First Experience With Va

[One-Zero]

Hello All,

I'm recently retired (SEP 2007) after 24 years service. I began the claims process while on active duty under the BDD program. My claim was submitted on April 23rd 2007 and boarded(decided?) 20 Dec 2007. I received the award letter in the mail on Dec 26th, 2007...I felt the process was pretty timely considering some of the dismal stories I've heard, the most frustrating part was having absolutely NO IDEA where my claim was during the interim period, regardless of IRIS queries or 1-800 calls.

I submitted 32 separate items on my claim, figuring I'd go for broke while everything was still fresh and I had the inclination to comb thru my SMR on active duty. I received 80% SC for the first 10 items; 30, 20, 10, 10, 10, 10, 10, 10, 10, 10. Then 0% SC for the next eleven items I claimed, then NSC/denied for the remaining 11 issues.

This was literally done in order as if someone saw the big ol' claim and said "hell, lets give him the first 10 and maybe he won't bother with the rest"...

I'm rather thankful for the 80%, apart from the $ which is much needed, I understand I now have access to medical care whether the problem is SC or not because I'm over 50%, which was my major concern.

What I'd like advice on is whether I should leave well enough alone or perhaps get an IMO for the remaining items??? There's plenty of documentation in the record but I really don't know what more I could expect...many of the conditions are probably masked by others.

For example, the 2nd item (20%) is for Cervicular Radiculopathy with Myelopathy due to traumatic C-spine degenerative disk disease status post cervical fracture...

but item #32 (NSC) is Residuals of Multiple Brain Concussions (closed head injuries) even though it's well documented and they even say so in the letter, but I don't know which one causes some of the problems - more than likely it's a cumulative combination.

It's as if they gave up rating after the first ten items.

I'm not bucking for dollars here, as long as I can be treated I hope I'm going to be ok...and I certainly don't want the VA tinkering with stuff unless it's absolutely required.

any thoughts or experience with such a situation???

best regards,

One-Zero

[One-Zero]

I have a copy of the form VA 3288, to request my c-file.

Would someone provide the correct wording for the request - something that has worked?

Any 'average time on getting this thing? Can you go a personally pick it up at VARO??

Also, what goes in the 'To' block?? the regional VAMC??

any dummy-proofing would be appreciated!

cheers,

1-0

[luvHIM]

Welcome to Hadit.

Yes, you can go to the local VARO and pick up a copy of your C-File. However, it will not be prepared on a walk-in basis, unless you just got it like that. You can review it, I believe, on a walk in basis. But to actually get a complete copy to take home with you it will take a couple of weeks. The regs state you should be provided a copy within 10 business days. But I do not think that is the norm. It is more like the exception to their own rule. It took me about three-four months to receive my complete file. But it was pretty large.

As far as wording, I merely requested in the block that says "Information Requested"

Please forward a complete copy of my C-File from 1978 to present date 2007 or at whatever point this request is processed in 2007.

Where it says "Purpose" I merely stated, "For personal record and to insure the accuracy of all information contained therein."

Someone else may have something different to add. Best regards.

[LOA]

One- Zero, Congradulations on your rating and retirement. I know you are by no means an expert but I to am getting ready to retire (22years) and use the BDD system. I will be starting a new thread and any information you can provide those of us that are still on active duty that are retiring soon would be greatly appreciated.

Again Congradulation and thank you for your service

[BMCS00]

Welcome to Hadit.

Yes, you can go to the local VARO and pick up a copy of your C-File. However, it will not be prepared on a walk-in basis, unless you just got it like that. You can review it, I believe, on a walk in basis. But to actually get a complete copy to take home with you it will take a couple of weeks. The regs state you should be provided a copy within 10 business days. But I do not think that is the norm. It is more like the exception to their own rule. It took me about three-four months to receive my complete file. But it was pretty large.

I stopped by to take a peak at mine a week or so ago. The desk person said I had to request an appointment (in writing, on a form they gave me) and the fellow said the appointment would be 3 to 4 weeks out, probably late on a friday afternoon, as that's when it's quiet there. Oh, he also said I only get 1 hour with the file. Do you suppose they will let me burn a copy of it? Or might it be too big for that?

:)

[One-Zero]

Does anyone have a name (or few names) and contact info for a solid VSO in the WashDC area or Alexandria Va area?

After comparing notes here it is obvious that my claim could go further, I've already emailed Dr Bash in case that becomes a necessary option - but a really need a good SO that can ensure I'm not dropping some critical pieces in the cracks.

Thank You!

1-0

[Maurice]

Filippi >DAV National Service Officer,Supervisor in DAV

VARO Federal Bulding,RM1229

31 Hopkins Plaza

Baltimore,MD21201

410-230-4440 B) :) B)