The Board has decided to remand two cases: one for a higher rating of right-side sciatica and another for a compensable rating for a right distal third finger fracture. The reasons are that the most recent VA examinations were conducted in November 2012, which is more than five years ago, and new evidence or updated treatment records may provide a clearer picture of the current severity of these conditions.
The deciding factor: The Board found that the Veteran's claims for higher ratings require additional evaluations due to significant time passing since the last VA examinations, which could not account for any changes in his condition.
- Claimed conditions
- right-side sciatica, right distal third finger fracture
- How they argued it
- Direct service connection
- Exposure basis
- None
- Rating assigned
- None in this decision
- Decision date
- November 19, 2019
- Citation
- 19186516
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.
- 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.
- Granted
The Board granted service connection for myasthenia gravis based on the Veteran's exposure to hazardous substances during his military service.
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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.