Episodes

3d ago

In this episode, we explore a common question among veterans: Can you own a business while receiving VA disability benefits? We break down how service-connected disability compensation interacts with entrepreneurship, what programs and resources exist to support veteran business owners, and what considerations to keep in mind if you’re thinking about starting or running your own company. From understanding the basics of VA benefit rules to exploring opportunities like the VR&E self-employment track and veteran-owned business certifications, this episode offers practical insight for veterans who want to build something of their own.

Dec 9

Working as a fueler or fuel systems specialist in the military often meant daily exposure to toxic chemicals , jet fuel vapors , and environmental hazards — all of which can lead to long-term health issues. In this episode, we explore the types of conditions that can result from fuel exposure, how to establish a VA service connection , and what steps veterans can take to strengthen their claims for benefits. Whether you fueled aircraft, vehicles, or storage systems, this episode will help you understand your options and what evidence you’ll need to get the compensation you deserve.

Dec 2

In this episode, we dive into how the VA approaches disability benefits for veterans living with bipolar disorder . From understanding the symptoms and rating system to learning how to tell your story effectively, we explore what every veteran should know about navigating the process with confidence and clarity. Join us as we discuss the real-life challenges veterans face when bipolar disorder impacts daily functioning, employment, and relationships — and what steps can help you better communicate those experiences to the VA.

Nov 25

🎙️ VA COLA 2026: What Veterans Need to Know About the New Cost of Living Increase Featuring Attorney Rebecca Demming (ProVet Legal) Episode Overview In this episode, we welcome back Attorney Rebecca Demming of ProVet Legal to break down the 2026 Cost of Living Adjustment (COLA) and what it means for veterans receiving VA disability benefits. With inflation still affecting household budgets, this year’s COLA increase is especially important. Rebecca helps us understand the numbers, the process behind the rate, and how veterans can maximize the value of their benefits in 2026. What You’ll Learn: What the 2026 COLA is and how it’s calculated How the COLA affects your monthly VA disability payments The projected or official rate for the 2026 increase How COLA ties into Social Security and other federal programs Why the COLA increase matters more than ever for disabled veterans Rebecca’s expert take on how to plan ahead for the increase Guest Spotlight: Rebecca Demming, Esq. Veterans Law Attorney | Founder of ProVet Legal Rebecca Demming returns with her deep knowledge of VA law and her passion for helping veterans understand their rights and benefits. Her firm, ProVet Legal, represents veterans across the country and specializes in appeals and disability compensation. Why This Episode Matters: Understanding the COLA increase can help veterans budget smarter and stay ahead of rising costs. This episode gives you the facts and expert insights you need to make informed decisions about your compensation and future planning. Key Takeaways: COLA increases are essential for keeping VA payments in line with inflation The 2026 adjustment takes effect in January and applies to all disability ratings Veterans can see meaningful income increases based on their rating Knowing how COLA works can help you project your future benefits Resources Mentioned: VA Disability Rates (VA.gov) Social Security COLA Information ProVet Legal: provetlegal.com Cost of Living Adjustment Explanation (SSA.gov)

Nov 18

Congestive Heart Failure (CHF) is a serious, often life-altering condition that affects many veterans — sometimes as a result of exposure, stress, or secondary conditions from military service. In this episode, we break down how the VA rates heart failure , what evidence supports a strong claim, and how to prove service connection for heart conditions. Whether your CHF is linked to ischemic heart disease, hypertension, or another service-connected illness, this episode will help you understand your options and how to pursue the compensation you deserve.

Nov 11

In this episode, we dive into Benign Prostatic Hyperplasia (BPH) — a common but often misunderstood condition affecting many veterans — and how it can qualify for VA disability compensation . BPH, also known as enlarged prostate , can cause significant urinary symptoms and affect daily life. While it’s common in aging men, veterans may experience it earlier or more severely due to service-related exposures, stress, or secondary conditions . We’ll explore how to establish service connection , what VA rating criteria apply, and how to build a strong claim or appeal . 🔍 Topics Covered: What Benign Prostatic Hyperplasia (BPH) is and how it affects veterans Common symptoms and complications (urinary frequency, urgency, nocturia, retention) How the VA rates BPH under the genitourinary system Establishing service connection for BPH: Direct service connection (diagnosed during service) Secondary to PTSD, hypertension, diabetes, or medications Importance of medical evidence and urology records How exposure to toxins or chemicals (burn pits, Agent Orange, etc.) can contribute Difference between BPH and prostate cancer for VA purposes Using nexus letters and Independent Medical Opinions (IMOs) Handling claim denials and filing appeals for BPH VA ratings percentages for urinary frequency, voiding dysfunction, and incontinence Tips for strengthening your BPH claim with lay statements and medical documentation 💡 Key Takeaways: BPH can qualify for VA disability benefits if it’s service-connected or secondary to another condition. The VA rates BPH based on symptom severity — not the diagnosis alone. Medical documentation and specialist opinions are crucial for a strong claim. Veterans exposed to toxins, stress, or certain medications may have a valid secondary connection. Don’t accept an initial denial — appeals with medical support often succeed. 🧾 Resources Mentioned: VA Schedule for Rating Disabilities (Genitourinary Conditions) Veterans Health Administration – Urology and Men’s Health Services Accredited VA Claims Agents and Legal Support 🎧 Tune In If You’re a Veteran Who: Has been diagnosed with BPH (enlarged prostate) Experiences urinary issues impacting quality of life Takes medications for PTSD, hypertension, or diabetes that could cause or worsen BPH Has had a VA claim denied for BPH or urinary problems Wants to understand how to increase or appeal your BPH rating

Nov 4

Many veterans struggle with mental health conditions that began during their time in uniform but were never formally diagnosed while they were serving. In this episode, we explore how those experiences are recognized and understood by the VA — even without an in-service diagnosis on record. We’ll talk about how symptoms, service experiences, and post-service medical evidence can help paint a clear picture of what you’ve been through, and why it’s important to share your story in a way that connects your military experience to your current mental health.

Oct 28

🧠 Episode Overview: In this episode, we take a deep look at amputations and VA disability benefits — including how the VA evaluates different types of limb loss, what compensation levels veterans can expect, and what additional support programs are available. Whether your amputation resulted directly from service, from a combat injury , accident , or as a secondary condition related to diabetes , vascular disease , or infection , understanding the VA rating system and available resources can help you get the benefits you’ve earned. We’ll also explore prosthetic care , adaptive housing , and Special Monthly Compensation (SMC) that may apply to your situation. 🔍 Topics Covered: Overview of amputation-related disabilities recognized by the VA Common causes of amputation in veterans Combat injuries, accidents, infections, diabetes complications, frostbite, vascular issues How the VA rates amputations (upper and lower extremities) Explanation of amputation levels and rating percentages Understanding Special Monthly Compensation (SMC) for limb loss How prosthetics and assistive technology factor into VA benefits Secondary service connection for complications (phantom pain, arthritis, depression, etc.) Navigating the VA claims process for amputation and limb loss Importance of medical evidence , nexus letters , and C&P exams Adaptive housing, vehicle, and clothing allowances for amputee veterans Appeal options for denied amputation claims 💡 Key Takeaways: Amputation is a highly compensable condition under the VA disability system. Veterans may qualify for additional Special Monthly Compensation (SMC) based on loss of limb function. Prosthetic care and adaptive support programs are available to help veterans regain independence. A strong nexus letter and thorough medical documentation are critical to support your claim. Even secondary amputations related to service-connected conditions (like diabetes or infections) can qualify for VA benefits. 🧾 Resources Mentioned: VA Schedule for Rating Disabilities (Amputation and Musculoskeletal Conditions) VA Prosthetics and Sensory Aids Service VA Special Monthly Compensation (SMC) Chart Adaptive Housing and Vehicle Grant Programs 🎧 Tune In If You’re a Veteran Who: Has experienced an amputation related to service or a service-connected condition Wants to understand how VA disability ratings work for limb loss Needs information on prosthetics, adaptive equipment, or SMC benefits Has faced a VA claim denial for amputation or related conditions Wants to learn how to maximize compensation and access VA resources

Oct 22

🧠 Episode Overview: In this episode, we take an honest and informative look at Alcohol Use Disorder (AUD) and how it affects veterans seeking VA disability benefits . Many veterans struggle with alcohol use after service — often as a result of PTSD , chronic pain , or other service-connected conditions . Yet, the VA’s approach to alcohol-related disabilities can be complex and confusing. We’ll break down how the VA evaluates and compensates alcohol use disorder, when it can be service-connected , and what kind of medical and psychological evidence you need to support your claim. 🔍 Topics Covered: Understanding Alcohol Use Disorder (AUD) and its impact on veterans How military service can contribute to alcohol dependence When alcohol use disorder can be service-connected Secondary to PTSD , depression , anxiety , or chronic pain Linked to self-medicating behaviors caused by service-connected disabilities VA’s policy on primary vs. secondary service connection for substance use How the VA rates mental health and substance-related disorders Importance of nexus letters and medical opinions in AUD claims Strategies for veterans denied due to “willful misconduct” language The VA appeal process for denied alcohol-related claims Available treatment and recovery programs through the VA How to document rehabilitation efforts and long-term recovery 💡 Key Takeaways: Alcohol Use Disorder can qualify for VA disability if it’s secondary to a service-connected condition. The VA often denies claims labeled as willful misconduct , but a strong medical nexus can change that. Linking AUD to PTSD, depression, or pain management can establish service connection. Medical evidence, lay statements, and treatment records are vital to a successful claim. Recovery efforts and ongoing treatment can demonstrate long-term impact and help strengthen your case. 🧾 Resources Mentioned: VA Mental Health Services – Substance Use Program National Center for PTSD – Substance Use and PTSD Guide Veterans Crisis Line (Dial 988, then Press 1) 🎧 Tune In If You’re a Veteran Who: Struggles with alcohol use or recovery after service Has been diagnosed with PTSD, depression, or anxiety and uses alcohol to cope Had a VA claim denied due to “substance abuse” or “willful misconduct” Wants to understand how secondary service connection applies to AUD Is looking for VA treatment programs or appeal guidance

Oct 21

🧠 Episode Overview: In this episode, we break down everything veterans need to know about glaucoma and VA disability benefits . Glaucoma is a serious eye condition that can cause permanent vision loss — and many veterans aren’t aware that it can be connected to their military service or service-connected conditions . We’ll cover how the VA rates glaucoma , what kind of medical evidence you need, and how to establish service connection —whether it’s primary , secondary , or related to exposure or injury during service. 🔍 Topics Covered: What glaucoma is and how it affects veterans Common causes and risk factors (including diabetes, hypertension, and eye trauma) How to file a VA claim for glaucoma Understanding service connection for glaucoma Primary service connection Secondary to conditions like diabetes , traumatic brain injury (TBI) , or hypertension How the VA rates vision loss and glaucoma What to expect during a C&P eye exam Importance of nexus letters and medical evidence Appealing a denied glaucoma VA claim 💡 Key Takeaways: Glaucoma can be a service-connected disability if properly documented. A strong nexus letter and thorough medical evaluation are crucial for approval. Veterans with existing service-connected conditions may qualify for secondary service connection . Don’t give up after a denial — appeals and medical rebuttals can turn your case around. 🎧 Tune In If You’re a Veteran Who: Has been diagnosed with glaucoma or other vision problems Is seeking VA compensation for vision loss Has had a claim denied for glaucoma or related eye conditions Wants to understand how secondary service connection works for eye conditions

Oct 15

Leah breaks down the VA’s Homeless Veterans Programs, highlighting how they provide housing, mental health support, substance abuse treatment, and employment opportunities to help veterans regain stability. She explains key initiatives like HUD-VASH, the GPD program, HCHV, and SSBF, while emphasizing the “housing first” approach as the foundation for recovery. Leah also shares personal insight on the importance of rebuilding community bonds after service, and underscores the role of partnerships with nonprofits, faith-based organizations, and local agencies. 🟥 Subscribe: https://bit.ly/472dW2p 🟦 Website: https://prestigeveteranmctx.com/ About: At Prestige Veteran Medical Consulting, a veteran-owned company, we specialize in Independent Medical Opinions (IMOs) known as Nexus letters. The purpose of this channel is to empower YOU, the veteran, to take charge of your medical evidence and provide you with valuable educational tools and research to guide you on your journey. Understanding the unique challenges veterans face our commitment lies in delivering exceptional service and support. Leveraging an extensive network of licensed independent medical professionals, all well-versed in the medical professional aspects of the VA claims process, we review the necessary medical evidence to incorporate in our reports related to your VA Disability Claim. Prestige Veteran Medical Consulting is not a law firm, accredited claims agent, or affiliated with the Veterans Administration or Veterans Services Organizations. However, we are happy to discuss your case with your accredited VA legal professional. ⚠️ DISCLAIMER This video is not medical or legal advice and should not be substituted for advisement from your VSO, accredited agent, or Attorney. #vadisability #va #veteransbenefits

