The Veteran's service-connected anal fistula and hemorrhoids do not meet the criteria for SMC as he is not in need of regular aid and attendance or permanently housebound due to his service-connected disabilities.
The deciding factor: The Veteran has a single service-connected disability rated 100% (anal fistula), but does not have additional service-connected disabilities independently ratable at 60%, nor is he permanently housebound by reason of service-connected disability or disabilities. His need for aid and attendance is due to nonservice-connected hand and foot disorders, not his service-connected anal fistula.
- Claimed conditions
- anal fistula with fecal incontinence, hemorrhoids
- How they argued it
- Direct service connection
- Exposure basis
- None
- Rating assigned
- None in this decision
- Decision date
- September 25, 2015
- Citation
- 1541471
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 1541471.
What this means for you
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- Granted
The Veteran's service-connected disabilities have rendered him in need of regular aid and attendance, as evidenced by his inability to dress or undress himself, keep himself clean and presentable, and manage his daily medications. The Board has granted entitlement to SMC(l).
- Granted
The Veteran's hemorrhoids with persistent bleeding and fissures are now rated at 20 percent effective May 19, 2023.
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