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VA Disability by MOS: How Combat Medics Can Leverage Their Claims

How Combat Medics Can Leverage Their MOS for VA Disability Claims

Combat medics, also known as healthcare specialists, play a critical role in the military by providing medical care on the battlefield. Their unique position exposes them to a variety of physical and mental stressors that can lead to long-term health issues. Understanding how to leverage the Army military occupational specialty (MOS) designation of combat medics for Veterans Affairs (VA) disability claims can be crucial in securing the benefits they deserve. Leah Bucholz highlights key points from the MOS smartbook and provides practical advice on how to articulate the demands of the combat medic role to support a VA disability claim.

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Understanding the Combat Medic MOS

Overview of the 68 Series MOS

The 68 Series MOS, specifically 68W (68 Whiskey), encompasses healthcare specialists and combat medic specialists in the U.S. Army. 68Ws are certified as Emergency Medical Technicians (EMTs) by the National Registry of Emergency Medical Technicians (NREMT). However, their scope of practice frequently extends beyond that of civilian EMTs. Combat medics must complete 10 weeks of Basic Combat Training (BCT) before moving on to Advanced Individual Training (AIT), which typically spans 16 weeks at Fort Sam, Houston. A combat medic specialist is trained to administer emergency medical care and treatment on the battlefield, a role that demands a high level of physical fitness, mental resilience, and medical expertise.

Duties and Physical Demands of Combat Medics: Emergency Medical Treatment

Combat medic specialists are responsible for a range of tasks that are physically demanding and require precise skills, including the ability to administer emergency medical care. According to the MOS smartbook, key responsibilities and physical requirements include:

Physical Demands of a Combat Medic Specialist

  • Possessing finger dexterity in both hands: Essential for tasks such as administering IVs and drawing blood.
  • Handling exposure to blood: Medics must be comfortable working in environments where they are frequently exposed to blood and other bodily fluids, especially in combat situations.
  • Providing guidance and assistance verbally: Effective communication is crucial, particularly during mass casualty events where medics must give clear instructions under pressure.
  • Lifting and carrying heavy loads: Medics often need to lift and carry patients, sometimes up to 180 pounds, as part of a four-soldier team. They must also be able to lift 60 pounds individually and carry it short distances.

Other Key Responsibilities 

In addition to providing frontline emergency medical care, casualty evacuation, and primary care during combat and operational deployment, a combat medic specialist performs key duties like:

  • Outpatient and Inpatient Care: Assist in treating patients, prepare for surgery, and manage medical supplies.
  • Preventive Medicine and Hygiene: Support force health protection and oversee hygiene programs.
  • Leadership and Training: Train and supervise junior medics, conduct first aid training, and provide medical advice to the command.
  • Medical Operations Management: Manage medical evacuation operations and operate high-pressure chambers.
  • Versatility in Combat and Non-Combat Scenarios: Participate in specialized missions like search and rescue, demonstrating critical importance in various roles.

These responsibilities underscore the physical and mental challenges that combat medics face, making it essential to consider these factors when filing a VA disability claim.

Common Workplace Environments for 68Ws

A 68W or Army Combat Medic can be assigned to various units after completing Advanced Individual Training (AIT), based on the Army’s needs. Common assignments for 68Ws include Armored Brigades, Artillery Brigades, Combat Aviation Brigades (with Flight Medic roles), Infantry Brigades, Medical Brigades, and Military Entrance Processing Stations. These diverse roles reflect the widespread demand for medical personnel across the Army.

Leveraging the MOS Smartbook for VA Disability Benefits Claims

Importance of the MOS Smartbook

The MOS smartbook is a valuable resource for veterans seeking to substantiate their VA disability claims. It provides detailed descriptions of the medical training required for combat medics. It also provides detailed descriptions of the duties and physical requirements associated with each MOS, which can be used to illustrate how a veteran’s military service has contributed to their current health conditions.

Connecting Duties to Health Issues

For veterans filing a VA disability claim, it may be helpful to understand the tasks outlined in the MOS smartbook and the health issues or any injury they may be experiencing. Combat medics are responsible for ensuring health protection and evacuation for individuals experiencing injuries or illnesses on the battlefield. For example:

  • Back and Knee Pain: Highlight the frequent lifting and carrying of heavy loads, as well as the need to crouch and bend during patient care. These activities can lead to chronic musculoskeletal issues.
  • Hearing Loss: Note the exposure to loud noises, such as those from rotary-wing aircraft if you were stationed at a base with frequent helicopter use. Even if the noise exposure is categorized as moderate in the MOS smartbook, personal experiences and specific deployment circumstances can demonstrate higher levels of exposure.
  • Mental Health Conditions: Discuss the high-stress environments and the psychological toll of providing medical care under combat conditions. This can support claims related to PTSD, anxiety, and other mental health disorders.

