I'm Now Having A Dro Review

[Ryguy]

Today i sat down with my Veteran Service Organization and she informed me that it was better to go with a DRO Review versus a traditional appeal, she was telling me that a DRO Review looks at the case as a whole whereas on the traditional appeal they only look at certain evidence. I did provide her with a very strong buddy statement and 2 doctors notes, she said it may work, but I should definitely get my doctor to specify how my upper back and neck issues are related to the chronic lower back issues. Is that really true that a DRO Review is better than a traditional appeal?? I've just never heard of that ,but the VSO stated that the DRO's in my state are very good and she could see my service connection going through if i went this route.

Any Ideas or Tips?

[brokensoldier244th]

I don't know about 'better' but it can be a lot shorter (months or more, not years) and its handled locally, not by the BVA in D.C. They have to look over the entire case and re-adjudicate it De Novo "from the beginning".

[carlie]

Ryguy,

For more info and research for you, click below

and study Chapter 5 - Appeals.

http://www.benefits.va.gov/warms/M21_1MR1.asp

[rdawg]

if you get a strong statement from your dr. you should just submit it and ask for a reconsideration based on new evidence. then if they deny again you can still ask for a dro review.

[john999]

I think it is best to ask for a personal hearing with the DRO and not just a review. You can bring your spouse or significant other to testify about how your disability affects your everyday life. You also get a chance to look the RO in the eye. These guys are not bleeding hearts but if you make a good impression on them I think it can't hurt. Also, you can make the case clear to them and avoid these miserable little misunderstandings that delay your claim for 5 years.

[Ryguy]

Ok, thanks Carlie for that link, I will definitely research it. I just thought it was funny that the VSO walked upstairs to get my file out of a cabinet waiting for a review. She did state that it has will be 2 years since my notice of disagreement and its a 2 year waiting period for a dro to make a decision on a claim at the VARO in my state. and she did state my docket number is coming up very soon, like within the next 2 months. I was hesitant with the change the VSO made, but her and the manager of the office said this was the best way, and they've seen better results this route.