Oct 14

Leah breaks down why so many veterans’ VA sleep apnea claims get denied and how to strengthen them. She explains what sleep apnea is, why it’s especially common among veterans, and the two main service connection paths—primary and secondary. Leah then highlights the top reasons for denials, including lack of a sleep study, missing or weak service connection, negative nexus opinions, obesity or other non-service-related factors, and weak supporting evidence. She emphasizes that denials aren’t the end of the road—strong medical opinions, buddy statements, and accredited legal help can often turn a case around. 🟥 Subscribe: https://bit.ly/472dW2p 🟦 Website: https://prestigeveteranmctx.com/ About: At Prestige Veteran Medical Consulting, a veteran-owned company, we specialize in Independent Medical Opinions (IMOs) known as Nexus letters. The purpose of this channel is to empower YOU, the veteran, to take charge of your medical evidence and provide you with valuable educational tools and research to guide you on your journey. Understanding the unique challenges veterans face our commitment lies in delivering exceptional service and support. Leveraging an extensive network of licensed independent medical professionals, all well-versed in the medical professional aspects of the VA claims process, we review the necessary medical evidence to incorporate in our reports related to your VA Disability Claim. Prestige Veteran Medical Consulting is not a law firm, accredited claims agent, or affiliated with the Veterans Administration or Veterans Services Organizations. However, we are happy to discuss your case with your accredited VA legal professional. ⚠️ DISCLAIMER This video is not medical or legal advice and should not be substituted for advisement from your VSO, accredited agent, or Attorney. #vadisability #va #veteransbenefits

Sep 30

Leah provides a focused breakdown of how hepatitis B and C can be service-connected for VA disability claims. She explains the basics of hepatitis, common ways veterans may have been exposed during service (such as air gun injections or pre-1992 blood transfusions), and the criteria needed for direct or secondary service connection, including the importance of a medical nexus. Leah also highlights VA rating criteria, C&P exam expectations, and useful strategies like gathering strong medical documentation, requesting nexus letters, and referencing VA fast letters. 🟥 Subscribe: https://bit.ly/472dW2p 🟦 Website: https://prestigeveteranmctx.com/ About: At Prestige Veteran Medical Consulting, a veteran-owned company, we specialize in Independent Medical Opinions (IMOs) known as Nexus letters. The purpose of this channel is to empower YOU, the veteran, to take charge of your medical evidence and provide you with valuable educational tools and research to guide you on your journey. Understanding the unique challenges veterans face our commitment lies in delivering exceptional service and support. Leveraging an extensive network of licensed independent medical professionals, all well-versed in the medical professional aspects of the VA claims process, we review the necessary medical evidence to incorporate in our reports related to your VA Disability Claim. Prestige Veteran Medical Consulting is not a law firm, accredited claims agent, or affiliated with the Veterans Administration or Veterans Services Organizations. However, we are happy to discuss your case with your accredited VA legal professional. ⚠️ DISCLAIMER This video is not medical or legal advice and should not be substituted for advisement from your VSO, accredited agent, or Attorney. #vadisability #va #veteransbenefits

Sep 24

Leah explains how veterans may qualify for VA disability compensation if they experience side effects from medications prescribed for service-connected conditions. She outlines what the VA recognizes under 38 CFR 3.310, provides real-world examples such as ulcers from NSAIDs, metabolic syndrome from antipsychotics, sexual dysfunction from SSRIs, and liver damage from anticonvulsants, and stresses the importance of proving secondary service connection with medical diagnoses, documentation, and nexus statements. Leah also highlights relevant medical literature, explains the potential for special monthly compensation or TDIU in severe cases, and warns about common pitfalls like failing to directly link symptoms to medications. 🟥 Subscribe: https://bit.ly/472dW2p 🟦 Website: https://prestigeveteranmctx.com/ About: At Prestige Veteran Medical Consulting, a veteran-owned company, we specialize in Independent Medical Opinions (IMOs) known as Nexus letters. The purpose of this channel is to empower YOU, the veteran, to take charge of your medical evidence and provide you with valuable educational tools and research to guide you on your journey. Understanding the unique challenges veterans face our commitment lies in delivering exceptional service and support. Leveraging an extensive network of licensed independent medical professionals, all well-versed in the medical professional aspects of the VA claims process, we review the necessary medical evidence to incorporate in our reports related to your VA Disability Claim. Prestige Veteran Medical Consulting is not a law firm, accredited claims agent, or affiliated with the Veterans Administration or Veterans Services Organizations. However, we are happy to discuss your case with your accredited VA legal professional. ⚠️ DISCLAIMER This video is not medical or legal advice and should not be substituted for advisement from your VSO, accredited agent, or Attorney. #vadisability #va #veteransbenefits

Sep 23

Leah explains how congenital birth defects intersect with VA disability benefits for both veterans and their children. She covers what congenital birth defects are, the conditions linked to toxic exposures like Agent Orange in Vietnam and Korea or contaminated water at Camp Lejeune, and when children may qualify for compensation or health benefits. Leah also highlights that veterans with congenital conditions can sometimes receive service connection if their condition was permanently aggravated by military service. She stresses the importance of strong medical evidence, proper documentation, and accredited representation, while warning against common mistakes such as assuming automatic approval or overlooking proof of service and biological parentage. 🟥 Subscribe: https://bit.ly/472dW2p 🟦 Website: https://prestigeveteranmctx.com/ About: At Prestige Veteran Medical Consulting, a veteran-owned company, we specialize in Independent Medical Opinions (IMOs) known as Nexus letters. The purpose of this channel is to empower YOU, the veteran, to take charge of your medical evidence and provide you with valuable educational tools and research to guide you on your journey. Understanding the unique challenges veterans face our commitment lies in delivering exceptional service and support. Leveraging an extensive network of licensed independent medical professionals, all well-versed in the medical professional aspects of the VA claims process, we review the necessary medical evidence to incorporate in our reports related to your VA Disability Claim. Prestige Veteran Medical Consulting is not a law firm, accredited claims agent, or affiliated with the Veterans Administration or Veterans Services Organizations. However, we are happy to discuss your case with your accredited VA legal professional. ⚠️ DISCLAIMER This video is not medical or legal advice and should not be substituted for advisement from your VSO, accredited agent, or Attorney. #vadisability #va #veteransbenefits

Sep 2

In this episode, we dive into the complex topic of Degenerative Disc Disease (DDD) and its role in VA disability claims . Veterans experiencing chronic back pain or spinal issues may be struggling with DDD, a condition that can significantly impact daily life and work. Whether you’re a veteran filing a claim or an advocate assisting others, this episode offers clarity on diagnosis, compensation, and common challenges in the VA claims process. 🩺 Topics Covered: What is Degenerative Disc Disease (DDD)? How military service can contribute to or aggravate DDD Key symptoms veterans experience How the VA evaluates and rates DDD Understanding secondary conditions linked to DDD (e.g., radiculopathy, depression) Tips for strengthening your VA disability claim The importance of medical evidence and C&P exams Appeals and common pitfalls Enjoying the podcast? Don’t forget to subscribe , rate , and leave a review ! If you or someone you know is struggling with DDD and needs help navigating the VA system, share this episode!

Aug 26

Cold weather injuries are more common among veterans than you might think—especially for those who served in harsh winter environments or lacked proper gear and protection. In this episode, we explore how conditions like frostbite, trench foot, chilblains, and cold-induced neuropathy may qualify you for VA disability benefits . You’ll learn how to recognize the long-term effects of cold exposure , how to link those injuries to your service, and what medical documentation the VA requires to approve your claim . We also break down VA rating criteria for cold injury residuals and share helpful tips for navigating C&P exams and appeals if your claim is denied. 📌 Topics Covered: Types of cold weather injuries recognized by the VA Long-term effects of frostbite, trench foot, and other cold exposure How to prove service connection for cold injuries What to expect from a VA C&P exam for cold-related conditions Secondary conditions linked to cold weather injuries (neuropathy, arthritis, etc.) VA rating schedule for cold injury residuals Tips for strengthening your claim with buddy statements and medical records Common reasons cold injury claims get denied—and how to respond cold weather injuries VA claim, frostbite VA disability, trench foot VA claim, cold injury residuals, VA disability rating cold exposure, veteran cold injury compensation, frostbite military service, VA neuropathy claim, cold injury service connection, VA C&P exam cold injury, long-term effects of frostbite, how to file VA claim cold injury 📣 Resources Mentioned: VA Cold Injury Residuals Rating Criteria VA C&P Exam Guide [Veterans Benefits Administration Cold Injury Fact Sheet] Buddy Statement Template for Cold Weather Injuries 🎧 Listen Now: If you served in extreme winter conditions or were exposed to freezing temps without proper protection, your injuries may be service-connected—and compensable. This episode gives you the knowledge and tools to move forward with confidence. 👉 Don’t forget to subscribe , share , and leave a review if you found this episode helpful!

Aug 19

Extreme heat isn’t just uncomfortable—it can be dangerous, especially for veterans who served in hot climates or during physically demanding deployments. In this episode, we break down how hot weather-related injuries like heat stroke, heat exhaustion, dehydration, and rhabdomyolysis can lead to lasting health conditions—and how they may qualify for VA disability compensation . We also explore the connection between heat injuries and other service-connected conditions such as kidney damage, cardiovascular issues, and chronic fatigue. If you've experienced heat-related trauma in service or now suffer from long-term effects, this episode explains how to build a strong claim and what documentation the VA looks for. 📌 Topics Covered: Common hot weather injuries experienced by service members How the VA evaluates heat-related conditions for disability ratings Chronic effects of heat stroke and rhabdomyolysis Linking kidney, heart, and muscle issues to heat exposure What medical evidence strengthens your VA claim Tips for navigating VA C&P exams for heat-related conditions How to file a secondary service connection for related issues How climate and location can factor into your VA case VA claim heat stroke, hot weather injuries VA disability, heat exhaustion military service, rhabdomyolysis VA claim, dehydration VA compensation, heat injury veterans, service-connected heat illness, VA disability rating heat injury, chronic fatigue VA claim, kidney damage military service, hot weather VA conditions 📣 Resources Mentioned: VA Disability Benefits for Environmental and Occupational Exposure [Military Medicine: Heat-Related Illness and Long-Term Impact Studies] How to Prepare for a VA C&P Exam 🎧 Listen Now: If you've served in extreme heat or suffered from heat-related injuries during your military service, this episode is packed with the essential info you need to protect your health and claim the benefits you deserve . 👉 Don’t forget to subscribe , leave a review , and share this episode with a fellow veteran who may need it! Need a version tailored for Instagram, LinkedIn, or email promotion? I’d be happy to help!

Aug 12

Struggling financially and not sure where to turn? In this episode, we uncover emergency cash resources available to veterans that many don’t even know they qualify for. From VA-backed financial relief programs to nonprofit grants and state-funded emergency aid, we walk you through real, accessible options that can help when money is tight. Whether you’re dealing with job loss, medical expenses, homelessness risk, or other sudden financial hardships, there may be emergency assistance waiting for you—no strings attached. We’ll also cover tips on how to apply, what documentation you need, and how to avoid scams. 📌 Topics Covered: What is considered a financial emergency under VA guidelines VA programs that offer emergency financial help Nonprofits and grants that provide cash aid to veterans Emergency housing and utility assistance Help for disabled veterans and caregivers Tips for speeding up your application process Common mistakes that delay emergency aid Warning signs of scams and predatory lenders emergency cash for veterans, VA financial assistance, veteran emergency aid, help for homeless veterans, VA hardship assistance, veteran crisis funding, emergency grants for veterans, disabled veteran financial help, veteran relief programs, VA cash assistance, veteran rent help, how to get emergency funds as a veteran

Aug 5

In this episode, we explore how PFAS exposure —commonly known as "forever chemicals" —may impact veterans and their VA disability claims . Found in firefighting foam (AFFF), contaminated water, and military bases, PFAS chemicals have been linked to serious health conditions like cancer, thyroid disease, and immune system disorders. We break down what PFAS are, where veterans may have been exposed during military service, and how to build a strong VA claim for service-connected illnesses linked to PFAS. You'll also learn about ongoing federal research, recent VA policy developments, and the steps to take if you think your illness is related to toxic exposure. 📌 Topics Covered: What are PFAS and why they’re called “forever chemicals” Common sources of PFAS exposure in military environments (e.g., AFFF firefighting foam) Health conditions linked to PFAS: cancer, kidney disease, reproductive issues, more How to file a VA disability claim for PFAS-related illness What evidence is needed to support your exposure claim Role of VA nexus letters and medical records Current VA stance and legislative updates on PFAS and toxic exposure Resources for veterans seeking legal or medical support VA Toxic Exposure Information CDC Information on PFAS PFAS Exposure Registry and Veterans Resources 🎧 Listen Now: If you or someone you know served on a base where PFAS exposure is likely, this episode is essential. We explain your options, how to start your claim, and where to find support. Don't forget to subscribe , share , and leave a review if you found this episode helpful! Would you like this version formatted for a blog post or social media preview next?

