ptsd Ptsd Secondary To Tbi

[bigoc]

I know you probably should always just submit a claim but I have to ask. If I am currently rated for TBI and a neuro-psych exam states PTSD and depression in the findings, should I file for depression and PTSD also?

Or will it be considered being rated for the same thing or some other form of VA trickery? I know they are 2 different conditions but how does the VA treat it?

Thanks

[Berta]

TBI, as physical trauma to the brain ,is rated as to residuals and separately from PTSD.

Certainly PTSD could be secondary to TBI but it is best to claim them separately.

[carlie]

One of the many "facets" in SC of TBI - is supposed to address MH issues

as an additional yet separate disabling condition -

per the Oct 2008 regulatory changes made to DC 8045.

This change allowed for evaluations to be provided,from zero to 100% by changing DC 8045 from

"Brain Trauma" (which had a max cap of 10 % for subjective complaints) to TBI.

[Pete53]

PTSD would not be a secondary condition. The event that caused the TBI could be a stressor used to get a PTSD award but each would and should be Primary.

Just my 2 cents.

Edited November 22, 2011 by Pete53

[bigoc]

Thanks for the replies. I will definitely submit the claim. Although since I am at 90% currently it would have to be a significant rating of 50% to move my total rating to 100%. I am working so I think it is unlikely but at least it will be service connected which is usually a good thing if not immediately noticed.

[carlie]

If I had claims currently in rating or the decision phase

I would wait to submit ANYTHING else, at this time.

JMHO

[bigoc]

I will keep that in mind. I do not currently have anything pending other than appealing a TBI claim which could be a very long time.