Higher-Level Review Closed

[dapilgrim]

My Higher-Level Review was closed yesterday. The only information it stated on VA.Gov  was Your Higher-Level Review was closed. Please contact VA or your Veterans Service Organization or representative for more information. Nothing is stated on ebenefits showing an increase or anything. Does this indicate that it was denied?

[Dee64]

I mailed form 20-0996 requesting for a higher level review (HLR) for denial for sleep apnea on 26 August 2020. My  HLR took place via phone conference on September 1, 2020. The reviewer identified himself but basically let me do most of the talking. I explained that the VA sent me to a clinic to have two sleep studies due to my chronic depresxion. The reviewer asked me if I had a C&P exam. I told him no and that the VA sent me to the clinic. I stated that the sleep study doctor wrote a nexus letter to include medical studies. He was also going to request for a C&P exam. The reviewer also told me that he had not reviewed my medical records and that he hopes everything is ruled favorably for me.  Well on September 9, 2020, I loked on VA.gov and my case read the higher level review and it stated "closed. No exams given.  That was odd for me

[GBArmy]

Dee64 It may be that they have found enough evidence based on the sleep study info and nexus letter that they do not consider a C&P necessary. Maybe.The VA doesn't have to do a C&P for all claims. Log onto va.gov and go to benefits and check your status. It will take a few days but scroll down to the "letters" section and print out a copy of your benefits letter. It might show a change in your ratings prior to you receiving your decision letter. If you also have direct deposit for your benefits check, check there to see if you have a new deposit. It will take 7-10 days after you see that a decision has been made to receive your decision letter anyway. If it is unfavorable, which I hope not, be sure to get a copy of your C&P exam. Good Luck.