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Denied

The Board denied an increased rating for the veteran's gunshot wound to the left chest area, finding that it did not meet the criteria for a higher disability evaluation.

The deciding factor: The VA medical evidence showed no significant impairment of muscle function or respiratory capacity due to the gunshot wound. The current clinical findings were consistent with the history of the disability and did not warrant an increased rating under any applicable diagnostic codes.

Claimed conditions
gunshot wound to the left chest area
How they argued it
Direct service connection
Exposure basis
None
Rating assigned
10%
Decision date
July 12, 2000
Citation
0018237

This is a plain-language summary generated by AI from a public Board of Veterans’ Appeals decision. It can contain errors — always verify against the original. Look up the original decision on VA.gov (opens in a new tab) using citation 0018237.

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