In the following video, Leah Bucholz discusses kidney disease and veterans disability. She explains the complexities of kidney-related issues, exploring the types of kidney diseases, their connection to military service, and how the VA rates and compensates veterans for these conditions.
What is Kidney Disease?
Kidney disease is a severe medical condition that can significantly impact an individual’s overall health and well-being. For many veterans, being service-connected for kidney disease indicates that their kidney function has been impaired, affecting the body’s ability to functionally filter blood and often, to control blood pressure.
Types of Kidney Disease
There exists a multitude of kidney disorders that can be service-connected and related to VA disability. These disorders may arise from active duty service, exposure to substances such as Agent Orange, or as secondary conditions to other service-connected disabilities. Leah Bucholz highlights how high blood pressure can lead to kidney disease. The spectrum of kidney diseases includes kidney cancers, diabetic kidney disease for those rated for diabetes, and various impairments with a wide range of manifestations.
VA Disability Ratings for Kidney Disease
Understanding how the VA rates kidney disease is crucial for veterans seeking compensation. The 38 Code of Federal Regulations, specifically the section on the genital urinary system, outlines the ratings for dysfunction and diagnoses related to kidney conditions.
Ratings for Dysfunction
The VA provides different percentage ratings for renal dysfunction, which is synonymous with kidney dysfunction. These ratings consider factors such as whether the veteran is on dialysis and the presence of voiding dysfunctions related to other non kidney related conditions like benign prostatic hyperplasia (BPH). It’s essential to note that dysfunction in the genital urinary system isn’t exclusive to the kidneys; issues with other organs like the bladder and ureters are also considered.
Ratings for Specific Diagnoses
Apart from rating based on dysfunction, the VA also considers specific diagnoses related to kidney conditions. This includes conditions such as chronic pyelonephritis, kidney infections, kidney stones, stricture of the ureter, cystitis, and more. Veterans are encouraged to explore whether these conditions were diagnosed during active duty or if they are secondary to other service-connected disabilities.
Importance of Diagnosis and Service Connection
Understanding the specific diagnosis and its connection to military service is crucial for veterans seeking disability benefits. Whether the condition was diagnosed during active duty or is secondary to another service-connected disability can significantly impact the claims process. This information becomes particularly relevant when exploring presumptive conditions, such as those related to Agent Orange exposure, where prostate cancer may lead to functional abnormalities, affecting the genital urinary system.
Conclusion
In conclusion, kidney disease and related issues are complex, and veterans need to be well-informed about the intricacies of the VA disability rating system. The 38 Code of Federal Regulations provides a comprehensive guide for understanding how the VA assesses and compensates for kidney conditions. Consulting with a VA accredited legal professional like a VSO, accredited claims agent or an attorney may prove beneficial in navigating these complex matters. By being aware of the specific diagnoses and their connections to military service, veterans can navigate the claims process more effectively and ensure they receive the compensation they deserve for the sacrifices made during their service.
Also read: Hypertension and Veterans Disability
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