ptsd Confused And Could Use Some Tips And Advice

[LongTooth]

Hi,

I have recently started the claims process with the VA (I filed an informal claim on 04-Sept-2013

I see a private therapist and have a current diagnosis of PTSD, Bipolar II, poly substance abuse.

My therapist agrees with me that my disorders are SC

I've taken the initiative already to get copies of my DD214 as well as my private medical records. Currently I'm trying to track down my records from when I was placed on a 72 hr hold in a psych ward in 2000.

My prescribing Psychologist, who puts in time at the practice I go to, is also a VA doc.

I guess my question is this. If my therapist tells me that they have diagnosed me with the above disorders does that mean that my Psychologist (the VA doc) had to have signed off on the diagnosis and if so does this mean that I should have an easier time with the VA?

I'm also concerned that I may have to track down treatment records from the Army (I assume those would be in my DD214?) Where would I look for any SMR's that I may need? I also wonder if maybe I should try and track down any relevant records from my old Unit to show things such as an Article 15 and any evaluations done that would show the onset of my conditions.

Also if anybody could advise me of what else I should be doing at this early stage to present an effective claim please feel free to advise me.

Thank you in advance for any and all help

Jason

[JT24usn]

Thanks pr. Only knew what the va would order.

[john999]

If you want to try and upgrade LTH discharge over 15 years old you will probably need a lawyer. I tried to have my honorable discharge changed to a medical after 15 years and I was immediately shot down on the 15 year deadline. There are lawyers that attempt these cases. I found the Army board of correction of military records to be very unhelpful on my own.

[LongTooth]

I was discharged May of 2000 so I have some time to go before I run up against the wall I'm hoping to have better luck with the ADRB. Depending on finances you bet I'll have a lawyer present.

[free_spirit_etc]

Something that surprised me was that they don't always have to give you your mental health records. When we went to the VA to get my husband's records we asked if they gave us all the records. They said no - that they had done a mental exam, but they didn't generally give those out. My husband asked for his, but they had to read it first to make sure there wasn't anything in it that would "upset" him. So you might also see if they will release your medical records to your private doctor to make sure you are able to get them all.

[LongTooth]

I intend to get all my records ahead of time before I even walk into a VA hospital so I'm as armed with information as I possibly can be. I want to be able to refute every denial I can as early as possible. Also having my SMR's ahead of time will allow me to submit them for at least 1 private medical opinion.

[LongTooth]

So a few things to report I dropped a request for my Official personnel file from the Natl' Archives and a request for my SMR's from the VA which confirmed that they had them. Should have the OPMF in about a month and the SMR's in about 3 months. My current therapist says it's clinic policy to schedule a 3hr window of review with me to go over my files with them before they will release them to me which I find odd.

I also will be starting my SSA disability case as well.

Also starting to get a hold of other incidental but needed pieces of information.

Not much other to do than to wait for everything to arrive.