Scars decisions — 2000

The Board denied a higher rating for burn scars of the right thigh and leg, finding that they do not meet the criteria for a compensable rating under VA's schedular guidelines.

The veteran's service-connected disabilities effectively preclude him from gainful employment, and the Board has granted a total disability rating based on individual unemployability.

The Board has determined that the veteran's laceration scar on his right thigh does not meet the criteria for a compensable rating under VA disability evaluation guidelines.

The Board has granted service connection for scars of the left lateral chest and low back, but denied service connection for amenorrhea. The veteran's increased rating claim for head and face scars was not addressed as it is no longer on appeal.

The Board has determined that the veteran did not file an adequate substantive appeal for all issues listed, and thus lacks jurisdiction to consider these claims.

The veteran's claim for an increased evaluation of his service-connected seborrheic dermatitis and scarring was granted, with a rating of 30 percent effective July 18, 1997.

The Board denied compensation under 38 U.S.C.A. § 1151 for scarring of the left side of the face as a result of treatment by the Department of Veterans Affairs, finding that the treatment provided was appropriate and the resulting facial scarring was a necessary consequence of the procedure.

The Board found that the veteran's disabilities do not permit training to begin within a reasonable period; thus, achievement of a vocational goal is infeasible at this time.

The Board denied the veteran's claims for higher ratings for his service-connected left index finger amputation, shrapnel wound to the left thigh with involvement of Muscle Group XIV, and right arm scars. The residuals of a left knee scar were also not rated as compensable.

The veteran's service-connected disabilities do not meet the criteria for special monthly compensation based on the need for regular aid and attendance of another person or upon housebound status.

The Board denied the veteran's claim for a total rating based on individual unemployability due to service-connected disabilities, finding that his combined schedular disability evaluation was 60 percent and he is not considered unemployable solely by reason of his service-connected disabilities.

The Board denied the veteran's claims for service connection for various conditions, finding that they were not well-grounded and thus not supported by competent evidence showing a relationship to service.

The veteran's appeal for payment of unauthorized medical expenses resulting from private medical care received on July 8, 1996 was denied as the required criteria were not met.

The veteran's hiatal hernia is found to be aggravated by his service-connected left inguinal herniorrhaphy scar with chronic skin ulcer. The evaluation for the left inguinal herniorrhaphy scar remains at 40 percent, and a separate compensable evaluation is granted for a draining lesion.

The veteran's service-connected disabilities do not meet the criteria for specially adapted housing or financial assistance in purchasing an automobile due to their severity.

The veteran's service-connected disabilities do not prevent him from obtaining and retaining substantially gainful employment.

The Board has determined that the veteran's current hypertension is aggravated by his service-connected anxiety reaction, and has granted a rating of 10% for his GSW scar. The claim for increased rating remains pending.

The veteran's total disability rating based on individual unemployability due to service-connected disabilities is granted.

The Board has determined that the veteran's service-connected conditions do not warrant a compensable or higher disability evaluation.

The veteran's unauthorized medical expenses for a penile implant removal and replacement are denied as there was no medical emergency, VA facilities were available, and the treatment was not necessary.