Jul 30

In this episode, we break down what veterans need to know about a VA disability claim for seizure disorders . Whether you're dealing with epilepsy, non-epileptic seizures, or service-connected neurological conditions, understanding how the VA rates seizures is crucial for securing the benefits you deserve. We’ll cover the different types of seizure disorders recognized by the VA, how VA rating percentages are determined, what medical evidence may support your claim, and how to handle VA C&P exams for neurological conditions. You’ll also learn about secondary service connection and how seizure disorders can be linked to other service-related conditions, including traumatic brain injuries (TBIs). 📌 Topics Covered: What qualifies as a seizure disorder for VA purposes How the VA assigns disability ratings for seizures Types of seizures (generalized vs. partial) and their impact on your claim The importance of medical documentation and seizure frequency How a VA nexus letter supports your case What to expect during a VA C&P exam for neurological conditions Filing a secondary claim for seizures related to TBIs or PTSD Common reasons seizure claims get denied and how to appeal

Jul 23

Leah offers a clear and compassionate overview of stroke and cerebrovascular disease in military veterans. As a veteran and former VA examiner, Leah explains why veterans face higher risks due to conditions like TBI, PTSD, and hypertension, and outlines how the VA evaluates and rates strokes, including temporary 100% disability ratings and residual effects like speech loss or paralysis. She highlights disparities in care, especially for rural, minority, and women veterans, while offering practical prevention strategies and emphasizing the importance of documentation and legal support. 🟥 Subscribe: https://bit.ly/472dW2p 🟦 Website: https://prestigeveteranmctx.com/ About: At Prestige Veteran Medical Consulting, a veteran-owned company, we specialize in Independent Medical Opinions (IMOs) known as Nexus letters. The purpose of this channel is to empower YOU, the veteran, to take charge of your medical evidence and provide you with valuable educational tools and research to guide you on your journey. Understanding the unique challenges veterans face our commitment lies in delivering exceptional service and support. Leveraging an extensive network of licensed independent medical professionals, all well-versed in the medical professional aspects of the VA claims process, we review the necessary medical evidence to incorporate in our reports related to your VA Disability Claim. Prestige Veteran Medical Consulting is not a law firm, accredited claims agent, or affiliated with the Veterans Administration or Veterans Services Organizations. However, we are happy to discuss your case with your accredited VA legal professional. ⚠️ DISCLAIMER This video is not medical or legal advice and should not be substituted for advisement from your VSO, accredited agent, or Attorney. #vadisability #va #veteransbenefits

Jul 16

Leah explains how female veterans can get VA disability compensation for endometriosis. She breaks down what endometriosis is, how it's rated by the VA, and what kind of medical evidence is needed to build a strong claim. Leah also covers primary vs. secondary service connection, the role of nexus letters, and the possible secondary conditions like depression, infertility, and chronic pain that can also be claimed. This video is a must-watch for women veterans navigating VA benefits for reproductive health issues.

Jul 15

Leah breaks down everything veterans need to know about rotator cuff injuries and how they relate to VA disability claims. As a U.S. Army veteran and former C\&P examiner, she explains the causes, symptoms, and medical evidence needed to support a claim, while also walking viewers through how the VA rates these shoulder conditions under diagnostic codes 5200–5203. With real data, expert insights, and actionable tips—like seeking a nexus letter and understanding the role of range-of-motion testing—Leah offers a clear, veteran-friendly guide to navigating the claims process with confidence.

Jul 1

Leah sits down with VA-accredited attorney Rebecca Deming to deliver an in-depth overview of how veterans can maximize their VA benefits for their families. They cover everything from who qualifies as a dependent, how to access healthcare options like CHAMPVA, and how to unlock education programs such as Chapter 35 and the GI Bill transfer. They also highlight lesser-known opportunities like the Hazlewood Act, Folds of Honor, caregiver stipends, and dependency indemnity compensation (DIC). With clear explanations and practical examples, this episode is a valuable resource for veterans and their families navigating the often confusing landscape of VA benefits. 🟥 Subscribe: https://shorturl.at/gIL1F 🟦 Website: https://prestigeveteranmctx.com/ 🟦Rebecca's Website: https://provetlegal.com/ About: At Prestige Veteran Medical Consulting, a veteran-owned company, we specialize in Independent Medical Opinions (IMOs) known as Nexus letters. The purpose of this channel is to empower YOU, the veteran, to take charge of your medical evidence and provide you with valuable educational tools and research to guide you on your journey. Understanding the unique challenges veterans face our commitment lies in delivering exceptional service and support. Leveraging an extensive network of licensed independent medical professionals, all well-versed in the medical professional aspects of the VA claims process, we review the necessary medical evidence to incorporate in our reports related to your VA Disability Claim. Prestige Veteran Medical Consulting is not a law firm, accredited claims agent, or affiliated with the Veterans Administration or Veterans Services Organizations. However, we are happy to discuss your case with your accredited VA legal professional. ⚠️ DISCLAIMER This video is not medical or legal advice and should not be substituted for advisement from your VSO, accredited agent, or Attorney. #vadisability #va #veteransbenefits

Jun 25

In this video, Leah B from Prestige Veteran Medical Consulting—an Army veteran and former compensation and pension examiner—explains everything veterans need to know about cataracts and VA disability benefits. She breaks down what cataracts are, how they may be caused or worsened by military service (such as through trauma, radiation, or steroid use), and the two paths to service connection: primary and secondary. Leah also details how the VA rates cataracts under diagnostic code 6027, the role of pre- and post-operative evaluations, and what documentation veterans should gather to support their claim—including medical records, lay statements, and physician opinions. She emphasizes the importance of CMP exams and encourages veterans to seek help from accredited professionals when filing or appealing claims. 🟥 Subscribe: https://bit.ly/472dW2p 🟦 Website: https://prestigeveteranmctx.com/

Jun 24

Leah breaks down exactly how VA telehealth services work and why they’re a game changer for veterans. She explains how virtual care makes it easier for vets to connect with providers, access appointments, manage chronic conditions, and get mental health support, no matter where they live. Leah shares real examples of using secure video visits, messaging through My HealtheVet, and remote monitoring devices, emphasizing the huge increase in telehealth use since the pandemic and how the VA now leads in virtual care. She highlights benefits like convenience, faster access to care, and privacy, while also addressing common questions about eligibility and getting started. 🟥 Subscribe: https://bit.ly/472dW2p 🟦 Website: https://prestigeveteranmctx.com/

Jun 18

Leah breaks down everything veterans need to know about Parkinson’s disease and VA disability, with a clear focus on ratings, connection, and benefits. She explains how Parkinson’s disease can be service-connected through direct, presumptive, or secondary pathways—especially for those exposed to Agent Orange, burn pits, or toxic chemicals during military service. Leah covers how the VA rates Parkinson’s (starting at 30% but often much higher when all symptoms are considered), what documentation is required to build a strong connection to service, and the wide range of benefits available—from monthly compensation to caregiver support, adaptive housing grants, and priority healthcare. 🟥 Subscribe: https://bit.ly/472dW2p 🟦 Website: https://prestigeveteranmctx.com/

Jun 17

Leah teams up with VA attorney Rebecca Deming to break down the often overwhelming process of filing a VA disability claim. Drawing on their extensive experience, they walk viewers through everything from basic eligibility, required documentation, and types of claims, to practical tips for filling out forms and what to expect after filing. The discussion highlights common mistakes, recent changes in VA procedures, and why it’s important to ask for help from free accredited sources like VSOs rather than paying unnecessary fees. With straightforward explanations, clear examples, and a focus on demystifying the system, this video is an invaluable guide for veterans who want to confidently start or improve their VA disability claim process. 🟥 Subscribe: https://bit.ly/472dW2p 🟦 Website: https://prestigeveteranmctx.com/ 🟦 Rebecca's Website: https://provetlegal.com/

May 28

Leah explains whether nexus letters are needed for VA presumptive conditions. She breaks down what presumptive conditions are, referencing official VA sources like exposure to Agent Orange, burn pits, and Camp Lejeune toxins, and clarifies that these conditions are generally assumed by the VA to be service-connected, meaning a nexus letter is *typically* not required. However, Leah points out important exceptions, such as unclear service dates, denied claims, or secondary conditions, where a nexus letter might still be helpful. She emphasizes the importance of working with accredited VA representatives and gives practical advice for veterans navigating the claims process. 🟥 Subscribe: https://bit.ly/472dW2p 🟦 Website: https://prestigeveteranmctx.com/ About: At Prestige Veteran Medical Consulting, a veteran-owned company, we specialize in Independent Medical Opinions (IMOs) known as Nexus letters. The purpose of this channel is to empower YOU, the veteran, to take charge of your medical evidence and provide you with valuable educational tools and research to guide you on your journey. Understanding the unique challenges veterans face our commitment lies in delivering exceptional service and support. Leveraging an extensive network of licensed independent medical professionals, all well-versed in the medical professional aspects of the VA claims process, we review the necessary medical evidence to incorporate in our reports related to your VA Disability Claim. Prestige Veteran Medical Consulting is not a law firm, accredited claims agent, or affiliated with the Veterans Administration or Veterans Services Organizations. However, we are happy to discuss your case with your accredited VA legal professional. ⚠️ DISCLAIMER This video is not medical or legal advice and should not be substituted for advisement from your VSO, accredited agent, or Attorney. #vadisability #va #veteransbenefits

May 27

Leah breaks down everything veterans need to know about getting VA disability benefits for COPD (Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease). She explains how COPD includes conditions like chronic bronchitis and emphysema, outlines symptoms, and dives into medical literature showing a strong connection between toxic military exposures (like burn pits or Agent Orange) and COPD—even in non-smokers. Leah details the VA rating system, diagnostic codes, necessary medical documentation (like pulmonary function tests), and strategies for building a strong claim. She also clarifies how COPD can be service-connected directly, secondarily, or presumptively, and encourages veterans to seek help from VSOs or accredited representatives if they’ve been denied. 🟥 Subscribe: https://bit.ly/472dW2p 🟦 Website: https://prestigeveteranmctx.com/ About: At Prestige Veteran Medical Consulting, a veteran-owned company, we specialize in Independent Medical Opinions (IMOs) known as Nexus letters. The purpose of this channel is to empower YOU, the veteran, to take charge of your medical evidence and provide you with valuable educational tools and research to guide you on your journey. Understanding the unique challenges veterans face our commitment lies in delivering exceptional service and support. Leveraging an extensive network of licensed independent medical professionals, all well-versed in the medical professional aspects of the VA claims process, we review the necessary medical evidence to incorporate in our reports related to your VA Disability Claim. Prestige Veteran Medical Consulting is not a law firm, accredited claims agent, or affiliated with the Veterans Administration or Veterans Services Organizations. However, we are happy to discuss your case with your accredited VA legal professional. ⚠️ DISCLAIMER This video is not medical or legal advice and should not be substituted for advisement from your VSO, accredited agent, or Attorney. #vadisability #va #veteransbenefits

