Statistics

[Hoppy]

Back in the days when Mr. Thompson was testifying to congress the VA kept statistics as to the percentage of claims that were originally denied without a C&P exam and later awarded when a C&P was provided. He testified that it was such a low rate that it did not justify the VA in scheduling a C&P for all claims.

I would like to know if the VA keeps statistics on the number of claims that fall into the following categories.

Claims originally denied and closed that were later reopened and awarded at any level on evidence that existed in the file at the time of the original denial.

Claims originally denied and closed that were later reopened and awarded at any level on evidence that existed but was not in the file at the time of the original denial.

Claims originally denied and closed that were later reopened and awarded at any level on evidence that could have been developed at the time of the first denial.

The statistics should show the type of claim. Such as; psych conditions, immune system diseases, neck and back injuries.

Such statistics would be a good indicator of the competence of representation available during the first claim relative to the type of injury. It is possible that the VSO’s have a good feel for this information and that is why they try to keep attorneys at a distance from the adjudication process. Such statistics might be embarrassing to the VA and the VSO’s.