Citation Nr: 21014703 Decision Date: 03/15/21 Archive Date: 03/15/21 DOCKET NO. 17-01 361 DATE: March 15, 2021 REMANDED Entitlement to service connection for right ear hearing loss, to include as secondary to a service-connected right tympanic membrane perforation, is remanded. REASONS FOR REMAND Entitlement to service connection for right ear hearing loss, to include as secondary to service-connected right tympanic membrane perforation, is remanded. The Veteran currently is service-connected for residuals of a right tympanic membrane perforation incurred in service during a boxing match. The Veteran claims that currently diagnosed right ear hearing loss disability was directly caused by the service-connected right tympanic membrane perforation. In a September 2020 VA medical opinion, a VA examiner opined that a claimed tinnitus condition was related to the service-connected right tympanic membrane perforation. In the same examination report, although the examiner opined that the right ear hearing loss was not directly related to service, because the Veteran had essentially normal hearing at discharge. The examiner did not offer any opinion as to whether current right ear hearing loss was caused or aggravated beyond the normal progression by a service-connected right tympanic membrane perforation. Remand is necessary to schedule an additional examination. The matters are REMANDED for the following action: Schedule the Veteran for a VA audiology examination for right ear hearing loss disability. The examiner must review the claims file and should note that review in the report. In reviewing the record, the examiner should note the service medical records, the post-service treatment records, and the Veteran's lay statements regarding the onset and etiology of any right ear hearing disability. The examiner should note that the Veteran experienced a service-connected right tympanic membrane perforation during service. After a review of the record, an interview with the Veteran, and an examination, the examiner should offer the following opinions. (a.) Is the Veteran's right ear hearing loss at least as likely as not (50 percent or greater probability) related to service or any incident of service, to include claimed in-service acoustic trauma? (Continued on the next page)   (b.) Is the Veteran's right ear hearing loss at least as likely as not (50 percent or greater probability) due to or the result of the residuals of a service-connected right tympanic membrane perforation? (c.) Has the Veteran's right ear hearing loss been at least as likely as not (50 percent or greater probability) aggravated (worsened beyond the natural progression) by a service-connected right tympanic membrane perforation? Harvey P. Roberts Veterans Law Judge Board of Veterans’ Appeals Attorney for the Board T.M. Gillett 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.