Question:
Jim I was tested by cardiologist and diagnosed with IHD. I filed a claim in Feb of 2020 and was awarded a 30% after almost a year of waiting. While I was waiting for the decision, I had a heart attack and was stinted. I filed an additional claim for the heart attack and was denied. They said I was already getting a 30% comp. and the heart attack was not service related - even though the 30% is for A/O IHD. Should I have been given the 100% for 3 months for the heart attack?
Jim's Reply:
Welcome to the VA!
You will have to formally appeal. On appeal you may or may not receive a higher rating. The IHD rating is based on how well your heart is functioning, not by the number of procedures you have or how many bypass grafts, stents and so on. If you had a heart attack and the stent was placed before any major damage and scarring happened, 30% may still be appropriate.
Yes, you should have been rated at a 100% temporary status for the recuperative period and then assessed with another C & P exam before a more permanent rating was awarded. This is a common error and once again, you will have to file a formal appeal to get it corrected. Good luck.