Providing Specific Examples

Providing specific examples from your service that align with the job duties listed in the MOS smartbook may be helpful. For instance:

  • Patient Transport: Describe instances where you had to lift and transport injured soldiers, detailing the weights involved and the distances covered.
  • Combat Situations: Explain your role in treating casualties during combat, emphasizing the physical and emotional strain of these experiences.
  • Training Exercises: Mention any training exercises that involved repetitive physical tasks, such as carrying equipment or performing medical procedures under simulated combat conditions. Combat medics undergo advanced individual training after basic combat training, which includes detailed instruction and practical experience in emergency medical procedures.

Navigating the VA Disability Claims Process for Combat Medics

Gathering Evidence

Collecting thorough evidence may be crucial for those pursuing a VA disability claim. The skills acquired during military medical training can be applied in various civilian healthcare settings, including civilian hospitals. This includes:

  • Service Records: Obtain copies of your service records, including any documentation of medical treatment received during your service.
  • Medical Records: Provide records of any medical treatment received after your service that relates to your claimed conditions. This can include doctor’s notes, diagnostic tests, and treatment plans.
  • Buddy Statements: Statements from fellow service members can corroborate your account of the duties you performed and the conditions you experienced.

Conclusion

Combat medics play a vital role in the military, primarily by providing emergency medical treatment at the point of wounding on the battlefield. Their service often involves significant physical and mental challenges. Leveraging the MOS smartbook to support VA disability claims can help ensure that the sacrifices made by these veterans are recognized and that they receive the benefits they deserve. By clearly linking their health issues to the demands of their MOS, providing specific examples, and gathering comprehensive evidence, combat medics may be beneficial for those seeking VA disability benefits.

Also read: Hip Pain Secondary to Back Pain in VA Disability

At Prestige Veteran Medical Consulting, a veteran-owned company, we specialize in Independent Medical Opinions (IMOs) known as Nexus letters.

Our purpose is to empower YOU, the veteran, to take charge of your medical evidence and provide you with valuable educational tools and research to guide you on your journey.

Understanding the unique challenges veterans face, our commitment lies in delivering exceptional service and support.

Leveraging an extensive network of licensed independent medical professionals, all well-versed in the medical professional aspects of the VA claims process, we review the necessary medical evidence to incorporate in our reports related to your VA Disability Claim.

Prestige Veteran Medical Consulting is not a law firm, accredited claims agent, or affiliated with the Veterans Administration or Veterans Services Organizations. However, we are happy to discuss your case with your accredited VA legal professional.

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Danielle McClaskey

Client Relations Specialist U.S. Navy Veteran

In her active-duty service in the United States Navy, Danielle undertook a variety of responsibilities, ranging from essential administrative duties to providing crucial medical care. Her multifaceted contributions played a pivotal role in enhancing her fellow service members’ operational effectiveness and well-being.

As a disabled veteran, she developed a profound understanding of the unique challenges faced by her fellow service members. Now, in her civilian role, Danielle is a valued member of the Prestige Veteran Medical Consulting team, where she continues to leverage her extensive background and educational achievements to provide exceptional support to veterans.

Leticia

LETICIA

ADMINISTRATIVE ASSISTANT

Leticia has been in the medical field for nearly 14 years. She has always had a passion for medicine and caring for her community. Leticia has spent the last 4 years caring for veterans and first responders with alcohol and substance abuse in a medical rehabilitation setting whilst continuing her education working towards a degree in software development.

Someday she hopes to develop medical software that further enhances the patient’s experience in medical care. Leticia has a deep respect and love for those who have served as she comes from a family of law enforcement and military veterans.

Alan Bucholz

ALAN BUCHOLZ, PA-C:

U.S ARMY VETERAN, CHIEF FINANCIAL OFFICER

Alan enlisted in the US Army as a combat medic, where he deployed in support of Operation Iraqi Freedom.
Influenced by his time as a combat medic, he attended the Interservice Physician Assistant program while on
active duty, was commissioned as an officer, and subsequently deployed to Afghanistan.  

