Changes to Service-Related Disability Ratings and Definitions Can Complicate Veterans Benefits Applications

As Congressional representatives search for ways to improve and streamline veterans benefits applications and the Veterans Administration in the wake of the VA hospital scandal, some are examining the disability ratings system and how some veterans may have taken advantage of changing disability definitions.

Costs of veterans benefits for the VA’s disability program have doubled since 2002, and many believe that cost burden is due to relaxed standards of disability created to support veterans of Afghanistan and Iraq as they returned from their tours of duty. The Veterans Administration reportedly spends $50 billion per year on veterans disability benefits. Many Congressional representatives believe that the problem lies in an expanding definition of disability, which can include ailments that are not directly caused by combat.

For example, sleep apnea appears on the disability list. The condition affects around 10 million Americans and becomes more common with age. Sleep apnea can be caused by underlying conditions, but the condition itself is listed under the Veterans Administration disability rating system as 50% disability.

Another disease not directly related to combat is Type 2 diabetes; however, veterans who develop Type 2 diabetes while on a tour of duty receive a 100% disability rating, because the disease is chronic and requires constant management and several lifestyle changes. Around 400,000 veterans currently qualify to receive veterans benefits with this disease.

Veterans are “filing for the basic wear and tear of military service, not combat injuries,” Phillip Carter, a veterans expert at the Center for a New American Security, a nonpartisan think tank, said in an interview.

However, the expanded definition of disability requirements can help veterans with “silent illnesses” like post-traumatic stress disorder, or chronic problems brought on later in life by treating a minor injury. For example, Air Force veteran Roland Griggs dislocated his left shoulder in 1965 while in basic training. He was eventually deemed 10% disabled, but over the course of his service, he favored his right arm, and the wear and tear on that joint eventually required surgery. He also developed esophageal cancer, which he believes was caused by taking high doses of ibuprofen that caused acid reflux. Now, he wants to boost his disability rating, because many of his current medical conditions can be traced back to his military service.

“We can’t always look at numbers,” said Verna Jones, head of the American Legion office in Washington, D.C. “Replace those pens and calculators with some human kindness.”

The Strom Law Firm Can Help With Veterans Benefits and Disability Problems in South Carolina

If past problems with your records affect your ability to apply for Veterans Disability in the state of South Carolina, the attorneys at the Strom Law Firm can help. Veterans Disability can be complex.  Not understanding the basics and not having counsel can leave you in a bind.  We understand that you need your South Carolina Social Security benefits.  We will put our years of experience to work for you to ensure that you have the representation necessary to actively pursue your claim.  Call the South Carolina Veterans benefits attorneys at the Strom Law Firm today to discuss your Veterans Disability case today.  We will be glad to discuss any questions you may have during our free, confidential consultation.  Call the experienced attorneys at the Strom Law Firm at (803)252-4800.