Case 240517-440505: Psychiatric
DecisionVeterans-appeals decision document (court public records) · May 30, 2025 · REASONS AND BASES FOR FINDINGS AND CONCLUSIONS
Conditions Claimed
PsychiatricBackSleep ApneaHipAnkleHeartRespiratoryArthritisRadiculopathyProstate
Official 2026 VA monthly compensation, including the 2.8% COLA increase.
Dependent add-ons start at a 30% rating. Child-only and dependent-parent rates: see the full 2026 pay chart.
2026 base rates, all ratings (veteran alone)
| Rating | Monthly (2026, incl. 2.8% COLA) |
|---|---|
| 10% | $180.42 |
| 20% | $356.66 |
| 30% | $552.47 |
| 40% | $795.84 |
| 50% | $1,132.90 |
| 60% | $1,435.02 |
| 70% | $1,808.45 |
| 80% | $2,102.15 |
| 90% | $2,362.30 |
| 100% | $3,938.58 |
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Issues on Appeal
PsychiatricBackSleep ApneaHipAnkleHeartRespiratoryArthritis
Why It Was Decided This Way
Continuity of symptomatology may be shown by demonstrating "(1) that a condition was 'noted' during service or any applicable presumption period; (2) evidence of post-service continuity of the same symptomatology; and (3) medical or, in certain circumstances, lay evidence of a nexus between the present disability and the post-service symptomatology.
When evaluating the evidence and rendering a decision on the merits, the Board is required to assess the credibility and probative value of proffered evidence in the context of the record as a whole.
428, 435 (2011), as to the specific issue in this case, a diagnosis and nexus between the diagnosis and active service is outside the realm of common knowledge of a lay person.
In the absence of a nexus, the claim for service connection for lumbar spine disability is denied.
Notwithstanding, the Veteran may still prevail in his claim if the medical evidence establishes a causal link, or nexus, between his exposure to herbicides and/or contaminated water at Camp Lejeune and his diagnosed COPD or, in the alternative, between the COPD and active service.
In the absence of a nexus, the claim for service connection for a long condition is denied.
Notwithstanding, the Veteran may still prevail in his claim if the medical evidence establishes a causal link, or nexus, between his exposure to herbicide agents and contaminated water and his diagnosed COPD or, in the alternative, between the claimed COPD and active service.
The examiner stated that the medical literature revealed 'no' definitive or quantitative studies showing a specific chemical exposure etiology, direct physical link or association, or research date studies to support a direct, valid or plausible nexus to the 'respiratory condition of sleep apnea and exposure to TERA due to military service in the CLNC and/or RVN regions.
Authorities Cited
Regulations Cited (38 CFR / 38 USC)
Denial Type
Credibility|No Nexus|Inadequate Exam
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