VA Disability Rating for Post-Gastrectomy Syndrome

VA Disability Rating for Post-Gastrectomy Syndrome

Posted On: Oct 03, 2023

Post-Gastrectomy Syndrome, also commonly known as PGS, is a syndrome that can be problematic and affects many facets of the life of the patient.

Veterans coping with PGS need to understand the VA disability ratings in order for them to get the help that is rightfully theirs.

What is Post-Gastrectomy Syndrome?

Post-Gastrectomy Syndrome is a group of side effects seen by patients who have had their stomachs surgically removed. Nutritional shortages, gastrointestinal problems, and metabolic alterations may have a devastating impact on a veteran's quality of life.

VA Disability Ratings Explained

Diagnostic Code 7308 is the VA's disability rating code for Post-Gastrectomy Syndrome. The severity of the condition and its effect on a person's daily life are considered when assigning a rating to this code.

  • Mild (20%): Characterized by occasional moderate circulation symptoms or persistent mild epigastric discomfort.
  • Moderate (40%): Epigastric disorders occur less often, and modest circulatory sensations appear after eating to illustrate it. The intermediate level is also affected by diarrhea and weight loss.
  • Severe (60%): Nausea, sweating, circulatory disturbances after meals, diarrhea, hypoglycemia symptoms, weight loss, malnutrition, and anemia are all symptoms linked to this severity rating.

Key Factors in VA Disability Ratings for PGS

  1. Digestive Impairments: Veterans who have PGS and suffer from digestive issues may be eligible for disability payments. Weight loss, malnutrition, and other symptoms of poor absorption are included in the final rating.
  2. Nutritional Deficiencies: Problems due to eating are common with PGS. A greater disability rating may be warranted if a veteran is suffering from nutritional deficiencies.
  3. Impact on Daily Life: The Veterans Administration considers how PGS impacts a veteran's capacity to function. There may be an increase in a person's disability rating if the condition severely limits their ability to function.
  4. Medical Evidence: Accurate documentation from medical staff is necessary. The diagnosis, symptoms, and treatment history documented in a patient's medical records will be very helpful to the VA when making a decision.

Navigating the Claim Process

  • Consultation with Healthcare Providers: Consult with medical professionals who have experience with PGS for advice. Their knowledge and experience will help you by providing detailed evidence of your condition.
  • Complete and Accurate Documentation: Make sure your health records fully and properly reflect how PGS has affected your health. Things like diagnoses, treatment plans, and visits to a doctor's specialty all fall under this category.
  • Filing a Claim: Include a detailed description of how PGS interferes with your daily life in your VA disability claim. To help enhance your argument, provide concrete instances that may include any relevant medical data you may have.

Concluded Recommendation

Post-Gastric-Resection Syndrome disability ratings by the VA may be tricky to navigate without the right plan. Veteran disability ratings may be improved by focusing on digestive problems, nutritional inadequacies, everyday life effects, and reliable medical proof.

Seeking help from healthcare specialists and knowing the correct procedure is crucial to getting the compensation ratings and support you need to survive.