ptsd Gaf Scores

[Berta]

I read this decision the other day carefully as I have situation where the vet is questioning his GAF score-long story there-and maybe he will understand better the way VA views GAF-

only one of many records of evidence they use to determine "hypothetical continuum"

"In assessing the evidence of record, it is important to note

that the GAF score is a scale reflecting the "psychological,

social, and occupational functioning on a hypothetical

continuum of mental health-illness."

http://www.va.gov/vetapp06/files2/0609739.txt

The veteran's rep fought for higher rating from 50%:

"The veteran's representative has contended that this

examination is inadequate as the noted symptomatology is not

consistent with the global assessment of functioning (GAF)

score provided. As discussed in the following decision, the

Board finds that the GAF is consistent with the reported

symptomatology and, especially, the findings on the mental

status examination. Therefore, the August 2003 examination

is adequate for rating purposes"

This is a fairly long decision----

"ORDER

Entitlement to an evaluation for PTSD in excess of 50 percent

disabling is denied"

The BVA cites See Mauerhan v. Principi, 16 Vet. App. 436

(2003).

This case might help someone out there understand that the GAF is only part of the whole- an important part but nevertheless there are many other considerations that did not warrant higher PTSD rating in this case.

The BVA raised key issues that did not reflect the veteran should be rated higher-

although I think the vet should appeal to the CAVC-but still the decision seems quite sound.

[saltydawg]

i saw my va head doc for the frist time in jan. 07 he put me on pamalor anti dep ad xanax. did i get a gaf score at that time if so how do i find out what it is? i'm going to put in a claim as these are 2nd to another s/c i have. thank you for any info.