Citation Nr: 20021758 Decision Date: 03/26/20 Archive Date: 03/26/20 DOCKET NO. 18-52 322 DATE: March 26, 2020 REMANDED Entitlement to an initial compensable rating for bilateral hearing loss is remanded. REASONS FOR REMAND The Veteran served on active duty with the United States Army from May 1968 to May 1970. This matter comes to the Board of Veterans’ Appeals (Board) on appeal from an April 2018 rating decision by a Regional Officer (RO) of the United States Department of Veterans Affairs (VA). In September 2017, the Veteran underwent audiological testing at a VA facility for the purpose of receiving hearing aids. Full results of the testing are not reported, but those which are indicate results slightly worst than those shown on the March 2018 VA examination. Obtaining the full results is required in order to ensure consideration of a complete disability picture. In March 2018, the Veteran received a VA hearing loss examination. During this testing, the Veteran’s Maryland CNC Word List test results showed results of 100 percent in the right ear and 92 percent in the left ear. The Veteran received corresponding puretone threshold audiometric testing. Additionally, given the difference in results, it is advisable to secure an updated VA examination. Accordingly, updated VA treatment records should be obtained, to include any VISTA images and full audiometry results. The matters are REMANDED for the following action: 1. Associate with the claims file complete VA treatment records, to include any VISTA images and full audiometry results. Results from the September 2017 consultation must be specifically requested. 2. Schedule the Veteran for a VA audio examination. The examiner must conduct appropriate testing and describe in full the current status of the service-connected hearing loss. 3. Thereafter, readjudicate the remanded issue. If the benefit sought remains denied, the Veteran should be provided with a supplemental statement of the case. The case should then be returned to the Board for appellate review if otherwise in order. WILLIAM H. DONNELLY Veterans Law Judge Board of Veterans’ Appeals Attorney for the Board S.P. Faris The Board’s decision in this case is binding only with respect to the instant matter decided. This decision is not precedential and does not establish VA policies or interpretations of general applicability. 38 C.F.R. § 20.1303.