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Secondary Claims Advice

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2W1_Socal

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Hello, I recently went from 20% to 60% from a recent spinal fusion (1.5 years ago). Processed my claim online and prefer to do things myself. Find it more effective. Now, I need some advice from the pros about Secondary Conditions.

-    I have been diagnosed with arthritis in my hip due to my Degenerative Disc Disease in my spine. And, just had surgery on my left hip for a labral tear. Also, having a hard time mentally due to the chronic pain as I have nerve damage on my left side ( had a nerve test done and have documentation to back this up). Work has been rough and they aren’t being the best to accommodate my symptoms and allowing me to work from home.  Life has been pretty crappy 💩

How should I proceed with filing for these secondary conditions? Do I need to have my Doctor(s) fill out a DBQ and submit a personal statement or, submit my records from my doctor and a nexus letter? 
 

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My nexus letter from my doctor handled mine. I would think submitting your records from your doctor and a nexus letter would be a good way to go. 

If you are being treated for mental for these conditions you need to apply for it too. If you aren't being treated then I would suggest you look into it. I have had the same type of issues with work, chronic pain and mental. Mental has now become my biggest issue.

Best of luck 

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4 minutes ago, kanewnut said:

My nexus letter from my doctor handled mine. I would think submitting your records from your doctor and a nexus letter would be a good way to go. 

If you are being treated for mental for these conditions you need to apply for it too. If you aren't being treated then I would suggest you look into it. I have had the same type of issues with work, chronic pain and mental. Mental has now become my biggest issue.

Best of luck 

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Thanks, I am being treated for depression for my chronic pain. Will look into a Nexus letter from each doctor. Pretty sad when I have 3-4 different doctors treating me for my various conditions 😞

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Yes, you need a nexus letter or dont even bother.  For secondary conditions, your doctor has to say that your DDD and/ or arthritis is "at least as likely as not" due to your sc spinal fusion.  

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