What Does This Mean Copd?

[lcplcookba1]

Way over my pay grade

SECTION IV: Diagnostic testing
------------------------------
Have imaging studies or procedures been performed? Yes
[X] Chest x-ray
Date: 1/13
Results: Normal
Has pulmonary function testing (PFT) been performed? Yes
Do PFT results reported below accurately reflect the Veteran's
current
pulmonary function? Yes
PFT results
Date: 1/9/15
Pre-bronchodilator: Post-bronchodilator, if indicated:
FVC: 58% predicted FVC: 64% predicted
FEV-1: 49% predicted FEV-1: 62% predicted
FEV-1/FVC: 85% FEV-1/FVC: 95%
DLCO: 71% predicted DLCO: % predicted
Which test result most accurately reflects the Veteran's level of
disability
(based on the condition that is being evaluated for this report): FEV-1%

[Gastone]

With VA rating, Woulda, shoulda And coulda are the rules of the day. The thing all we Vets need to keep in mind is that the raters aren't Drs and some have very little experience rating our particular claims issues. What seems clear as day to the Vet is sometimes not so clear to the rater.

I just had a 2014 FDC awarded as a Secondary issue after getting the C&P Dr to agree that I was wrong on my initial Primary causative Condition. I pointed out my error and discussed the Condition that I actually believed was responsible. After reviewing the evidence, he agreed and actually completed a NEW DBQ for me at the time of the C&P. This new DBQ resulted in the Secondary Issue being Awarded. It was a rather complicated issue and the rater came in with a low % because he used the wrong rating schedule. Still have 6 mos on NOD deadline. Waiting to see if N&M evidence regarding proper rating schedule gets my decision review by Senior Rater or DRO before filing NOD. Will be interesting to see how this plays out. I'v already got my NOD requesting a DRO Hearing ready to file. Had a DRO Hearing this past 06/14, covered a 10 & 12 NOD, all major $$ issues awarded including IU T&P with no future exams scheduled. I'm a big proponent of the DRO Hearing Route.

Semper Fi

Gastone