The rating reduction from 60 percent to 30 percent for service-connected GERD with other non-surgical or non-infectious intestinal conditions, with constipation and diarrhea was improper. The Veteran's condition did not show actual improvement in daily living, thus restoration of the 60 percent rating is granted.
The deciding factor: The reduction from a 60% to a 30% disability rating for GERD with other non-surgical or non-infectious intestinal conditions was based on an interpretation that the Veteran's symptoms did not warrant a higher rating, as they were characterized by considerable impairment of health rather than severe impairment.
- Claimed conditions
- GERD (Gastroesophageal Reflux Disease), Constipation, Diarrhea
- How they argued it
- Direct service connection
- Exposure basis
- None
- Rating assigned
- 60%
- Decision date
- December 8, 2023
- Citation
- A23035202
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 A23035202.
What this means for you
A grant means the Board agreed the veteran was entitled to the benefit. Decisions like this show the kind of evidence and arguments that tend to succeed for claims like it.
What you can do next
Related decisions
Other Board decisions on a similar condition or argued the same way.
- Granted
The Veteran's GERD with constipation is rated at 30 percent effective September 3, 2024. Prior to this date, the rating was 10 percent.
- Remanded (sent back)
The Board has remanded the case due to a lack of opinion regarding whether the Veteran's IBS is related to his service, specifically Gulf War exposure. The VA will schedule an examination and provide an updated medical opinion.
- Granted
The Veteran is granted SMC at the (o) rate based on his service-connected disabilities, including PTSD and other conditions. He also meets the criteria for SMC at the (r)(1) level due to need for regular aid and attendance.
- Denied
The Veteran's claims for increased ratings for bilateral plantar fasciitis and IBS/GERD were denied as there was no evidence of severe health impairment or other symptoms warranting a higher rating.
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