Question:

My husband as a heart graft in 2009 an three Stein and heart valve replacement and still having issue, he got agent orange for heart graft.  how can we get the valve art of his vam connecion in rates. They haven't gave him but 30 percent on all his heart issue.

Jim's Reply:

Only the grafts that provide blood supply to the heart muscle is a reimbursed disability condition. Heart valves and stents are not service connected due to agent orange. The rating is based on how efficiently his heart is pumping and 30% may or may not be accurate. Your best bet is to obtain an IMO [independent medical opinion] and then apply for an increased benefit.