May 21

Leah explains the crucial concept of favorable findings in VA disability claims. These are positive acknowledgments by the VA, such as confirmed diagnoses, in-service injuries, or credible lay statements, that remain on record even if a claim is denied. Leah walks viewers through how to find and interpret these favorable findings in their rating decision letters, why they’re valuable in appeals, and how they can guide future claims. With clear examples and practical advice, she empowers veterans to better navigate the often-confusing VA disability process and encourages working with accredited legal professionals to strengthen their case. 🟥 Subscribe: https://bit.ly/472dW2p 🟦 Website: https://prestigeveteranmctx.com/ About: At Prestige Veteran Medical Consulting, a veteran-owned company, we specialize in Independent Medical Opinions (IMOs) known as Nexus letters. The purpose of this channel is to empower YOU, the veteran, to take charge of your medical evidence and provide you with valuable educational tools and research to guide you on your journey. Understanding the unique challenges veterans face our commitment lies in delivering exceptional service and support. Leveraging an extensive network of licensed independent medical professionals, all well-versed in the medical professional aspects of the VA claims process, we review the necessary medical evidence to incorporate in our reports related to your VA Disability Claim. Prestige Veteran Medical Consulting is not a law firm, accredited claims agent, or affiliated with the Veterans Administration or Veterans Services Organizations. However, we are happy to discuss your case with your accredited VA legal professional. ⚠️ DISCLAIMER This video is not medical or legal advice and should not be substituted for advisement from your VSO, accredited agent, or Attorney. #vadisability #va #veteransbenefits

May 20

Leah and Rebecca Deming from Provet Legal dive deep into the topic of "pyramiding" in VA disability claims. They explain how the VA prevents veterans from receiving multiple ratings for the same symptoms, using real-world examples involving mental health, respiratory conditions, and TBI. The conversation is packed with practical insights on how to avoid rating mistakes, maximize benefits, and when to seek legal and medical support. It's a thorough, relatable guide for veterans who want to better understand the rating process and protect their rights. 🟥 Subscribe: https://bit.ly/472dW2p 🟦 Website: https://prestigeveteranmctx.com/ 🟦 Rebecca's Website: https://provetlegal.com/ About: At Prestige Veteran Medical Consulting, a veteran-owned company, we specialize in Independent Medical Opinions (IMOs) known as Nexus letters. The purpose of this channel is to empower YOU, the veteran, to take charge of your medical evidence and provide you with valuable educational tools and research to guide you on your journey. Understanding the unique challenges veterans face our commitment lies in delivering exceptional service and support. Leveraging an extensive network of licensed independent medical professionals, all well-versed in the medical professional aspects of the VA claims process, we review the necessary medical evidence to incorporate in our reports related to your VA Disability Claim. Prestige Veteran Medical Consulting is not a law firm, accredited claims agent, or affiliated with the Veterans Administration or Veterans Services Organizations. However, we are happy to discuss your case with your accredited VA legal professional. ⚠️ DISCLAIMER This video is not medical or legal advice and should not be substituted for advisement from your VSO, accredited agent, or Attorney. #vadisability #va #veteransbenefits

May 14

Leah breaks down the often-overlooked condition of Dry Eye Syndrome (DES) and its significant impact on veterans. She explains the symptoms, causes, and heightened prevalence of DES in the veteran population, especially among those with PTSD, depression, or who underwent refractive surgeries like LASIK or PRK during active duty. Leah supports her insights with peer-reviewed studies and provides practical advice on how veterans can pursue VA disability claims for DES, either as a primary or secondary condition. She emphasizes the importance of getting medical documentation, understanding legal nuances, and seeking support from accredited claims agents. This informative video aims to empower veterans with knowledge that could help them secure benefits they may not realize they’re entitled to.

May 13

Leah explores the potential connection between Alzheimer's disease and tinnitus in veterans, highlighting how both conditions—often overlooked as related—may actually share neurological links. Drawing from multiple scientific studies, Leah presents compelling evidence that tinnitus could be an early indicator or risk factor for cognitive decline and neurodegenerative diseases like Alzheimer’s and Parkinson’s, especially in veterans exposed to chronic stress and noise. She emphasizes the importance of discussing symptoms with medical providers and seeking support through accredited VA claims professionals, especially in complex disability cases.

May 6

Leah teams up with VA attorney Rebecca Deming of ProVet Legal to unpack a complex but crucial topic: working while rated 100% disabled by the VA. They clearly differentiate between 100% scheduler disability, which allows full-time work with no income restrictions, and TDIU (Total Disability based on Individual Unemployability), which comes with more nuanced rules around employment and income. Rebecca provides expert insight into what constitutes substantially gainful employment, sheltered work environments, and the risks of losing benefits if circumstances change. They also touch on supportive resources like Vocational Rehabilitation for veterans seeking new careers.

Apr 8

What is a DBQ in VA Disability? (Disability Benefits Questionnaire Explained) Episode Overview In this episode, we break down the Disability Benefits Questionnaire (DBQ) —a key tool in the VA disability claims process. Whether you’re filing a new claim, appealing a decision, or looking to increase your rating, understanding how a DBQ works can make all the difference. What We Cover: ✅ What is a Disability Benefits Questionnaire (DBQ)? ✅ How DBQs impact VA disability claims and ratings ✅ Who can complete a DBQ, and why that matters ✅ Tips for using a DBQ to strengthen your claim ✅ Common mistakes to avoid when submitting a DBQ Resources & Links: 📌 Official VA DBQ Forms: https://www.benefits.va.gov/compensation/dbq_publicdbqs.asp 📌 Guide to Filing a VA Disability Claim: https://www.va.gov/disability/how-to-file-claim/ 📌 VA-accredited Representatives & Legal Assistance: https://www.va.gov/get-help-from-accredited-representative/find-rep/ Connect With Us: 🎙️ Subscribe for more insights on VA disability claims! 📩 Have questions? Email us at info@prestigeveteranmctx.com 📱 Follow us on https://www.facebook.com/prestigeveteranmedicalconsulting

Mar 25

Don’t Ask, Don’t Tell & VA Disability: What Veterans Need to Know Episode Overview In this episode, we dive into the impact of the Don’t Ask, Don’t Tell (DADT) policy on veterans and their VA disability claims. We’ll discuss how the repeal of DADT has affected veteran benefits, what LGBTQ+ veterans need to know about filing for VA disability, and how past discharges related to sexual orientation may impact claims today. What We Cover: ✅ The history of Don’t Ask, Don’t Tell and its repeal ✅ How DADT-related discharges affect VA benefits ✅ VA disability benefits available to veterans impacted by DADT ✅ Legal and advocacy resources for affected veterans Connect With Us: 🎙️ Subscribe for more episodes on veteran benefits and advocacy! 📩 Have questions? Email us at info@prestigeveteranmctx.com 📱 Follow us on https://www.youtube.com/channel/UC5HfUyPEBtJX9jgYUlxtxlw

Mar 6

Welcome to The Veterans Disability Nexus, where we provide unique insights and expertise on medical evidence related to VA-rated disabilities. Leah Bucholz, a US Army Veteran, Physician Assistant, & former Compensation & Pension Examiner shares her knowledge related to Independent Medical Opinions often referred to as “Nexus Letters” in support of your pursuit of VA Disability every Wednesday at 7 AM.

Mar 5

Welcome to The Veterans Disability Nexus, where we provide unique insights and expertise on medical evidence related to VA-rated disabilities. Leah Bucholz, a US Army Veteran, Physician Assistant, & former Compensation & Pension Examiner shares her knowledge related to Independent Medical Opinions often referred to as “Nexus Letters” in support of your pursuit of VA Disability every Wednesday at 7 AM.

Mar 5

Welcome to The Veterans Disability Nexus, where we provide unique insights and expertise on medical evidence related to VA-rated disabilities. Leah Bucholz, a US Army Veteran, Physician Assistant, & former Compensation & Pension Examiner shares her knowledge related to Independent Medical Opinions often referred to as “Nexus Letters” in support of your pursuit of VA Disability every Wednesday at 7 AM.

Feb 27

Welcome to The Veterans Disability Nexus, where we provide unique insights and expertise on medical evidence related to VA-rated disabilities. Leah Bucholz, a US Army Veteran, Physician Assistant, & former Compensation & Pension Examiner shares her knowledge related to Independent Medical Opinions often referred to as “Nexus Letters” in support of your pursuit of VA Disability every Wednesday at 7 AM.

Feb 26

Welcome to The Veterans Disability Nexus, where we provide unique insights and expertise on medical evidence related to VA-rated disabilities. Leah Bucholz, a US Army Veteran, Physician Assistant, & former Compensation & Pension Examiner shares her knowledge related to Independent Medical Opinions often referred to as “Nexus Letters” in support of your pursuit of VA Disability every Wednesday at 7 AM.

Feb 20

Welcome to The Veterans Disability Nexus, where we provide unique insights and expertise on medical evidence related to VA-rated disabilities. Leah Bucholz, a US Army Veteran, Physician Assistant, & former Compensation & Pension Examiner shares her knowledge related to Independent Medical Opinions often referred to as “Nexus Letters” in support of your pursuit of VA Disability every Wednesday at 7 AM.

Feb 19

Welcome to The Veterans Disability Nexus, where we provide unique insights and expertise on medical evidence related to VA-rated disabilities. Leah Bucholz, a US Army Veteran, Physician Assistant, & former Compensation & Pension Examiner shares her knowledge related to Independent Medical Opinions often referred to as “Nexus Letters” in support of your pursuit of VA Disability every Wednesday at 7 AM.

Feb 13

Welcome to The Veterans Disability Nexus, where we provide unique insights and expertise on medical evidence related to VA-rated disabilities. Leah Bucholz, a US Army Veteran, Physician Assistant, & former Compensation & Pension Examiner shares her knowledge related to Independent Medical Opinions often referred to as “Nexus Letters” in support of your pursuit of VA Disability every Wednesday at 7 AM.

Feb 12

Welcome to The Veterans Disability Nexus, where we provide unique insights and expertise on medical evidence related to VA-rated disabilities. Leah Bucholz, a US Army Veteran, Physician Assistant, & former Compensation & Pension Examiner shares her knowledge related to Independent Medical Opinions often referred to as “Nexus Letters” in support of your pursuit of VA Disability every Wednesday at 7 AM. Leah discusses an important update to GI Bill benefits following a recent Supreme Court decision. The new policy allows eligible veterans to access up to 48 months of combined education benefits, an increase from the previous 36-month limit, provided they meet specific criteria, such as serving multiple periods of service or paying into the Montgomery GI Bill. Leah walks viewers through the application process, key changes, and how these expanded benefits can be used by veterans or transferred to their dependents. She highlights the importance of applying by the October 1, 2030 deadline and invites viewers to engage with her for more information on education benefits.

Feb 6

Welcome to The Veterans Disability Nexus, where we provide unique insights and expertise on medical evidence related to VA-rated disabilities. Leah Bucholz, a US Army Veteran, Physician Assistant, & former Compensation & Pension Examiner shares her knowledge related to Independent Medical Opinions often referred to as “Nexus Letters” in support of your pursuit of VA Disability every Wednesday at 7 AM. Leah discusses eosinophilic esophagitis (EoE) and its potential connection to VA disability claims, particularly for Gulf War veterans. She explains EoE as a chronic immune system disease where eosinophils, a type of white blood cell, accumulate in the esophagus, often due to allergens, causing inflammation and damage. Leah highlights the complexity of linking EoE to Gulf War exposures, emphasizing the role of allergens and immune responses potentially triggered by environmental factors like burn pits. She reviews relevant medical literature and encourages veterans with EoE to explore service connection possibilities, especially if the condition developed during or after service.

Feb 5

Welcome to The Veterans Disability Nexus, where we provide unique insights and expertise on medical evidence related to VA-rated disabilities. Leah Bucholz, a US Army Veteran, Physician Assistant, & former Compensation & Pension Examiner shares her knowledge related to Independent Medical Opinions often referred to as “Nexus Letters” in support of your pursuit of VA Disability every Wednesday at 7 AM. Leah provides an in-depth overview of asbestos exposure and its connection to VA disability claims. She explains that asbestos, once widely used in military settings like Navy ships from the 1940s to the 1980s, poses serious long-term health risks, including mesothelioma, asbestosis, and lung cancer, often manifesting decades after exposure. Leah highlights resources available for veterans, such as environmental health coordinators and VA.gov help documents, to aid in identifying exposure risks and filing disability claims. She emphasizes the importance of medical documentation, including service records and physician statements, to establish a connection between asbestos exposure during military service and related health conditions.

