Higher Level Review

[Duster4-60]

I received a 50% PSTD rating. I think that is low. Submitted an Higher Level Review.  Just wondering how successful this type of appeal is. Looking to get 70%.

Thanks 

 

[pacmanx1]

2 hours ago, Duster4-60 said:

I received a 50% PSTD rating. I think that is low. Submitted an Higher Level Review.  Just wondering how successful this type of appeal is. Looking to get 70%.

Thanks 

As long as you have proof that you meet the next criteria it should not be a problem. You may have to appeal to the BVA. Some may say do a supplemental or another HRL, but you may still have to file an appeal to the BVA.

Occupational and social impairment, with deficiencies in most areas, such as work, school, family relations, judgment, thinking, or mood, due to such symptoms as: suicidal ideation; obsessional rituals which interfere with routine activities; speech intermittently illogical, obscure, or irrelevant; near-continuous panic or depression affecting the ability to function independently, appropriately and effectively; impaired impulse control (such as unprovoked irritability with periods of violence); spatial disorientation; neglect of personal appearance and hygiene; difficulty in adapting to stressful circumstances (including work or a work-like setting); inability to establish and maintain effective relationships...70%

[pwrslm]

HRL is a de novo (new eyes on the same evidence). Supplemental claims need new evidence. It takes a Psych to do PTSD evals. My degree is Psych but I spec sports motivation and Drug/Alcohol Rehab. The truth is that the C&P Psych is going to speak to you one time and his/her paycheck comes from the VA, so it can become an adversarial relationship when they see Vets. Nothing will probably ever change in this nature, so when there is an error they will tend to err to the benefit of the guy who is paying the bill (IMO). 
If you were going to VA MH clinics for treatment of PTSD, you may have a much better angle to document the severity of your condition. Speak to your caregiver and see if they agree, and if so, ask them to put the specific information into your VA Medical record showing what is needed for the next higher level rating. By doing this, you have new evidence from a VA employed professional that can be weighted against the C&P exam.