The Veteran's initial rating for IHD from July 1, 2013 to September 3, 2015 was denied as his symptoms did not meet the criteria for a disability rating in excess of 30 percent. From September 4, 2015 to July 10, 2016, he received a 60 percent rating based on his METs level and LVEF. However, from July 11, 2016 to February 12, 2019, the Veteran's condition did not meet the criteria for a disability rating in excess of 60 percent.
The deciding factor: The Veteran's METs levels were found to be greater than 5 but no greater than 7 METs with dyspnea and fatigue. His LVEF was recorded as 55-60% after his CABG surgery, which is within the range for a 60 percent rating.
- Claimed conditions
- Ischemic Heart Disease (IHD), status post coronary artery bypass graft (CABG)
- How they argued it
- Direct service connection
- Exposure basis
- None
- Rating assigned
- 30%
- Decision date
- January 2, 2020
- Citation
- 20000181
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.
- Remanded (sent back)
The Board remands the claims for service connection due to new and relevant evidence having been received since a previous denial.
- Granted
The Board granted earlier effective dates of January 16, 2002, for the grant of service connection for ischemic heart disease, diabetes mellitus type 2, and residuals of prostate cancer.
- Granted
The Veteran's service-connected disabilities, including ischemic heart disease and unspecified trauma, rendered him unable to secure and follow a substantially gainful occupation.
- Partly granted
The Veteran's left eye neuropathy was granted a 10% disability rating, and the 100% evaluation for ischemic heart disease (IHD) was restored.
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