Alan’s military and medical background inspired him to form Prestige Veteran Medical Consulting with his
wife, Leah Bucholz, a Physician Assistant and Army Combat Veteran.  He has devoted himself to using his
knowledge gained in the military as a medical professional to serve the Veteran community.

Alan Bucholz

ALAN BUCHOLZ, PA-C:

U.S ARMY VETERAN, CHIEF FINANCIAL OFFICER

Alan enlisted in the US Army as a combat medic, where he deployed in support of Operation Iraqi Freedom.
Influenced by his time as a combat medic, he attended the Interservice Physician Assistant program while on
active duty, was commissioned as an officer, and subsequently deployed to Afghanistan.  

Alan’s military and medical background inspired him to form Prestige Veteran Medical Consulting with his
wife, Leah Bucholz, a Physician Assistant and Army Combat Veteran.  He has devoted himself to using his
knowledge gained in the military as a medical professional to serve the Veteran community.

Julie Pereira

JULIE PEREIRA:

ADMINISTRATIVE ASSISTANT

During her Active-Duty time in the US Navy as a Hospital Corpsman, Julie provided medical administration
and patient care services in the field, the hospital, and base medical office settings.  This military medical and
administrative background has given Julie the hands-on experience and extensive knowledge necessary to
provide unparalleled service to her fellow Veterans through the Prestige Veteran Medical Consulting team.

Julie’s educational achievements include a Bachelor of Arts with a minor in Human Services and a pre-nursing associate in arts and science.

Julie has been inspired by her firsthand knowledge of navigating the VA Benefits process. She has dedicated
most of her adult life to serving Veterans through her knowledge derived from her military and civilian medical
education and training.

Jennifer Januta

JENNIFER JANUTA

U.S ARMY VETERAN, CHIEF OPERATIONS OFFICER

During her Active-Duty service in the Army, Jennifer supported various research efforts centered on combat casualty care and Soldier performance. Her military background gave her unique insights into veterans’ distinct challenges, ultimately inspiring her to join the Prestige Veteran Medical Consulting team.

Jennifer’s educational achievements include a master’s in molecular biology from George Washington University and a master’s in data science from Texas Tech University. Jennifer wholeheartedly dedicates herself to utilizing her knowledge and expertise gained from 15 years of healthcare experience to impact the well-being of those who have served positively.

Alan Bucholz

ALAN BUCHOLZ, PA-C:

U.S ARMY VETERAN, CHIEF FINANCIAL OFFICER

Alan enlisted in the US Army as a combat medic, where he deployed in support of Operation Iraqi Freedom.
Influenced by his time as a combat medic, he attended the Interservice Physician Assistant program while on
active duty, was commissioned as an officer, and subsequently deployed to Afghanistan.  

Alan’s military and medical background inspired him to form Prestige Veteran Medical Consulting with his
wife, Leah Bucholz, a Physician Assistant and Army Combat Veteran.  He has devoted himself to using his
knowledge gained in the military as a medical professional to serve the Veteran community.

Leah - Meet the Team

LEAH BUCHOLZ, PA-C

U.S ARMY VETERAN, MEDICAL EXPERT & FORMER C & P EXAMINER

Meet Leah, the founder, and leader of our organization. ​​A combat veteran herself, she understands the unique challenges veterans face, making her mission about much more than running a successful business. It’s about the opportunity to provide a legacy of exceptional service for our heroes.​

​“It is essential to remember that there is no greater honor than caring for service members on the battlefield. Continuing to care for Veterans after separation is an opportunity that I have been afforded to extend that care in this new battlefield related to service-incurred disabilities.”

Her inspiration comes from years of military experience working alongside her fellow servicemembers, particularly key leaders who have influenced her journey, applying their wisdom to her path. She values her team deeply, most of whom are also disabled combat veterans, each member a trusted individual sharing her vision.

 “Driven by passion and purpose, I aim to create a sustainable change that empowers veterans and future generations.”

Leah’s journey hasn’t been without challenges. From overcoming and living with her service-related disabilities to navigating work-life balance, she’s learned to face each hurdle head-on with resilience.  Like many of her veteran brothers and sisters, her early background consisted of limited resources and opportunities. Her military service has helped shape her into a steadfast leader, offering relatable inspiration to others.

Join us in celebrating Leah, a compassionate leader, and resilient veteran, driving our mission to serve those who served our nation.