Jan 30

Welcome to The Veterans Disability Nexus, where we provide unique insights and expertise on medical evidence related to VA-rated disabilities. Leah Bucholz, a US Army Veteran, Physician Assistant, & former Compensation & Pension Examiner shares her knowledge related to Independent Medical Opinions often referred to as “Nexus Letters” in support of your pursuit of VA Disability every Wednesday at 7 AM. Leah provides an in-depth overview of the top five conditions linked to back pain in VA disability claims. She draws on her expertise as a former compensation and pension examiner to highlight conditions such as radiculopathy, mental health issues, sleep disorders, joint problems, and gastrointestinal complications, offering detailed explanations and references to peer-reviewed articles for further exploration. The content is thorough and practical, aimed at empowering veterans with the knowledge to better understand their conditions, explore secondary service connections, and collaborate with healthcare providers for claim support.

Jan 29

Welcome to The Veterans Disability Nexus, where we provide unique insights and expertise on medical evidence related to VA-rated disabilities. Leah Bucholz, a US Army Veteran, Physician Assistant, & former Compensation & Pension Examiner shares her knowledge related to Independent Medical Opinions often referred to as “Nexus Letters” in support of your pursuit of VA Disability every Wednesday at 7 AM. Leah discusses the VA's groundbreaking announcement of its first study on psychedelic-assisted therapy for veterans, focusing on MDMA as a treatment for PTSD and alcohol use disorder. The study, funded with $1.5 million over five years, will be conducted at Providence VA Medical Center and West Haven VA Medical Center, employing psychotherapy sessions enhanced by MDMA to evaluate its efficacy in improving emotional openness and reducing fear. Leah highlights the significance of this research in offering new hope to veterans with treatment-resistant PTSD, emphasizing the strict safety protocols and regulatory compliance involved.

Jan 23

Welcome to The Veterans Disability Nexus, where we provide unique insights and expertise on medical evidence related to VA-rated disabilities. Leah Bucholz, a US Army Veteran, Physician Assistant, & former Compensation & Pension Examiner shares her knowledge related to Independent Medical Opinions often referred to as “Nexus Letters” in support of your pursuit of VA Disability every Wednesday at 7 AM. Leah explains the VA Clothing Allowance, a benefit for veterans whose clothing is damaged by prosthetic or orthopedic devices or topical medications related to service-connected disabilities. She details eligibility criteria, such as the requirement for a service-connected disability and the damage caused by approved devices or medications, and highlights the annual application deadline of August 1. The benefit provides up to $999.51 per year and can be a recurring payment under certain conditions. Leah also shares resources for filing, including VA forms, prosthetic departments, and free assistance from veteran service officers (VSOs). She advises veterans to consult VA resources or their prosthetic department to confirm eligibility and encourages engagement with her content for further support.

Jan 22

Welcome to The Veterans Disability Nexus, where we provide unique insights and expertise on medical evidence related to VA-rated disabilities. Leah Bucholz, a US Army Veteran, Physician Assistant, & former Compensation & Pension Examiner shares her knowledge related to Independent Medical Opinions often referred to as “Nexus Letters” in support of your pursuit of VA Disability every Wednesday at 7 AM. Leah provides an informative overview of Raynaud's Disease and its implications for veterans seeking disability benefits. She explains the condition's triggers, symptoms, and its impact on daily life, emphasizing how it can be service-connected either directly or as a secondary condition linked to stress or other service-related factors like PTSD. Leah also highlights VA disability ratings for Raynaud's, which range from 10% to 100%, based on the frequency and severity of attacks.

Jan 8

Welcome to The Veterans Disability Nexus, where we provide unique insights and expertise on medical evidence related to VA-rated disabilities. Leah Bucholz, a US Army Veteran, Physician Assistant, & former Compensation & Pension Examiner shares her knowledge related to Independent Medical Opinions often referred to as “Nexus Letters” in support of your pursuit of VA Disability every Wednesday at 7 AM.

Dec 18, 2024

Dec 11, 2024

Leah B explains ionizing radiation and its impact on veterans seeking VA disability benefits. She describes ionizing radiation as a powerful form of energy that can damage cells and DNA, potentially leading to serious health conditions like cancer. Leah highlights the VA's presumptive criteria for disabilities caused by radiation exposure, including specific locations, timeframes, and radiogenic diseases such as leukemia, thyroid cancer, and more. She provides guidance on navigating VA resources, understanding eligibility requirements, and seeking assistance from veteran service officers or legal professionals. The video emphasizes the importance of reviewing available materials and sharing experiences to better support veterans navigating these claims.

Dec 10, 2024

Welcome to The Veterans Disability Nexus, where we provide unique insights and expertise on medical evidence related to VA-rated disabilities. Leah Bucholz, a US Army Veteran, Physician Assistant, & former Compensation & Pension Examiner shares her knowledge related to Independent Medical Opinions often referred to as “Nexus Letters” in support of your pursuit of VA Disability every Wednesday at 7 AM. Leah discusses military sexual trauma (MST) and the resources available through the VA for veterans who have experienced it. She explains MST as encompassing any unwanted sexual activity during military service, including harassment, assault, or coercion, and notes its lasting impact on individuals. Leah highlights VA-provided support, including fact sheets, MST coordinators, and various therapies like cognitive processing therapy (CPT) and eye movement desensitization and reprocessing (EMDR). She emphasizes the importance of seeking help, acknowledging the challenges of addressing MST within a military culture that often stigmatizes vulnerability. The video also introduces a mobile app and community-based vet center counseling options, urging veterans to take advantage of these resources for their mental and physical well-being.

Dec 4, 2024

Leah is joined by Rebecca Deming, an attorney specializing in veteran disability law, to explain the bilateral factor in VA disability calculations. They discuss how the VA's unique "VA math" system combines rather than adds disability ratings and how the bilateral factor impacts veterans with disabilities in both arms or both legs, increasing their overall rating. Rebecca explains that the bilateral factor provides a small percentage increase in cases involving conditions affecting both sides, which can affect a veteran’s compensation rate. The video demonstrates a tool on the ProVet Legal website that veterans can use to calculate their combined rating, including the bilateral factor, helping veterans better understand and manage their ratings.

Dec 3, 2024

Leah discuss the complexities of VA disability calculations, often referred to as "VA math." Rebecca explains how the VA combines individual disability percentages using a unique formula rather than simple addition, ensuring veterans receive an accurate overall disability rating. The video introduces a VA disability calculator on ProVet Legal’s website, which veterans can use to simplify this calculation process. They cover key concepts, including the "whole person approach," rounding rules, and the bilateral factor, which can impact a veteran’s combined rating if disabilities affect both sides of the body. Rebecca encourages veterans with concerns about their rating accuracy to consult an attorney for a free case review, and she emphasizes using tools like the calculator to gain better insight into their VA disability benefits.

Nov 27, 2024

Leah explains the link between prostate cancer and Agent Orange exposure for veterans seeking disability benefits. She highlights that the VA presumes certain conditions, including prostate cancer, are service-related if veterans served in specific locations and time frames. Agent Orange exposure has been associated with multiple cancers and other health issues, including bladder cancer, diabetes, and respiratory cancers. Leah outlines various studies supporting this link and clarifies the VA's rating process for prostate cancer, starting with a 100% rating post-diagnosis, with periodic re-evaluation for residual effects.

Nov 26, 2024

In this video, Leah B., a U.S. Army veteran and physician assistant, discusses traumatic brain injuries (TBI) and their impact on veterans' disability claims, focusing on residual effects like headaches. She explains the causes of TBIs, including blunt and penetrating injuries, and the various symptoms that can arise, such as headaches, dizziness, memory issues, and emotional challenges. Leah shares her personal TBI experience and emphasizes the importance of seeking medical care, as TBIs can lead to long-term complications. She also highlights resources available through the VA and encourages veterans to consult accredited professionals when filing or appealing disability claims related to TBI.

Nov 20, 2024

Welcome to The Veterans Disability Nexus, where we provide unique insights and expertise on medical evidence related to VA-rated disabilities. Leah Bucholz, a US Army Veteran, Physician Assistant, & former Compensation & Pension Examiner shares her knowledge related to Independent Medical Opinions often referred to as “Nexus Letters” in support of your pursuit of VA Disability every Wednesday at 7 AM. In the video, Leah and Rebecca Deming delve into the specifics of Dependency Indemnity Compensation (DIC) for the survivors of veterans who either died in the line of duty or from service-related injuries. Rebecca, a VA attorney, clarifies that DIC provides monthly financial support primarily to spouses, children, and parents under certain conditions, such as marriage duration and financial need based on poverty thresholds. They discuss the complexities of proving a service-connected cause of death, especially when death certificates list vague causes like "natural causes" or "pneumonia." They emphasize the necessity of linking the cause of death to service-related conditions and possibly amending death certificates to reflect accurate causes, enhancing the survivors' eligibility for DIC benefits.

Nov 19, 2024

Welcome to The Veterans Disability Nexus, where we provide unique insights and expertise on medical evidence related to VA-rated disabilities. Leah Bucholz, a US Army Veteran, Physician Assistant, & former Compensation & Pension Examiner shares her knowledge related to Independent Medical Opinions often referred to as “Nexus Letters” in support of your pursuit of VA Disability every Wednesday at 7 AM.

Nov 13, 2024

Welcome to The Veterans Disability Nexus, where we provide unique insights and expertise on medical evidence related to VA-rated disabilities. Leah Bucholz, a US Army Veteran, Physician Assistant, & former Compensation & Pension Examiner shares her knowledge related to Independent Medical Opinions often referred to as “Nexus Letters” in support of your pursuit of VA Disability every Wednesday at 7 AM. In this episode, Leah discusses Eosinophilic Esophagitis and Gulf War Veterans.

Nov 12, 2024

Welcome to The Veterans Disability Nexus, where we provide unique insights and expertise on medical evidence related to VA-rated disabilities. Leah Bucholz, a US Army Veteran, Physician Assistant, & former Compensation & Pension Examiner shares her knowledge related to Independent Medical Opinions often referred to as “Nexus Letters” in support of your pursuit of VA Disability every Wednesday at 7 AM. In this episode, Leah discusses osteoporosis and its potential connection to Veterans Affairs (VA) disability benefits. She explains that osteoporosis, which weakens bones and increases fracture risk, can be linked to military service either directly or as a secondary condition caused by another service-connected disability. Leah highlights the risk factors and symptoms of osteoporosis and mentions that certain medications, such as proton pump inhibitors (PPIs), can contribute to its development. She also outlines how veterans diagnosed with osteoporosis during or after service may qualify for VA disability ratings, particularly if they experience incapacitating episodes or significant bone damage.

Nov 6, 2024

Welcome to The Veterans Disability Nexus, where we provide unique insights and expertise on medical evidence related to VA-rated disabilities. Leah Bucholz, a US Army Veteran, Physician Assistant, & former Compensation & Pension Examiner shares her knowledge related to Independent Medical Opinions often referred to as “Nexus Letters” in support of your pursuit of VA Disability every Wednesday at 7 AM. In this episode, Leah, discusses when to hire a VA disability attorney with Rebecca Deming, an accredited VA attorney from ProVet Legal. Rebecca shares her journey into VA law and explains that while veterans can file claims on their own or with the help of a Veteran Service Organization (VSO), attorneys can be essential when claims are complex or denied. She emphasizes that VA attorneys must be accredited and do not charge for assisting with initial claims, but typically charge a contingency fee of 20-33% on back pay for successful appeals. Rebecca also highlights the importance of seeking legal advice early in the process to avoid complicating a case and stresses the value of working with experienced, dedicated VA attorneys.

Nov 5, 2024

Welcome to The Veterans Disability Nexus, where we provide unique insights and expertise on medical evidence related to VA-rated disabilities. Leah Bucholz, a US Army Veteran, Physician Assistant, & former Compensation & Pension Examiner shares her knowledge related to Independent Medical Opinions often referred to as “Nexus Letters” in support of your pursuit of VA Disability every Wednesday at 7 AM. In this video, Leah, discusses community care for veterans under the Veterans Health Administration (VHA). She explains how veterans can access health care from local community providers when the VA cannot provide the necessary services. Leah emphasizes the eligibility criteria, such as being enrolled in VA healthcare and obtaining prior approval from the VA. She highlights various types of community care, including urgent care, emergency care, and specialty services, and explains how veterans can use the VA website to find in-network providers. She encourages veterans to explore these benefits and praises the VA for offering valuable healthcare services, sharing her positive experiences using VA healthcare.

