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Denied

The Veteran's initial disability rating for linear and nonlinear left index finger scars is denied as the evidence does not show that his scars meet or approximate the criteria for a higher rating.

The deciding factor: The VA examinations did not show that the Veteran’s left index finger scars are both painful and unstable, three or four in number that are either painful or unstable, or cover an area of at least 12 square inches but less than 72 square inches.

Claimed conditions
Linear and nonlinear left index finger scars
How they argued it
Direct service connection
Exposure basis
None
Rating assigned
10%
Decision date
March 17, 2021
Citation
21015364

This is a plain-language summary generated by AI from a public Board of Veterans’ Appeals decision. It can contain errors — always verify against the original. Look up the original decision on VA.gov (opens in a new tab) using citation 21015364.

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