PTSD (post-traumatic stress disorder) decisions — 2019

The Veteran's PTSD was granted a 50% disability rating effective August 12, 2012.

An initial 30 percent rating for the service-connected pelvic floor dysfunction (PFD) is granted, subject to the laws and regulations governing the award of monetary benefits.,An initial rating of 50 percent, but no higher, for the service-connected posttraumatic stress disorder (PTSD) from March 7, 2008 to July 5, 2017 (i.e., the entire period on appeal) is granted, subject to the laws and regulations governing the award of monetary benefits.

The Veteran's claim for an increased rating for PTSD with depressive disorder and alcohol dependence in remission was denied, as the symptoms do not meet the criteria for a higher evaluation. The Veteran's claim for TDIU due to service-connected disability was granted.

The Veteran's employment history is unclear, and the Board finds a remand necessary to obtain complete dates of employment from the Veteran and his employers.

The Board has remanded the Veteran's claims of service connection for right knee strain and PTSD due to inadequate medical opinions regarding the nature and etiology of these conditions.

The Veteran's appeal for a higher rating for PTSD and service connection for chronic bronchitis has been dismissed due to the death of the Veteran.

The Veteran's claim for service connection for PTSD has been granted. The ratings for her left and right foot hallux valgus have also been granted, with each receiving a 10 percent rating.

The Board has determined that another remand is necessary to properly adjudicate the Veteran's claims for increased disability ratings for his service-connected low back strain, TBI, and PTSD.

The Veteran's appeal for service connection for PTSD and depression was dismissed due to his death.

The Veteran's PTSD with adjustment disorder was found to result in occupational and social impairment with reduced reliability and productivity, warranting a 50% rating. The appeal for an increased rating is denied.

The Board found that the appellant's service was dishonorable due to a general court-martial conviction for sexual abuse of his step-daughter. The character of discharge bars VA benefits, as he would not have been eligible for a discharge under conditions other than dishonorable at the end of his first obligated period of service.

The Veteran's PTSD is rated at 50 percent, the maximum schedular rating available. The Board denied a higher rating as his symptoms do not meet or approximate the criteria for a 70 percent rating.

The Veteran is granted special monthly compensation (SMC) based on the need for regular aid and attendance of another person due to his service-connected disabilities.

The Board has granted service connection for Posttraumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD) and Depression, finding that the Veteran's current conditions are related to his military service.

The Veteran withdrew his claim for an increased rating in excess of 70 percent for PTSD, and the appeal is dismissed.

The Board has decided that the issue of entitlement to a Total Disability Rating Based on Individual Unemployability (TDIU) is not yet ready for appellate consideration and has been remanded. The Veteran's claim will be reconsidered with additional evidence, including VA examination reports and employment information.

The Veteran's PTSD has been granted a 100% rating from March 27, 2012 due to total occupational and social impairment.

The Board has remanded several issues related to the Veteran's service connection claims, including PTSD and heart condition. The hearing transcript is associated with the claims file, and a VA examination for psychiatric conditions is needed. Additional development of records from Dr. Steehler and AFOSI search on the named NCO TSgt are required.

The Board has determined that the Veteran's PTSD is etiologically related to his service, and therefore grants service connection for PTSD.

The Veteran's PTSD is rated at 70 percent, but no higher. The Board found that the Veteran’s symptoms of suicidal ideation, depression, anxiety, and anger warrant a 70 percent rating for PTSD. However, other issues related to service connection remain on appeal.