Oct 30, 2024

Welcome to The Veterans Disability Nexus, where we provide unique insights and expertise on medical evidence related to VA-rated disabilities. Leah Bucholz, a US Army Veteran, Physician Assistant, & former Compensation & Pension Examiner shares her knowledge related to Independent Medical Opinions often referred to as “Nexus Letters” in support of your pursuit of VA Disability every Wednesday at 7 AM. In this episode, Leah B., a U.S. Army veteran and physician assistant, discusses who is entitled to VA vision care benefits and how to access them. She explains that if veterans qualify for VA healthcare benefits, they may receive routine eye exams and preventive vision testing, such as glaucoma screenings, through the VA. Additionally, veterans with service-connected disabilities or specific conditions (e.g., blindness, stroke, or traumatic brain injury) may be eligible for advanced vision care, rehabilitation services, and coverage for eyeglasses. Leah emphasizes that veterans can visit VA.gov to find detailed information and contact their local VA Medical Center or prosthetic representative for further assistance.

Oct 29, 2024

Welcome to The Veterans Disability Nexus, where we provide unique insights and expertise on medical evidence related to VA-rated disabilities. Leah Bucholz, a US Army Veteran, Physician Assistant, & former Compensation & Pension Examiner shares her knowledge related to Independent Medical Opinions often referred to as “Nexus Letters” in support of your pursuit of VA Disability every Wednesday at 7 AM. In this video, Leah, discusses urinary frequency and voiding dysfunctions in the context of VA disability claims and Compensation & Pension (C&P) exams. She explains that urinary frequency is often a symptom of underlying conditions such as benign prostatic hyperplasia, cancer, or stress incontinence. Veterans may receive service connection for urinary frequency either on a primary or secondary basis, depending on when the condition developed. Leah outlines what happens during a C&P exam, including the use of the Disability Benefits Questionnaire (DBQ) to evaluate the veteran's condition and determine the severity of symptoms, such as the need for absorbent materials or the frequency of bathroom visits. She also touches on how urinary frequency impacts VA disability ratings, which range from 10% to 40% based on the frequency of urination.

Oct 23, 2024

Welcome to The Veterans Disability Nexus, where we provide unique insights and expertise on medical evidence related to VA-rated disabilities. Leah Bucholz, a US Army Veteran, Physician Assistant, & former Compensation & Pension Examiner shares her knowledge related to Independent Medical Opinions often referred to as “Nexus Letters” in support of your pursuit of VA Disability every Wednesday at 7 AM. In this video, Leah discusses VA dental care benefits, focusing on eligibility and available services. She explains how veterans may qualify for full or partial dental care based on factors such as military service, health, and living situation, with VA placing veterans into different dental classification categories. Leah highlights specific scenarios where veterans can receive dental care, such as for service-connected disabilities, and guides viewers to the VA’s website for further information. She encourages veterans to familiarize themselves with their benefits, contact VA liaisons for help with enrollment, and explore options for dental insurance if not fully covered.

Oct 22, 2024

Welcome to The Veterans Disability Nexus, where we provide unique insights and expertise on medical evidence related to VA-rated disabilities. Leah Bucholz, a US Army Veteran, Physician Assistant, & former Compensation & Pension Examiner shares her knowledge related to Independent Medical Opinions often referred to as “Nexus Letters” in support of your pursuit of VA Disability every Wednesday at 7 AM. In this video, Leah discusses Dependency and Indemnity Compensation (DIC) benefits for surviving dependents with Rebecca Deming, an accredited VA attorney from ProVet Legal. They cover the basics of DIC, including eligibility requirements for spouses, children, and parents, as well as the different factors that can influence the amount received. Rebecca clarifies common misconceptions, such as whether benefits depend on the veteran's previous compensation and how service-related deaths affect eligibility. The discussion also touches on the process for filing claims, the importance of understanding these benefits for estate planning, and highlights the need for attention to detail to avoid delays and errors in claims. The video serves as an informative guide for those seeking to understand the complexities of VA survivor benefits.

Oct 16, 2024

Welcome to The Veterans Disability Nexus, where we provide unique insights and expertise on medical evidence related to VA-rated disabilities. Leah Bucholz, a US Army Veteran, Physician Assistant, & former Compensation & Pension Examiner shares her knowledge related to Independent Medical Opinions often referred to as “Nexus Letters” in support of your pursuit of VA Disability. In this video, Leah, discusses the 2025 Cost of Living Allowance (COLA) increase for veterans receiving VA disability payments. She explains that there will be a 2.5% increase, the lowest since the COVID-19 pandemic, aimed at addressing inflation. Leah compares past increases, such as 3.2% in 2023 and 5.9% in 2021, and outlines how the adjustment will affect veterans, particularly those without dependents. For example, a veteran receiving 100% disability will see their payment rise from $3,737 to an estimated $3,833. Leah encourages viewers to factor in any dependents when calculating their new rates.

Oct 9, 2024

Welcome to The Veterans Disability Nexus, where we provide unique insights and expertise on medical evidence related to VA-rated disabilities. Leah Bucholz, a US Army Veteran, Physician Assistant, & former Compensation & Pension Examiner shares her knowledge related to Independent Medical Opinions often referred to as “Nexus Letters” in support of your pursuit of VA Disability every Wednesday at 7 AM. In this video, Leah provides a detailed walkthrough of what veterans can expect during a C&P exam for elbow pain or related conditions. She explains the process from receiving the exam notification to the specific tests and questions that will be covered, such as range of motion assessments and the evaluation of any related surgeries or scars. The video aims to ease veterans' nerves by offering a comprehensive guide to the exam, helping them understand the purpose behind each step, and ensuring they are well-prepared.

Oct 8, 2024

In this video, Leah, discusses the connection between depression and orthopedic conditions like back pain, particularly in the context of VA disability claims. Leah, a US Army veteran and physician assistant, explains how mental health conditions such as depression can be directly or secondarily related to a veteran's service. She highlights that chronic pain from service-related injuries often exacerbates mental health issues, creating a cyclical relationship between physical pain and depression. Leah reviews several studies underscoring this link, noting that individuals with chronic pain are at a higher risk of developing depressive symptoms.

Oct 2, 2024

Welcome to The Veterans Disability Nexus, where we provide unique insights and expertise on medical evidence related to VA-rated disabilities. Leah Bucholz, a US Army Veteran, Physician Assistant, & former Compensation & Pension Examiner shares her knowledge related to Independent Medical Opinions often referred to as “Nexus Letters” in support of your pursuit of VA Disability every Wednesday at 7 AM. In this video, Leah discusses the VA Caregiver Support Program. She highlights the program's two branches: the General Caregiver Support Services and the Comprehensive Assistance for Family Caregivers. The General Caregiver Support Services offers resources such as peer support and training, while the Comprehensive Assistance program provides more intensive support for those caring for veterans with serious injuries or illnesses, including access to Champ VA healthcare and monthly stipends.

Oct 1, 2024

Welcome to The Veterans Disability Nexus, where we provide unique insights and expertise on medical evidence related to VA-rated disabilities. Leah Bucholz, a US Army Veteran, Physician Assistant, & former Compensation & Pension Examiner shares her knowledge related to Independent Medical Opinions often referred to as “Nexus Letters” in support of your pursuit of VA Disability every Wednesday at 7 AM. In this video, Leah B from Prestige Veteran Medical Consulting discusses the top five conditions related to knee pain in VA disability claims, drawing from her extensive experience as a former compensation and pension examiner and current medical consultant for veterans. She explains how compensatory mechanisms and gait abnormalities can lead to issues in the other knee and hips, highlights the gastrointestinal problems caused by NSAID usage, and addresses the impact of weight gain due to reduced mobility. Additionally, Leah emphasizes the mental health challenges, such as depression and anxiety, that often accompany chronic orthopedic pain.

Sep 25, 2024

Welcome to The Veterans Disability Nexus, where we provide unique insights and expertise on medical evidence related to VA-rated disabilities. Leah Bucholz, a US Army Veteran, Physician Assistant, & former Compensation & Pension Examiner shares her knowledge related to Independent Medical Opinions often referred to as “Nexus Letters” in support of your pursuit of VA Disability every Wednesday at 7 AM. In this video, Leah provides an insightful and detailed explanation of what veterans can expect during a Compensation and Pension (C&P) exam for skin cancer. She covers the different types of skin cancer commonly seen in VA disability cases, the importance of early detection, and the specifics of the Disability Benefits Questionnaire (DBQ) process. Leah offers practical advice on preparing for the exam, highlights useful resources available on va.gov, and reassures veterans by demystifying the exam process to reduce anxiety. Her thorough approach and empathetic perspective make this video a valuable resource for veterans navigating their C&P exams.

Sep 24, 2024

Welcome to The Veterans Disability Nexus, where we provide unique insights and expertise on medical evidence related to VA-rated disabilities. Leah Bucholz, a US Army Veteran, Physician Assistant, & former Compensation & Pension Examiner shares her knowledge related to Independent Medical Opinions often referred to as “Nexus Letters” in support of your pursuit of VA Disability every Wednesday at 7 AM. In this video, Leah delves into the connection between knee pain and ankle pain in the context of VA disability claims. She explains how veterans can get rated for knee pain either on a primary basis due to direct service-related injuries or on a secondary basis when an ankle issue affects the knee. Leah highlights several studies that support this connection, emphasizing the importance of obtaining medical reports to substantiate claims. She also notes the role of weight gain from service-connected disabilities in exacerbating joint issues, providing a comprehensive overview to help veterans navigate their disability claims related to knee pain.

Sep 18, 2024

Welcome to The Veterans Disability Nexus, where we provide unique insights and expertise on medical evidence related to VA-rated disabilities. Leah Bucholz, a US Army Veteran, Physician Assistant, & former Compensation & Pension Examiner shares her knowledge related to Independent Medical Opinions often referred to as “Nexus Letters” in support of your pursuit of VA Disability every Wednesday at 7 AM. In this video, Leah explains carpal tunnel syndrome (CTS) and its relation to VA disability. She begins by describing CTS as a common condition where pressure on the median nerve in the wrist causes symptoms like numbness, tingling, and weakness primarily in the thumb and first three fingers. The condition can be exacerbated by repetitive hand movements or anatomical factors. Leah also discusses how CTS can qualify for VA disability either on a primary basis if it was developed during active duty, or on a secondary basis if another service-connected condition aggravates it. She covers the potential influence of risk factors like obesity and provides a brief overview of how the VA rates the disability severity of CTS, emphasizing the importance of consulting with a veteran service officer or similar expert for claims assistance.

Sep 17, 2024

Welcome to The Veterans Disability Nexus, where we provide unique insights and expertise on medical evidence related to VA-rated disabilities. Leah Bucholz, a US Army Veteran, Physician Assistant, & former Compensation & Pension Examiner shares her knowledge related to Independent Medical Opinions often referred to as “Nexus Letters” in support of your pursuit of VA Disability every Wednesday at 7 AM. In this video, Leah explains the relationship between melanoma and VA disability. She discusses melanoma as a type of skin cancer often found in veterans, which can manifest during or years after active duty due to exposure to ultraviolet light. The recent Sergeant First Class Heath Robinson Honoring Our PACT Act classifies melanoma among the presumptive conditions for veterans exposed to environmental toxins during service, particularly in Gulf War areas. Several studies have shown higher skin cancer rates, including melanoma, among military personnel compared to the general population, particularly those who served in equatorial or sunny climates.

Sep 11, 2024

Welcome to The Veterans Disability Nexus, where we provide unique insights and expertise on medical evidence related to VA-rated disabilities. Leah Bucholz, a US Army Veteran, Physician Assistant, & former Compensation & Pension Examiner shares her knowledge related to Independent Medical Opinions often referred to as “Nexus Letters” in support of your pursuit of VA Disability every Wednesday at 7 AM. In this video, Leah discusses recent updates to the VA disability ratings for GERD (gastroesophageal reflux disease) effective May 19, 2024. She explains that GERD is no longer rated analogously with hiatal hernia but now has its specific rating criteria. Leah highlights the new disability benefits questionnaire (DBQ) that includes various GERD-related symptoms and the severity of conditions like esophageal stricture, which significantly influence the rating percentages. She emphasizes the importance of medical documentation in claims and encourages veterans with GERD, often related to service or other service-connected conditions, to consult with legal professionals or claims agents for personalized guidance. The updated ratings now reflect the structural nature of GERD, distinguishing it from functional digestive disorders related to Gulf War exposures.

