my husband will recieve for the rest of his life.

I would at least ask for an opinion as to if he can help your particular problem or if it is or is not within his scope of practice. My husbands was for DMII, CT heart films, lumbar films, PN, ED and knee, as well as hearing and tinnitus. He did and knew all the correct terminology to write. What ever you decide will be the right decision for you. Everyones needs are different. Good luck.

Jangrin

PS- we sold alot of family momento's that we would have liked to keep in order to pay for the exam and report.

Edited July 10, 2007 by jangrin

[Chuck75]

Understand that this is common practice by the VA and SSA. A captive Dr. writes the opinion, based upon the medical records and other considerations. (or signs off on an opinion written by someone else, supposedly a medical professional)

Besides, this is also fairly common practice for consultant Drs in normal med practice.

"Dr gives an IMO by only looking at the med evidence"

Thats good news, but I am woundering how wwould the VARO or VBA taake it if the Dr gives an IMO by only looking at the med evidence we give him w/o seeing us in person?

Not trying to be a jerk, just trying to understand this MAZE!!

Thanks

jecsb4