The Veterans’ Affairs Schedule for Rating Disabilities (“VASRD”) is the magic wand behind the baffling rating decisions the Department of Veterans’ Affairs (“VA”) assigns to every veteran who applies for disability benefits. It is meant to help VA officials assess the impact of a veteran's disability on her or his life, and to help identify a compensation amount which accurately reflects that impact.
Like many things at the VA, the VASRD hasn’t been updated in a long, long time. Since 1945, in fact. So, the recent slew of changes is welcome.
The VA Updated the Rating Schedule for Eye Conditions, Gynecological Conditions, and Disorders of the Breast
While all the VA’s schedules underwent review, some of the most impactful changes can be found in the schedules for eye conditions, gynecological conditions, and disorders of the breast.
Diabetic Retinopathy, Retinal Dystrophy and Post-Chiasmal Disorders Added to Eye Conditions Schedule
Regarding eye conditions, the VA revised the general rating formula and added three new diagnostics: diabetic retinopathy, retinal dystrophy and post-chiasmal disorders.
Schedules for Gynecological Conditions and Disorders of the Breast Expanded to Include Female Sexual Arousal Disorder and Malignant and Benign Neoplasms
The schedule for gynecological conditions and disorders of the breast was expanded in several ways. First, new diagnostic codes for malignant and benign neoplasms were added.
Second, Female Sexual Arousal Disorder was added to the schedule -- a monumental win for equal treatment, considering men have always had access to benefits, including Special Monthly Compensation, for penile conditions.
How You Can Win Disability Benefits
If you are veteran with a service-connected disability, including but not limited to those discussed above, we encourage you to apply for benefits right away. If the VA denies your claim or assigns you an unacceptable rating, we may be able to help. With decades of experience working with veterans, we are confident we can win you the benefits you deserve. Once you receive your initial decision, send us a note or give us a call at (877) 629-1712 to discuss the possibility of an appeal.
