Another Claim Question On Hearing

[tom91]

ANother question on my hearing claim. In 1991 my rating docs state the following:

Exams in xx 1986 and xx 1986 show veterans hearing to be within normal limits. Discharge exame of xx1991 shows hearing to be within normal limits within the speech range for which service connection can be granted. It goes on to say: Service connection for hearing loss must be disallowed as the veteran's hearing is shown to be within normal limits, for which service connection can be established.

Are these comments not contradicting? Should they have not given me sc rating?

The exame dated in 1991 by the Army states - service member demonstrates hearing loss and needs further evalution. I have the audio tests results from the exam but not sure how to read the findings.

[nlualum82]

When I started getting involved with my claims, I took the info by an audiologists office. It was about opening time and there were no cars in the parking lot. I was fortunate enough to find a friendly person who had the time to help me. He explained the graphs and readings.

For the rest you'll need the graphs in the CFR.

[Berta]

The audio Schedule for ratings will show you how they rate per the decibels etc- and also any BVA case re: hearing loss might show what I mean too-

that sure is conflicting info in your service records.

I wonder if the Army even did an exam for you- that fully covered the decibels, whisper tests, etc etc or if they just asked if you could hear them talk ?

[tom91]

I actually have a copy of the exam but can't make heads or tails of their findings...as far as the audio readings. The doctor note written states that hearing loss I demonstrate hearing loss and need further evaluation -- which never happened.

[Berta]

If you go to 4.85 :

http://www.warms.vba.va.gov/bookc.html#f

it might help you decifer the hearing report- can you cover the personal stuff and scan it and attach it here?

[Berta]

http://www.warms.vba.va.gov/regs/38CFR/BOOKC/PART4/S4_85.DOC

this might help decifer that audio report or can you scan it and cover

[tom91]

Thanks Berta, I'll take a look at it. Spoke to the regional office today and found out the letter of my rating on all claims was sent out today. They have not denied the portion for my hearing but want me to have another audio exam -- not sure if it can be a private doctor or theirs. I plan to get it done asap. Any idea after that how long it takes by chance? Since it isn't an appeal (not yet anyway).