Pulmonary Hypertension rated at 30% as symptomatic resolved pulmonary embolism

[wbonebrake]

OK, so here's my story. I was in Iraq in 2008-09, and started having chest pain. It was dismissed by the army doctors as probably just a strained muscle. Fast forward a few years, and I was diagnosed with pulmonary hypertension and stage one heart failure, both of which are ultimately fatal. I submitted a claim for these conditions, which was denied. I appealed this denied to the DRO in St. Louis, MO. The contention for pulmonary hypertension has a pending rating decision in the system according to my VSO. Here's my issue. I am diagnosed with Pulmonary Hypertension, as well as other diseases. The doctor who did my C&P exam clearly stated that he believed that my PH was service connected. The pending rating states that I am granted service connection for PH. However, in the section that details the rating, it is rated at 30% as "Symptomatic, following resolution of acute pulmonary embolism." In the CFR 38 section 4.97, diagnosis code 6817, Non-tuberculosis diseases of the respiratory system, Pulmonary Hypertension is clearly listed as a 100% condition. I called the 1800 number to check on the rating decision, and I was informed that it was sent to the authorizer, who then sent it back to the rater, and it is now just waiting to be authorized again. Is it possible that the authorizer saw this, and felt that the " Symptomatic, following resolution of acute pulmonary embolism" was not an accurate representation of my diagnosis, and asked for it to be updated?

[Gastone]

We'll have to wait for the forthcoming Award Letter. Think positive but be prepared for the 30% PH SC.

As to the "Big Picture," the PH 100% separate SC would obviously be great, it would also qualify you for an SMC S(1) Award ($342.00). Barring the PH 100% Award, just getting the PH SC regardless of the (%) is a very positive outcome.  PH = Cor Pulmonale = Heart Failure, all SameE-Same.

There are a number of VA Comp SC's where the Rating is influenced by a DX of PH (Cor Pulmonale). For example, take a look at the Rating Sched for Sleep Apnea. The requirements for the 100% indicate about 4 "OR's", any of which being DX'd would trigger the Bump from a 50 to a 100% rating.

Semper Fi