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Presumptive Conditions and Veterans Disability

Presumptive Conditions and Veterans Disability

Leah Bucholz sheds light on a topic that often confuses many veterans—presumptive conditions and veterans disability. She will analyze what presumptive conditions are and focus into one specific category: disabilities that manifest within one year of separation from service.

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Understanding Presumptive Conditions

A presumptive condition refers to the development of an illness or injury related to military service, following specific timetables and locations. These conditions are ones that have been researched and found to be highly likely caused by certain situations during service.

Agent Orange and VA Disability

One of the well-known examples of presumptive conditions is associated with exposure to Agent Orange. If a veteran was exposed to this herbicide and develops a condition listed by the VA, such as diabetes, the VA automatically grants service connection for that condition. However, Agent Orange is not the only category; there are various presumptive lists, each addressing specific circumstances.

Presumptive Conditions Within One Year

Before delving into the details, it’s crucial to address a common misconception. Not every condition diagnosed within a year of separation will automatically be service connected. Veterans often mistake the timeline for a broader range of conditions, leading to confusion.

Exploring the VA’s List

To understand the conditions falling under presumptive status within one year, Bucholz advises a visit to the VA’s official website. A quick search for “VA presumptive conditions within one year” leads to a comprehensive list that veterans can review for themselves. The VA provides detailed information on disabilities that may make veterans eligible for benefits if they manifest within one year after discharge.

Eligibility Criteria

The conditions listed must be at least 10 percent disabling within the first year of discharge to be considered presumptively related to service. The 38 Code of Federal Regulations, often referred to as the VA Bible, outlines the rules and regulations governing these presumptive conditions. Veterans can access the complete list of covered illnesses on the VA’s website.

Understanding the Logic Behind Presumptive Conditions

Let’s explore specific conditions and explain the rationale behind their inclusion in the presumptive list.

Arthritis

Arthritis serves as a prime example. If a veteran develops arthritis evident in X-rays six or eight months after separation, despite not seeking medical attention during service, it may be deemed presumptively related to service. The tough culture within military units often discourages seeking medical attention, leading to conditions going untreated during service.

Other Examples

While arthritis is just one example, the list covers various conditions such as anemia, diabetes, Raynaud’s disease, and peptic ulcers. Veterans should take a look at the list to gain a better understanding of the conditions considered presumptive.

Conclusion

Leah’s insights provide valuable insight for veterans navigating the complex terrain of presumptive conditions and VA disability claims. It is essential for veterans to be informed about the specific conditions outlined by the VA, especially those manifesting within one year of separation. While not exhaustive, Leah aims to empower veterans to engage in informed discussions with their Veterans Service Officers (VSOs) or treating doctors, ensuring a smoother claims process. For further information, veterans are encouraged to explore the VA’s official resources and seek professional advice for their unique situations.

Also read: Veteran Testimonial from one of our outstanding clients!

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.