Sep 10, 2024

Welcome to The Veterans Disability Nexus, where we provide unique insights and expertise on medical evidence related to VA-rated disabilities. Leah Bucholz, a US Army Veteran, Physician Assistant, & former Compensation & Pension Examiner shares her knowledge related to Independent Medical Opinions often referred to as “Nexus Letters” in support of your pursuit of VA Disability every Wednesday at 7 AM. In the video, Leah discusses the implications of smoking among veterans and its potential impact on VA disability benefits. She highlights the high prevalence of smoking among veterans and active duty service members compared to civilians, often starting during military service or deployment. Leah emphasizes that for veterans to qualify for compensation for smoking-related health issues, they must demonstrate a connection between their condition and military service. She also outlines the resources available for quitting smoking and the significant health risks associated with tobacco use, encouraging veterans to seek help and use available support systems like the VA's smoking cessation resources.

Sep 4, 2024

Welcome to The Veterans Disability Nexus, where we provide unique insights and expertise on medical evidence related to VA-rated disabilities. Leah Bucholz, a US Army Veteran, Physician Assistant, & former Compensation & Pension Examiner shares her knowledge related to Independent Medical Opinions often referred to as “Nexus Letters” in support of your pursuit of VA Disability every Wednesday at 7 AM. In the video Leah discusses the relevance of military occupational specialties (MOS) to VA disability claims, particularly focusing on combat medics. She shares her own journey from being a combat medic deployed with the 82nd Airborne Division to deciding to become a physician assistant influenced by her experiences and mentors. Leah introduces the MOS smartbook, explaining how it helps in assessing whether personnel can still perform their duties and how these duties, especially those demanding physical tasks like carrying heavy loads or performing medical procedures under stress, can be linked to service-related health conditions. She emphasizes the value of understanding one's MOS requirements when filing for VA disability claims, aiming to assist veterans in navigating their rights and potential claims.

Sep 3, 2024

Welcome to The Veterans Disability Nexus, where we provide unique insights and expertise on medical evidence related to VA-rated disabilities. Leah Bucholz, a US Army Veteran, Physician Assistant, & former Compensation & Pension Examiner shares her knowledge related to Independent Medical Opinions often referred to as “Nexus Letters” in support of your pursuit of VA Disability every Wednesday at 7 AM. In this video, Leah explains the connection between hip pain and back pain in the context of VA disability ratings. She discusses various bases for service connection of hip conditions, emphasizing secondary connections to other issues like back pain, knee problems, and significant weight gain. Leah highlights several studies illustrating how lumbar spine degeneration precedes hip osteoarthritis and impacts hip joint mechanics and kinematics. She provides resources and studies for veterans to review with their doctors to potentially support their disability claims.

Aug 28, 2024

Welcome to The Veterans Disability Nexus, where we provide unique insights and expertise on medical evidence related to VA-rated disabilities. Leah Bucholz, a US Army Veteran, Physician Assistant, & former Compensation & Pension Examiner shares her knowledge related to Independent Medical Opinions often referred to as “Nexus Letters” in support of your pursuit of VA Disability every Wednesday at 7 AM. Leah discusses recent concerns regarding the quality of veteran compensation and pension (C&P) exams. Drawing from a military.com article featuring comments from Senator Elizabeth Warren, Leah highlights issues such as examiners not reviewing veterans' service records, inappropriate locations for exams, and rushed assessments. She explains that these exams are often crucial for adjudicators in determining if a veteran's disability is service-connected and the degree of disability. Despite the challenges, Leah points out that there are dedicated and skilled examiners, urging veterans to seek legal advice if they experience a poor exam outcome.

Aug 27, 2024

Welcome to The Veterans Disability Nexus, where we provide unique insights and expertise on medical evidence related to VA-rated disabilities. Leah Bucholz, a US Army Veteran, Physician Assistant, & former Compensation & Pension Examiner shares her knowledge related to Independent Medical Opinions often referred to as “Nexus Letters” in support of your pursuit of VA Disability every Wednesday at 7 AM. In the video, Leab discusses the connection between Herpes Simplex Virus (HSV) and PTSD in the context of VA disability claims. She explains that HSV, a common virus causing painful blisters, is often embarrassing for many, including veterans, and encourages those affected to seek medical advice or legal assistance for related VA claims. Highlighting the physiological link, she notes that stress, including emotional stress from conditions like PTSD, can activate the virus. She also references several sources, including the World Health Organization and CDC, to underscore the recurrent nature of HSV, its triggers, and the impact of stress on outbreaks.

Aug 21, 2024

Welcome to The Veterans Disability Nexus, where we provide unique insights and expertise on medical evidence related to VA-rated disabilities. Leah Bucholz, a US Army Veteran, Physician Assistant, & former Compensation & Pension Examiner shares her knowledge related to Independent Medical Opinions often referred to as “Nexus Letters” in support of your pursuit of VA Disability every Wednesday at 7 AM. In the video, Leah discusses the relationship between Gout and PTSD as it relates to VA disability claims. As a US Army veteran and physician assistant with experience as a compensation and pension examiner, she explains that gout is a type of arthritis characterized by severe pain, swelling, and tenderness, often occurring in the big toe, and can be exacerbated by factors like diet and alcohol consumption, which are common in those suffering from PTSD due to compensatory behaviors such as overeating or increased alcohol use to cope with mental health conditions. Leah also touches on how these lifestyle changes associated with PTSD can lead to obesity, which is a risk factor for developing gout.

Aug 20, 2024

Welcome to The Veterans Disability Nexus, where we provide unique insights and expertise on medical evidence related to VA-rated disabilities. Leah Bucholz, a US Army Veteran, Physician Assistant, & former Compensation & Pension Examiner shares her knowledge related to Independent Medical Opinions often referred to as “Nexus Letters” in support of your pursuit of VA Disability every Wednesday at 7 AM. In this video Leah offers a detailed guide on what to expect during a VA Compensation and Pension (C&P) exam specifically for prostate cancer, aiming to alleviate the concerns of veterans who often feel apprehensive about the process. Initially, veterans scheduled for an exam receive a packet detailing the examiner's qualifications and the exam logistics. At the exam, the examiner discusses the Disability Benefits Questionnaire (DBQ), which veterans can also have completed by their healthcare provider beforehand. The DBQ covers various conditions but will focus on those relevant to the veteran’s case, including any history of prostate cancer. The exam might address additional conditions like erectile dysfunction if applicable, and veterans have the option to decline certain physical exams for comfort.

Aug 14, 2024

Welcome to The Veterans Disability Nexus, where we provide unique insights and expertise on medical evidence related to VA-rated disabilities. Leah Bucholz, a US Army Veteran, Physician Assistant, & former Compensation & Pension Examiner shares her knowledge related to Independent Medical Opinions often referred to as “Nexus Letters” in support of your pursuit of VA Disability every Wednesday at 7 AM. In this video, Leah discusses Crohn's disease in the context of VA disability, particularly how it can be connected to PTSD and other mental health conditions. She defines Crohn's disease as an inflammatory bowel disease causing swelling in the digestive tract, leading to symptoms like abdominal pain, severe diarrhea, fatigue, weight loss, and malnutrition. Leah explains the process for service connection of Crohn's disease, which can be directly diagnosed during active duty or secondary if related to other medical conditions like PTSD. She cites studies showing the impact of stress on the brain-gut axis and its contribution to gastrointestinal disorders, including Crohn's. Furthermore, Leah touches on the VA examination and rating process for Crohn's disease, emphasizing the importance of consulting with a legal professional for current ratings and legal advice.

Jul 9, 2024

Welcome to The Veterans Disability Nexus, where we provide unique insights and expertise on medical evidence related to VA-rated disabilities. Leah Bucholz, a US Army Veteran, Physician Assistant, & former Compensation & Pension Examiner shares her knowledge related to Independent Medical Opinions often referred to as “Nexus Letters” in support of your pursuit of VA Disability every Wednesday at 7 AM. In this video Leah addresses the issue of non-alcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD) and its connection to obesity in the context of VA disability. She explains that NAFLD is a common liver condition affecting individuals who consume minimal to no alcohol, primarily seen in those who are overweight or obese. This condition, which affects about 25% of the global population and 100 million people in the U.S., can progress to non-alcoholic steatohepatitis (NASH), leading to severe liver damage similar to that caused by heavy alcohol use. Leah highlights the importance of recognizing obesity as a contributing factor to NAFLD and discusses various studies on the relationship between obesity, physical inactivity, and NAFLD. She emphasizes the role of weight loss and physical activity in managing NAFLD, referencing guidelines that recommend these as primary treatments. Additionally, she outlines the VA disability ratings for conditions related to NAFLD, stressing the need for a current diagnosis, an in-service event, injury, or illness, and a link between the service event and the current disability.

Jul 3, 2024

Welcome to The Veterans Disability Nexus, where we provide unique insights and expertise on medical evidence related to VA-rated disabilities. Leah Bucholz, a US Army Veteran, Physician Assistant, & former Compensation & Pension Examiner shares her knowledge related to Independent Medical Opinions often referred to as “Nexus Letters” in support of your pursuit of VA Disability every Wednesday at 7 AM. In this video, Leah discusses how obstructive sleep apnea (OSA) can be connected to chronic sinusitis and its implications for VA disability claims. She explains that sleep apnea can be rated on a direct basis if diagnosed in service or as a secondary condition related to another service-connected disability, such as sinusitis, allergic rhinitis, obesity, or GERD. Through various studies, Leah highlights that nasal congestion significantly increases the prevalence of OSA and that conditions like chronic sinusitis and allergic rhinitis contribute to upper airway patency impairment, thus exacerbating OSA. She also delves into how nasal pathologies, including deviated septum and nasal inflammation, play a role in OSA by causing breathing obstructions.

Jul 2, 2024

Welcome to The Veterans Disability Nexus, where we provide unique insights and expertise on medical evidence related to VA-rated disabilities. Leah Bucholz, a US Army Veteran, Physician Assistant, & former Compensation & Pension Examiner shares her knowledge related to Independent Medical Opinions often referred to as “Nexus Letters” in support of your pursuit of VA Disability every Wednesday at 7 AM. In this video Leah shares insights on what to expect during a Compensation and Pension (C&P) exam for heart or cardiac conditions for VA disability claims. She emphasizes that understanding the process can alleviate anxieties veterans may have. Information about the exam is available on the VA website, where veterans can download the Disability Benefit Questionnaire to review or have filled out by their doctor, potentially aiding their VA claim. Leah highlights that the exam can assess heart conditions on a primary or secondary basis, including conditions caused or aggravated by service. The process involves receiving a packet with details about the provider conducting the evaluation, which could be a variety of healthcare professionals, not necessarily a cardiologist.

Jun 26, 2024

Welcome to The Veterans Disability Nexus, where we provide unique insights and expertise on medical evidence related to VA-rated disabilities. Leah Bucholz, a US Army Veteran, Physician Assistant, & former Compensation & Pension Examiner shares her knowledge related to Independent Medical Opinions often referred to as “Nexus Letters” in support of your pursuit of VA Disability every Wednesday at 7 AM. In this video, Leah delves into the specifics of anterior cruciate ligament (ACL) injuries and their connection to VA disability. She starts by explaining the anatomy of the knee using a model to pinpoint the location and role of the ACL, detailing how such injuries can lead to knee instability. Leah further discusses how veterans can acquire ACL injuries either directly during active duty through activities such as jumps or sports or indirectly as a secondary consequence of other knee conditions. She underscores the importance of understanding the medical literature and encourages consulting with healthcare providers to support claims related to knee injuries stemming from service. Highlighting the commonality of ACL injuries, their diagnosis, and the potential long-term complications of untreated injuries, Leah advises veterans on the claims filing process and the utility of finding accredited support through va.gov.

