Understanding Secondary Conditions
Secondary conditions can be a vital aspect of your VA claims. A secondary condition is an ailment that is caused or worsened by an already service-connected issue. For example, if you originally filed a claim for knee pain and it was denied for direct service connection, but you are already service connected for an ankle or hip issue, you can file a supplemental claim. In this claim, the knee pain is submitted as secondary to the mentioned service-connected ankle or hip condition. By providing a personal statement and evidence, such as a medical opinion, you can make a compelling case for re-evaluation.
Exploring Other Theories of Service Connection
Obstructive Sleep Apnea (OSA) is another condition facing frequent denial for veterans. Often attributed to factors such as obesity or smoking, direct service connections may be initially rejected. However, if you have a service-connected mental health condition or a respiratory condition, these can exacerbate sleep apnea. Consider filing a supplemental claim citing these conditions and leverage medical studies connecting these issues as supportive evidence.
Ensuring Accurateness of Your Claims
Once you’ve submitted your claims, it is crucial to confirm they are correctly reflected in your VA Profile. Recently, many have noticed that only a portion of their claims is showing up. If, for instance, you’ve submitted a claim for four conditions but only see one registered, reach out to the VA at 1-800-827-1000. The team there is typically helpful in correcting these omissions and can assist in filing a work order to amend any discrepancies.
Monitoring Changes in VA Automation
The shift towards VA automation aims to expedite processes, yet it introduces possibilities for errors. This can include the VA’s system missing recording claims, especially initial or final conditions within a submission. Regularly check your VA profile and be proactive about following up if discrepancies occur.