PTSD (post-traumatic stress disorder) decisions — 2014

The Veteran's service connection claim for an acquired psychiatric disorder, to include PTSD with depression, is granted. The Board finds that the Veteran has a qualifying DSM-IV diagnosis of PTSD and that his current diagnosed PTSD is related to a verified in-service stressor. However, there is no evidence of alcohol or drug dependence disability.

The Board has ordered additional development due to the need for VA treatment records from the Kansas City VAMC. The Veteran's claims will be reconsidered based on all evidence received, including recent service treatment records.

The Veteran's appeal is being remanded for additional development, including a new hearing before a Veterans Law Judge.

The Veteran's service-connected PTSD has been rated at 70 percent since May 12, 2011. The claim for a higher initial rating and TDIU due to PTSD was denied.

The Veteran's posttraumatic stress disorder has been rated at 70 percent since July 11, 2013. Prior to that date, the claim for a higher initial rating was denied.

The Board has remanded the case for a VA psychiatric examination to address the etiology of any and all diagnosed psychiatric disorders, including alcohol dependence. The Veteran's service connection claim remains pending.

The Board has remanded the case for further development, including providing appropriate notice to the Veteran and obtaining private treatment records. The VA employability examination must also be scheduled.

The Board found no evidence of a service connection for PTSD or any other psychiatric disorder during the periods of active duty for training in the Florida Army National Guard. The Appellant's current psychiatric disorders are not related to his military service.

The Board has determined that the Veteran's service-connected PTSD rendered him unable to secure and maintain substantially gainful employment for the entire appeal period, warranting a TDIU for accrued benefits purposes.

The Board has remanded the case for additional development and an addendum opinion to address whether the Veteran meets the criteria for a PTSD diagnosis, as well as any other psychiatric disorders. The VA examiner will also provide opinions on whether these conditions are related to service events.

The Board has denied the Veteran's claim for service connection for PTSD as there is no credible evidence to corroborate his claimed in-service stressors.

The Veteran's psychiatric disorder, including PTSD, is as likely as not related to his active service and fear of hostile military activity. Service connection for a psychiatric disorder is granted.

The Veteran's claims for service connection for an acquired psychiatric disorder to include PTSD and tinnitus are being remanded due to the need for additional development, including obtaining medical opinions regarding the etiology of these conditions.

The Veteran's PTSD and patellofemoral syndrome of the right knee are granted service connection. The issue of a right knee disorder other than patellofemoral syndrome is remanded for further development.

The Veteran's appeals for service connection on the merits have been dismissed due to her withdrawal of these claims. The Board has not jurisdiction over these issues and they are therefore dismissed.

The Veteran's claim for an increased initial evaluation in excess of 70 percent for service-connected PTSD is being remanded due to the need for a new VA examination and consideration of additional treatment records.

The Veteran's PTSD symptoms, including suicidal ideation and inability to establish effective relationships, have resulted in occupational and social impairment with deficiencies in most areas since June 25, 2001. The Board has determined that the criteria for a 70% rating are met from June 25, 2001 to September 1, 2009.

The Veteran's appeal to have an effective date earlier than July 31, 2008 for the award of service connection for Posttraumatic Stress Disorder has been withdrawn.

The Veteran's appeal is being remanded for additional development, including a new VA examination for PTSD and obtaining private medical records. The claims for increased rating and TDIU are inextricably intertwined.

The Veteran's claims for service connection for right ear hearing loss, an acquired psychiatric disorder (PTSD), a lung condition, diabetes mellitus, and tinnitus have been denied. The claim to reopen the previously denied claim for service connection for right ear hearing loss is also denied.