The Board has remanded the Veteran's claims for lumbar degenerative changes and left shoulder rotator cuff tear with degenerative changes, as well as his claim for a total disability rating based on individual unemployability. The case is also remanded to address the need for special monthly compensation based on the need for aid and attendance.
The deciding factor: The Board found that the previous decisions were not supported by sufficient reasons and bases and ordered new examinations and consideration of all evidence, including prior medical evaluations and treatment records.
- Claimed conditions
- lumbar degenerative changes, left shoulder rotator cuff tear with degenerative changes
- How they argued it
- Direct service connection
- Exposure basis
- None
- Rating assigned
- None in this decision
- Decision date
- June 11, 2019
- Citation
- 19144926
What this means for you
A remand is not a loss. The Board sent the case back for more development — often a new exam or missing records — before making a final decision. Many remands later end in a grant, and the decision spells out exactly what the Board wanted to see.
What you can do next
Related decisions
Other Board decisions on a similar condition or argued the same way.
- Remanded (sent back)
The Board has remanded the claim of entitlement to a Total Disability Rating Based on Individual Unemployability (TDIU) prior to September 29, 2016 due to inextricably intertwined issues including an increased rating for service-connected lumbar degenerative changes and a rating in excess of 20 percent for service-connected residuals of rotator cuff tear of the left shoulder.
- Granted
The Board granted service connection for obstructive sleep apnea, effective from the date of the February 2025 rating decision.
- Remanded (sent back)
The Board remands the claim for a medical examination to determine if the Veteran's current neck strain is related to his in-service activities.
- Remanded (sent back)
The Board remands the claim for a rating in excess of 70 percent for PTSD due to an inadequate medical opinion.
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This is general information, not legal advice. For advice about your own situation, talk to a VA-accredited representative — many help for free.