Need Help Fast On This One! Please Anwser...

[sawgunner]

Which statement should I get my doc to say in his letter.

The lady at the local VA office said it is allways best to get them to say "at least as likely as not", but some here have said "more likely than not".

I believe my doc would be willing to write ethier...

Is ethier one better?

It would seem that the latter is better but the lady at the VA office said that the VA can actually use that wording against the vet.

[AimHigh1986]

Which statement should I get my doc to say in his letter.

The lady at the local VA office said it is allways best to get them to say "at least as likely as not", but some here have said "more likely than not".

I believe my doc would be willing to write ethier...

Is ethier one better?

It would seem that the latter is better but the lady at the VA office said that the VA can actually use that wording against the vet.

This is what I've always been told:

1. “is due to” (100% sure)

2. “more likely than not” (greater than 50%)

3. “at least as likely as not” (equal to or greater than 50%)

4. “not at least as likely as not” (less than 50%)

5. “is not due to” (0%)"

[jbasser]

The wording carries considerable importance.

At least as likely as not weighs the evidence at 50 percent and should envoke the benefit of the doubt rule.

It is always better to get an opinion that favors this criteria or higher. When getting an IMO from a Private Doc, the biggest issue is the entire medical file. It must state that all medical evidence was reviewed or the RO will have a party on your behalf as they chop the opinion to pieces because the medical history was not reviewed.

J

[Bravo6]

This is what I've always been told:

1. “is due to” (100% sure)

2. “more likely than not” (greater than 50%)

3. “at least as likely as not” (equal to or greater than 50%)

4. “not at least as likely as not” (less than 50%)

5. “is not due to” (0%)"

Great information!

[pilgrim01]

This is what I've always been told:

1. "is due to" (100% sure)

2. "more likely than not" (greater than 50%)

3. "at least as likely as not" (equal to or greater than 50%)

4. "not at least as likely as not" (less than 50%)

5. "is not due to" (0%)"

Well, where would "most likely" fit in, in this picture?

[carlie]

sawgunner,

Either one is good but the doc also has to support either statement with

full medical rationale as to why it is their opinion,

more likely - as likely - as not related to military (or as a secondary disability).

Thats another reason they need to review your records and state that they have done so.

Example:

Its my opinion that Mr. Sawgunners diagnosis is more/as likely as not a direct result of

XXXXXX.

As shown in SMR/STRs dated xx/xx/xxxx and xx/xx/xxxx, Mr Sawgunner had XXXX, etc...

jmho,

[gp747]

On my first award says service connection for bipolar disorder has been established as directly related to military service. Is that good ?

oh! also says more than 50% likely began in service.

Edited March 19, 2010 by skunk