Citation Nr: 18136166
Decision Date: 09/18/18	Archive Date: 09/18/18

DOCKET NO. 14-44 416
DATE:	September 18, 2018
REMANDED
Initial compensable rating for bilateral hearing loss is remanded.
REASONS FOR REMAND
The Veteran underwent a VA examination in September 2012 to assess the nature and etiology of his bilateral hearing loss.  At the April 2015 Board hearing, he testified that his hearing loss had worsened.  The Veteran should be afforded a VA examination to assess the current severity of his hearing loss.
The matter is REMANDED for the following action:
1. Schedule the Veteran for a VA audiological examination for the purpose of determining the severity of his bilateral hearing loss.  The Veteran’s Virtual folder should be reviewed in conjunction with the examination. 
The examiner shall perform an evaluation for hearing impairment as required by 38 C.F.R. § 4.85, which shall include a controlled speech discrimination test (Maryland CNC) and a puretone audiometry test. 
The examiner should elicit information from the Veteran regarding the functional effects or limitations associated with his bilateral hearing loss, to include any impacts on activities of daily living, to include occupational effects.  Please provide a comprehensive rationale for any discussion given.
 
Eric S. Leboff
Veterans Law Judge
Board of Veterans’ Appeals
ATTORNEY FOR THE BOARD	M.W. Kreindler, Counsel