Question:

Jim, Served in Vietnam and was rated at 100% for wounds and other problems. About 2 years ago, I had to have my gall bladder and right kidney removed. The VA gave me 60% for the kidney but no benefit for loss or loss of use of my kidney. I have seen the term " Special Consideration" used for a kidney, but have been declined any benefit for my loss. I am due to have surgery on my lone kidney on Friday. Any comments or concerns would be appreciated.

Jim's Reply:

I'm afraid I don't understand your message? You're rated 100% but I don't know what those ratings are or how they might break down. The removal of the gall bladder and kidney may or may not be service connected. You say that, "VA gave me 60% for the kidney but no benefit for loss or loss of use of my kidney", and that sort of conflicts with itself. Ultimately any disability benefit will depend on the claimed disabling condition as being service connected. If your gall bladder and kidney disease were service connected, you should be rated accordingly. If these conditions aren't service connected, there won't be any ratings beyond the 100% you have.