The Veteran's claim for a compensable rating for fracture of the left hand fifth digit neck with apex dorsal angulation was denied as his disability is already rated at its maximum.,Service connection for bilateral hearing loss, back problems, hiatal hernia, and right and left knee problems were also denied due to lack of evidence linking these conditions to service.
The deciding factor: The Veteran's fracture of the left hand fifth digit neck is already rated at its maximum under DC 5230. The criteria for a compensable rating are not met as there is no additional functional impairment or pain that would warrant a higher rating.,There was insufficient evidence to establish service connection for bilateral hearing loss, back problems, hiatal hernia, and knee disorders due to the Veteran's failure to report for scheduled VA examinations.
- Claimed conditions
- fracture of the left hand fifth digit, bilateral hearing loss disability, back problems, hiatal hernia, right knee problems, left knee problems
- How they argued it
- Direct service connection
- Exposure basis
- None
- Rating assigned
- None in this decision
- Decision date
- March 10, 2026
- Citation
- A26021630
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 A26021630.
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 has granted service connection for tinnitus but has remanded the issue of service connection for bilateral hearing loss disability due to inadequate examination and reasoning.
- Remanded (sent back)
The Board has remanded the claims for service connection for multiple myeloma and back problems due to a duty to assist error. For multiple myeloma, the Veteran's exposure to asbestos is not verified. For back problems, an addendum opinion is needed to consider the Veteran's lay statements regarding her training-related injuries.
- Remanded (sent back)
The Board has remanded the Veteran's claims for service connection due to inadequate development of her exposure history and lack of adequate medical opinions. The case will be returned to the AOJ for further action.
- Granted
The Veteran's TDIU rating is granted with an effective date of March 15, 2017.
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