The Board has found that service connection for an acquired psychiatric disability, to include PTSD, depressive disorder, and adjustment disorder is denied. Service connection for hypertension, to include secondary to an acquired psychiatric disorder, is also denied. The Veteran's claim for a higher rating for residuals of larynx cancer must be remanded as there may have been an increase in severity since the last examination.
The deciding factor: The most recent VA examination was conducted in 2016 and evidence suggests that the Veteran’s disability may have increased in severity since then, necessitating a new evaluation.
- Claimed conditions
- {"condition_name":"Acquired psychiatric condition to include PTSD"}, {"condition_name":"Hypertension"}
- How they argued it
- Direct service connection
- Exposure basis
- None
- Rating assigned
- None in this decision
- Decision date
- November 13, 2020
- Citation
- 20073017
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.