Jim:

I have had prostate cancer and I have had surgery. My PSA level is below 1 now. I have been receiving 100% temporary compensation for 11 months now. I had my first C and P five months ago and was given another 6 months of 100% because they found my cancer as still being active due to some blood tests they ran on me. I am due another C and P next month but have not been notified yet. It was also noted on my last C and P that i had Urinary Incontinence.

My question: If and when I am taken off the temporary compensation will I be awarded a lower % because of the incontinence automatically or do I have to file another claim to get that.

I did file and am receiving compensation for ED

Reply:

When you have that next C & P exam, the examiner will make notes about residual effects of the surgery like incontinence. That report will go to the regional office where a decision will be made about any further rating. You don't need to file anything else.

The rating for erectile dysfunction is a Special Monthly Compensation (SMC) benefit and it won't be changed during this process.

You may want to read more about Vietnam veterans and prostate cancer by clicking http://www.vawatchdog.org/prostate-cancer.html