Citation Nr: 21027203
Decision Date: 05/05/21	Archive Date: 05/05/21

DOCKET NO. 16-14 199
DATE: May 5, 2021

REMANDED

Entitlement to a compensable disability rating for the service-connected umbilical herniorrhaphy prior to March 10, 2016 is remanded.

Entitlement to a rating higher than 20 percent for the service-connected umbilical herniorrhaphy after March 10, 2016 is remanded.

REASONS FOR REMAND

The Veteran served on active duty in the Air Force from August 1980 to December 1984.

The Veteran appeals the denial of a compensable disability rating for the service-connected umbilical herniorrhaphy prior to March 10, 2016, and rating higher than 20 percent thereafter. In relation to his claim, the Veteran was last examined by VA in March 2016. Since that time, however, private treatment records in 2020 show treatment for chronic abdominal pain. Evidence has been submitted indicating that the Veteran's disability has worsened. In light of his more recent treatment records, the Board finds that the Veteran should be provided an opportunity to report for a VA examination to ascertain the current severity and manifestations of his umbilical herniorrhaphy. On remand, outstanding VA and private treatment records should also be obtained and associated with the file.

The matters are REMANDED for the following action:

1. Obtain and associate with the claims folder any outstanding VA and private treatment records.

2. Schedule the Veteran for a VA examination to ascertain the current severity and manifestations of his service-connected umbilical herniorrhaphy. Access to the electronic claims file must be made available to the examiner for review. In accordance with the latest worksheets for rating umbilical herniorrhaphy, the examiner is to provide a detailed review of the Veteran's pertinent medical history, current complaints and the nature and extent of his disability.

3. Thereafter, the AOJ should consider all of the evidence of record and readjudicate the issue on appeal. If any benefit sought remains denied, issue a supplemental statement of the case and allow the Veteran and his representative an opportunity to respond.

 

 

T. MAINELLI

Veterans Law Judge

Board of Veterans' Appeals

Attorney for the Board	T.S. Willie

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 This decision is not precedential and does not establish VA policies or interpretations of general applicability. 38 C.F.R. § 20.1303.