The Veteran's claim for an increased rating for hearing loss was denied because he failed to appear for a scheduled VA examination. The TDIU claim was also denied as the evidence did not show that his service-connected disabilities prevented him from securing and following substantially gainful employment.
The deciding factor: The Veteran failed to report for a scheduled VA examination, which is required for an increased rating for hearing loss. Additionally, there was no evidence showing that his service-connected disabilities precluded him from obtaining or maintaining substantially gainful employment.
- Claimed conditions
- Hearing loss, Ischemic heart disease, Acquired mental disability (likely PTSD), Diabetes mellitus with erectile dysfunction, Peripheral neuropathy of the bilateral upper and lower extremities
- How they argued it
- Direct service connection
- Exposure basis
- None
- Rating assigned
- None in this decision
- Decision date
- June 12, 2019
- Citation
- 19145483
What this means for you
A denial is a starting point, not the end of the road. You can see why this claim fell short — and, if you are still inside the one-year window, the appeal lanes that may remain open to you.
What you can do next
Related decisions
Other Board decisions on a similar condition or argued the same way.
- Granted
The Veteran is granted special monthly compensation (SMC) at the R(1) rate due to his need for regular aid and attendance.
- Dismissed
The Veteran withdrew his appeals for increased ratings of ischemic heart disease and diabetes, and these claims are dismissed.
- Denied
The Board denied the Veteran's claim for an initial increased rating for hearing loss, finding that the evidence did not support a compensable rating.
- Remanded (sent back)
The Board remands the claims for service connection for hearing loss, psychiatric disorder, neck disorder, and radiculopathy of both upper and lower extremities to correct duty-to-assist errors.
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