Citation Nr: 21008321
Decision Date: 02/16/21	Archive Date: 02/16/21

DOCKET NO. 15-06 321
DATE: February 16, 2021

REMANDED

Entitlement to an initial rating in excess of 10 percent for a psychiatric disability is remanded.

REASONS FOR REMAND

Entitlement to an initial rating in excess of 10 percent for psychiatric disability

In August 2020, a private psychologist opined that the psychiatric symptoms resulted in total occupational and social impairment.  The psychiatrist stated that PTSD symptoms caused significant emotional distress and total impairment in interpersonal and occupational functioning by limiting the Veteran’s ability to leave the home, interact appropriately with co-workers and customers, make friends, establish intimate relationships, and maintain employment.  The psychiatrist stated that the Veteran was anhedonic, experienced very little pleasure, had anxiety attacks twice a week, had no energy or motivation, rarely showered or shaved, had poor attention and concentration, and often lacked concentration.  The psychiatrist stated that the Veteran had suicidal ideation and had responded minimally to intervention.  

The Board finds that evidence suggests that the psychiatric disability has increased in severity.  Remand is required for a more current VA examination.

Accordingly, the claim is remanded for the following development:

Schedule the Veteran for a VA examination of a psychiatric disability with a psychologist or psychiatrist.  The examiner must review the claims file and should note that review in the report.  The examiner should opine as to the levels of occupational and social impairment due to the service-connected psychiatric disability and should describe the symptoms, and their frequency, duration, and severity, that cause those levels of occupational and social impairment.  The examiner should specifically opine whether it is at least as likely as not (50 percent or greater probability) that the Veteran has total social impairment or total occupational impairment.  The examiner should reconcile the opinion with that of the August 2020 private examiner.

 

 

Harvey P. Roberts

Veterans Law Judge

Board of Veterans’ Appeals

Attorney for the Board	Department of Veterans Affairs

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 This decision is not precedential and does not establish VA policies or interpretations of general applicability. 38 C.F.R. § 20.1303.