Does The Assignment Of A Diagnostic Code Mean Any Thing

[mos1833]

i stole the information below from another post.

it got me thinking, if a vet is rated using a diagnostic code number.

does the fact they used a dc number make it service connectied.

in other words i was denied benefits,based on a certain diagnostic code.

whether they use the code or not, does that mean any thing.at what point

is it called in to play. i am sorry if this is confusing, thanks

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The assignment of a particular diagnostic code is "completely

dependent on the facts of a particular case." See Butts v.

Brown, 5 Vet. App. 532, 538 (1993). One diagnostic code may

be more appropriate than another based on such factors as an

individual's relevant medical history, the current diagnosis

and demonstrated symptomatology. Any change in a diagnostic

code by VA must be specifically explained. Pernorio v.

Derwinski, 2 Vet. App. 625 (1992).

[brokensoldier244th]

Not sure, exactly, what you are asking. If it was rated or denied under a diag code, that just means its the closest applicable code in the CFR that applies. GERD, for example, does not have a specific diag code, nor does ED, but they are assigned diag codes for "Loss of Creative organ" (ed) and Gastritis (I think) for GERD.

[mos1833]

thanks broken

let me ask this, if you were denied (gerd) would they still use a d.c. number.

or would they just say its denied.??

[brokensoldier244th]

They should always list it. If I filed under a specific code (like my ED not getting SMC payments under "loss of creative") and then deny me, or grant, it should list the applicable code. Sometimes they deny under one code, and reassign it under another more appropriate one. You see this a lot with MH claims, since what may initially be diag. as depression may end up after further counseling/medication, etc be shown to be PTSD or Bipolar or something. You may try to get your ducks in a row by filing under code "X" but they may say "it is denied under code X, but granted under code Y since that is more applicable". My sciatic nerve was diag that way since I got out in 2002, right around the time they were re-writing the CFR for back injuries. I was initially diagnosed under one code, then I was increased under another related one as they moved from 'number of bedridden days' to 'range of motion'.

[mos1833]

thanks again

in 1985 i filed a claim for a back condition.

the diagnostic codes they used were 5299-5295

but said it was not choronic in service,

and also x-rays showed a defect in my back.

now i thought there was a mandatory minimum for either of

those codes.

see what i mean ??

[Chuck75]

The diagnostic codes are supposedly the key to how the claim was/is rated, and how it "fits" the rating "Schedule".

As to service connection or not, the diagnostic code is just a small but important detail.

A real concern is that the most appropriate code advantageous to the veteran is assigned.

It's quite possible, particularly in mental health, and other medical claims, to have multiple codes

that can be applied.

[brokensoldier244th]

MH can only ultimately be applied with 1 code. Multiple codes for the same condition cannot be used due to CFR and pyramidding regulations.

Did you (mos1833) get an LOD on the back injury? Was it diag in servce and claimed within a year of discharge? That is also important. I was discharged for a back (trauma) injury, but I know that the longer I would have waited the less chance I would have had for SC if I didnt have an LOD for it and a MEB/PEB

CAS