PTSD (post-traumatic stress disorder) decisions — 2015

The Board found that the Veteran does not have a current diagnosis of PTSD and concluded that his symptoms do not meet the criteria for a diagnosis of PTSD. The VA examiners' opinions were deemed more credible than Dr. W.A.'s opinion, which was based on an incomplete review of medical records.

The Veteran's representative has withdrawn all appeals currently pending before the Board, including those for PTSD, a psychosis, and depression.

The Board has remanded the case for further examination and opinion regarding the Veteran's hypertension, specifically whether it is due to service, including exposure to Agent Orange, or secondary to his PTSD. The appeal will be readjudicated after these actions.

The Board has remanded the case due to failure to provide adequate notice for a VA examination and because of the Veteran's failure to report for the scheduled examination. The case is now being returned to the AOJ for further action.

The Board has determined that the appellant's character of discharge is not a bar to VA compensation benefits due to evidence showing he was insane at the time of his misconduct.

The Veteran's appeal is being remanded for a video conference hearing before the Board of Veterans' Appeals.

The Board has determined that additional development is needed to address the Veteran's claims for service connection, including examinations and notice regarding certain aspects of her claims.

The Veteran's low back disorder is service-connected and he has been granted a higher rating.,For his left knee disability, the Veteran was granted an increased rating to 70 percent effective from May 4, 2010. He also received separate ratings for limitation of extension (30%) and slight instability (10%).,The Veteran's right knee disability has been rated at 30 percent since July 23, 2009, with a separate rating for limitation of extension (30% effective from July 23, 2009 to July 20, 2012) and slight instability (10%).,The Veteran's PTSD has been granted an initial disability rating of 70 percent since May 4, 2010. He also received a separate rating for limitation of extension (30% effective from July 23, 2009 to July 20, 2012) and slight instability (10%).,The Veteran has been granted TDIU based on his service-connected disabilities.

The Veteran's death was caused by an accidental overdose, but the exact medication that led to his death is unclear. Service connection for an acquired psychiatric disorder (including PTSD) has been granted as a result of in-service stressors.

The Veteran's service connection claims for major depression, PTSD, and respiratory disabilities have been granted with an effective date of December 16, 2008.

The Veteran's appeal for an initial rating in excess of 30 percent for his acquired psychiatric disorder (PTSD) has been granted, and he is now rated at 50%. The issue of service connection for a respiratory disorder remains pending.

The Veteran's PTSD, left knee disability, right knee disability, right hand and finger disability, bilateral ankle sprains, and bilateral elbow disability are not service-connected. The VA examiner found no evidence of these conditions in service or related to service.

The Veteran's appeal has been withdrawn by the appellant, through his authorized representative.

The Board has denied the Veteran's claims for service connection for various acquired psychiatric disorders, back disorder, Dupuytren's contractures of both hands, breathing disorder, dysphagia, headaches, leg and foot disorders, as well as liver disorder. The highest rating assigned was 30 percent for irritable bowel syndrome.

The Veteran's claim for service connection for an acquired psychiatric disorder, other than depression and PTSD is being remanded due to the need for additional development including a VA examination.

The Veteran's appeal is being remanded due to the failure to appear for a scheduled VA examination and other procedural issues. The case will be returned to the Board after further development.

The Board has determined that additional development is needed to fully and fairly adjudicate the Veteran's claims, including obtaining medical opinions regarding his hypertension and psychiatric disorders.

The Veteran's claim for a total disability rating based on unemployability due to service-connected disabilities has been granted. His combined evaluation for compensation is 90 percent, meeting the schedular criteria.

The Board has remanded the case due to incomplete service treatment records and the need for a VA examination. The Veteran's psychiatric disabilities, including PTSD, depression, and schizophrenia, are being evaluated in relation to his active service.

The Veteran's PTSD is rated at the highest available rating of 70 percent, and his TDIU claim is granted.