PTSD (post-traumatic stress disorder) decisions — 2011

The Board found that the Veteran does not have a current diagnosis of PTSD and concluded that his psychiatric symptoms are related to a chronic pain syndrome resulting from a post-service workplace injury.

The Veteran's claim for education benefits under Chapter 30, Title 38, United States Code (Chapter 30 or Montgomery GI Bill (MGIB)) to include an extension of the 10-year delimiting date was denied as he did not apply for an extension within one year after his expiration date or within one year of the last day he was prevented from pursuing such a program.

The Veteran's service-connected PTSD is currently rated at 30 percent, effective February 17, 2009. The disability picture more closely resembles occupational and social impairment with reduced reliability and productivity.

The Veteran's death was not caused by any service-connected disability, and the appellant is not entitled to DIC benefits under 38 U.S.C.A. § 1318.

The Board has determined that the Veteran's coronary artery disease is secondary to his service-connected PTSD and granted both service connection for this condition and a TDIU based on his PTSD.

The Board has determined that a new VA examination is needed to assess the etiology of the Veteran's diagnosed PTSD and acquired psychiatric disorder, as the prior examiner was unable to provide an opinion without resorting to mere speculation.

The Veteran's service-connected PTSD is currently rated at 30 percent, and the Board has determined that a higher evaluation of 50 percent is warranted for his condition.

The Veteran's appeal is being remanded for additional development, including a new VA examination to consider the newly obtained treatment records and provide an addendum opinion.

The Board found that the Veteran failed to report for a VA examination scheduled in June 2010 and denied his claim of entitlement to service connection for PTSD due to lack of competent medical evidence showing current or past diagnosis.

The Veteran's claims for service connection for schizophrenia and PTSD are being remanded due to the need for further development, including obtaining additional medical records and a VA examination.

The Veteran was granted service connection for PTSD, diabetes mellitus, back condition, sciatica, Bell's palsy, and heart condition. The effective date of the grant of service connection for diabetes mellitus is set to November 17, 2005.

New and material evidence has been received to reopen the claim of entitlement to service connection for Posttraumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD). The Veteran's testimony alone cannot establish the occurrence of a non-combat stressor. However, there is no credible evidence establishing that the Veteran's claimed stressor - driving a Jeep into the ditch during service - took place.,New and material evidence has not been received to reopen the claim of entitlement to service connection for an acquired psychiatric disorder. The Veteran's statements are considered in light of previous denials based on lack of evidence showing a relationship between current psychiatric disorders and service.

The Veteran's appeal is remanded due to a request for a travel board hearing at the RO.

The Board has determined that further development is necessary before a decision on the merits can be made regarding service connection for an acquired psychiatric disability, including PTSD. The Veteran's statements regarding combat stressors are considered credible and should be taken into account in any opinion regarding nexus between his current psychiatric disabilities and service.

The Veteran's PTSD is currently rated at 50 percent, effective from the date of the March 2007 rating decision. The disability remains in excess of 30 percent prior to July 3, 2006.

The Veteran's PTSD is currently rated at 10 percent, and the Board has ordered a new VA examination to assess the current severity of his service-connected disability. The RO/AMC must also obtain all relevant private, VA, and Vet Center records for review.

The Board has remanded the case for additional development, including obtaining VA treatment records and scheduling a VA examination to assess the current severity of the Veteran's PTSD.

The Board has denied the Veteran's claims for service connection for an acquired psychiatric disorder and a left ankle disorder, as well as his claim for an initial rating in excess of 0 percent for left ear hearing loss. The Veteran did not have a left ankle disability or provide credible evidence to support his claimed residuals from a left ankle sprain.

The Board has remanded the case due to new regulations regarding PTSD service connection and a need for further examination. The Veteran's claim of service connection for PTSD is being reviewed under these new regulations.

The Veteran's claim for service connection for PTSD is being remanded due to the need for a VA examination and further development of his claims.