Jun 25, 2024

Welcome to The Veterans Disability Nexus, where we provide unique insights and expertise on medical evidence related to VA-rated disabilities. Leah Bucholz, a US Army Veteran, Physician Assistant, & former Compensation & Pension Examiner shares her knowledge related to Independent Medical Opinions often referred to as “Nexus Letters” in support of your pursuit of VA Disability every Wednesday at 7 AM. In this video, Leah discusses the water contamination at Camp Lejeune and its health implications for veterans. She explains that volatile organic compounds, found in products like dry cleaning solvents, contaminated the camp's groundwater due to nearby industrial activities, surpassing Environmental Protection Agency limits. This contamination, discovered in 1982 but present for years prior, has been linked to several health conditions, including various cancers. Leah highlights the importance of understanding VA disability and healthcare benefits available for veterans exposed to these toxins between 1953 and 1987. She outlines the concept of presumptive conditions, which are health issues presumed to be caused by military service, eliminating the need for veterans to prove the link themselves. Conditions like leukemia, bladder cancer, and Parkinson's disease are among those recognized for eligibility for compensation.

Jun 19, 2024

Welcome to The Veterans Disability Nexus, where we provide unique insights and expertise on medical evidence related to VA-rated disabilities. Leah Bucholz, a US Army Veteran, Physician Assistant, & former Compensation & Pension Examiner shares her knowledge related to Independent Medical Opinions often referred to as “Nexus Letters” in support of your pursuit of VA Disability every Wednesday at 7 AM. In this video Leah discusses the concept of individual unemployability among veterans, particularly how mental health conditions such as PTSD and depression can render a veteran unemployable and eligible for a 100% disability rating from the VA. She emphasizes the importance of understanding the VA's criteria for eligibility, which include the inability to maintain substantially gainful employment due to service-connected disabilities, and explains the process of applying for such benefits, including consulting with an accredited legal professional. Leah B also highlights the significance of supporting documentation, such as personal statements or reports from vocational assessors and psychologists, in demonstrating how mental health conditions affect workplace performance and eligibility for increased compensation.

Jun 18, 2024

Welcome to The Veterans Disability Nexus, where we provide unique insights and expertise on medical evidence related to VA-rated disabilities. Leah Bucholz, a US Army Veteran, Physician Assistant, & former Compensation & Pension Examiner shares her knowledge related to Independent Medical Opinions often referred to as “Nexus Letters” in support of your pursuit of VA Disability every Wednesday at 7 AM.

Jun 12, 2024

Welcome to The Veterans Disability Nexus, where we provide unique insights and expertise on medical evidence related to VA-rated disabilities. Leah Bucholz, a US Army Veteran, Physician Assistant, & former Compensation & Pension Examiner shares her knowledge related to Independent Medical Opinions often referred to as “Nexus Letters” in support of your pursuit of VA Disability every Wednesday at 7 AM.

Jun 11, 2024

Welcome to The Veterans Disability Nexus, where we provide unique insights and expertise on medical evidence related to VA-rated disabilities. Leah Bucholz, a US Army Veteran, Physician Assistant, & former Compensation & Pension Examiner shares her knowledge related to Independent Medical Opinions often referred to as “Nexus Letters” in support of your pursuit of VA Disability every Wednesday at 7 AM.

Jun 5, 2024

Welcome to The Veterans Disability Nexus, where we provide unique insights and expertise on medical evidence related to VA-rated disabilities. Leah Bucholz, a US Army Veteran, Physician Assistant, & former Compensation & Pension Examiner shares her knowledge related to Independent Medical Opinions often referred to as “Nexus Letters” in support of your pursuit of VA Disability every Wednesday at 7 AM.

Jun 4, 2024

Welcome to The Veterans Disability Nexus, where we provide unique insights and expertise on medical evidence related to VA-rated disabilities. Leah Bucholz, a US Army Veteran, Physician Assistant, & former Compensation & Pension Examiner shares her knowledge related to Independent Medical Opinions often referred to as “Nexus Letters” in support of your pursuit of VA Disability every Wednesday at 7 AM. Leah explores the complex relationships between tinnitus and various conditions in the context of VA disability. She emphasizes the individuality of each case, cautioning that the presence of tinnitus doesn't guarantee a causal link to other conditions like depression, anxiety, or migraines. Leab provides a comprehensive overview of tinnitus, describing it as a common issue characterized by ringing or other internal noises in the ears, often associated with acoustic noise exposure among veterans. She details the secondary conditions frequently connected with tinnitus on a service-connected basis, including migraines, insomnia, anxiety, and depression. She discusses the concept of tinnitus as an intermediate step, potentially leading to other medical conditions indirectly. Take control of your medical evidence related to your benefits and visit https://www.prestigeveteranmctx.com for more information and support.

May 29, 2024

Welcome to The Veterans Disability Nexus, where we provide unique insights and expertise on medical evidence related to VA-rated disabilities. Leah Bucholz, a US Army Veteran, Physician Assistant, & former Compensation & Pension Examiner shares her knowledge related to Independent Medical Opinions often referred to as “Nexus Letters” in support of your pursuit of VA Disability every Wednesday at 7 AM. In this episode, Leah explores the relationship between obstructive sleep apnea (OSA) and gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD) in the context of veterans seeking disability compensation. Leah notes that while OSA is often linked to obesity, there is growing evidence of a connection to GERD. She emphasizes the importance of considering all risk factors, both positive and negative when evaluating a veteran's condition. Leah references various studies and articles that provide evidence of a link between OSA and GERD, highlighting how GERD might contribute to the development or severity of OSA. Throughout the video, she stresses the importance of having an objective, comprehensive medical opinion and encourages viewers to discuss these findings with their doctors to better understand the potential overlap between these conditions in their disability claims. Take control of your medical evidence related to your benefits and visit https://www.prestigeveteranmctx.com for more information and support.

May 28, 2024

Garren, an accredited claims agent and CEO of AVET Appeals explains the process of appealing to the Board of Veterans Appeals for VA disability claims. The discussion between Leah and Garren highlights various options available to veterans during the appeal process, such as selecting a decision review lane and the possibility of requesting a hearing. They emphasize the significance of preparing and presenting new and relevant evidence, the importance of timelines in the appeal process, and the impact of personal interactions during hearings. The video also touches upon the challenges veterans face in navigating the VA system and the importance of providing ample evidence to support their claims. For more info on Garren and AVET Appeals check them out at: https://avetappeals.com/

May 22, 2024

Garen, an accredited claims agent, explains the benefits of the Appeals Modernization Act of 2019, particularly regarding supplemental claims, which can contest decisions made years ago. He emphasizes the necessity of submitting new and relevant evidence to support these claims. Garen and Leah also discuss the weight given to different types of evidence, like lay statements, and the importance of well-grounded claims with a nexus to service. They highlight the significance of gathering substantial evidence to tip the balance in the veteran's favour under the Reasonable Doubt Doctrine. Leah and Garen also acknowledge that while veterans can represent themselves in this process, having professional guidance can be immensely beneficial in navigating the complexities of VA claims and appeals. To contact Garen reach out to: https://avetappeals.com/

May 21, 2024

Leah and Garren Cone, an accredited claims agent and legal advocate for veterans, discuss the appeals process for veterans who receive unfavourable decisions from the VA. Garren explains his role in assisting veterans with appeals, emphasizing the importance of the Appeals Modernization Act (AMA) and the different options available under it. He outlines the higher-level review process, where veterans can challenge VA decisions based on errors in fact or law, without adding new evidence. The discussion also includes the importance of using the correct forms under the AMA and the option for an informal conference during the review process.

May 15, 2024

Leah explains the difference between bruxism and TMJ, highlighting that while TMJ involves the jaw joint, bruxism is about teeth grinding, which can occur consciously or unconsciously, and may be linked to stress or previous oral trauma. She shares her personal experience with both conditions and discusses treatments, which can involve primary care doctors or dentists.

May 14, 2024

Leah from Prestige Veteran Medical Consulting, a U.S. Army veteran and physician assistant, focuses on the relationship between fibromyalgia and mental health conditions like PTSD in the context of VA disability. Leah, addressing requests from veterans, explains that fibromyalgia, characterized by widespread pain, fatigue, and emotional distress, affects about 2% of U.S. adults and is more prevalent in women and those with traumatic or stressful experiences.

May 8, 2024

Leah a former US Army physician assistant and compensation and pension (C&P) examiner, provides insights into the C&P exam for hypertension, often known as high blood pressure. She clarifies that hypertension is defined as having a sustained systolic pressure of 140 or above, or a diastolic pressure over 90, and discusses prehypertension levels. Leah explains that veterans may seek service connection for hypertension if diagnosed during service if it's aggravated by another service-connected disability, or due to specific exposures like Agent Orange for Vietnam veterans.

May 7, 2024

Physician Assistant and prior C&P examiner Leah Bucholz discusses about Hearing Loss and Veterans' Disability. Leah discusses the relationship between military service and hearing loss as it pertains to VA disability claims. She explains her expertise as a certified occupational hearing conservationist, which involves interpreting hearing loss data and operating audio booths. Leah highlights the VA's duty noise exposure level chart, which categorizes various military occupations (MOS) by their probable noise exposure levels (high, moderate, low), aiding veterans in assessing their risk for hearing loss. She emphasizes that even MOS with lower noise exposure can still experience significant hearing loss, drawing on her own experience as a paratrooper. The video also covers research articles on noise-induced hearing loss in the military, noting that both temporary and permanent threshold shifts can cause long-term hearing damage.

May 1, 2024

Physician Assistant and prior C&P examiner Leah Bucholz interviewing Kim and Garren Cone from the AVET Project What is the AVET Project? (American Veterans Empowerment Team). Leah is interviewing Kim and Garren Cone from the AVET Project. This non-profit organization assists veterans, particularly in understanding VA benefits and providing emotional and psychological support. Garen is an accredited claims agent, and Kim is an aspiring one. They discuss the impact of their work, such as helping veterans receive significant monthly benefits, which can be life-changing. The AVET Project also organizes PR&R (Project Recuperation Reintegration) Retreats for combat veterans and their families, offering a safe space to share experiences and receive professional support for issues like PTSD. The video highlights the importance of community and shared experiences in aiding veterans and their families. Leah shares her positive experiences with the AVET Project, including participating in a Veterans Day cruise.

Apr 30, 2024

Physician Assistant and prior C&P examiner Leah Bucholz discusses What to Expect in a PTSD C&P Exam. Leah provides insight into what veterans can expect during a VA Compensation and Pension (C&P) exam for PTSD. Leah emphasizes the importance of being honest and prepared for the exam, which includes filling out a Disability Benefit Questionnaire (DBQ). She explains that the exam, typically conducted by psychologists or psychiatrists, may involve an emotional recounting of experiences related to PTSD. The DBQ covers various aspects, including diagnostic criteria for PTSD, symptoms, and the impact on social and occupational functioning. Leah advises veterans to be forthcoming about their mental health history, substance abuse, and legal issues, as these factors play a crucial role in the evaluation. Additionally, she touches on the possibility of telehealth exams and the significance of distinguishing symptoms attributable to PTSD from other conditions like TBI.

Apr 24, 2024

Physician Assistant and prior C&P examiner Leah Bucholz discusses about Paratroopers and Veteran's Disability. Leah is discussing the intersection of paratrooper activities and VA (Veterans Affairs) disability. She focuses on the specific injury patterns associated with paratrooper duties and the impact these have on VA disability claims. Leah shares her experience as a former paratrooper and medic, referencing her time at the Airborne school at Fort Benning, Georgia, and serving in the 82nd Airborne Division and 101st Airborne Division. She emphasizes the various forces acting on the body during static line jumps, such as quick, intense landings, and the resulting risk of injuries to joints and bones. The video delves into literature reviews and articles that highlight the mechanical forces involved in military parachute operations and the common injuries resulting from them, particularly to the lower back, knees, hips, and in some cases, the head.

Apr 23, 2024

Physician Assistant and prior C&P examiner Leah Bucholz discusses about The Benefits of Psychedelics on PTSD | Ben "Doc" Askins Interview. Leah and former PA Ben "Doc" Askins discuss the integration of psychedelic medicine within veteran healthcare. Ben shares his journey from being a combat medic and National Guard member to pursuing a career in medicine, leading to his involvement in psychedelic science, particularly regarding mental health. He details his experiences with ketamine and MDMA, discussing their therapeutic potential in treating conditions like chronic depression, PTSD, and pain. Despite the challenges of navigating medical regulations and ensuring patient access, there's optimism for the rescheduling of these substances to allow for broader therapeutic use. Ben also touches on his work outside the clinic, including his podcast "The Anti-Heroes Journey" and his book "The Zero with a Thousand Faces," which plays on Joseph Campbell's "Hero's Journey" to advocate for self-compassion and understanding in human behaviour.

Apr 17, 2024

Physician Assistant and prior C&P examiner Leah Bucholz discusses What to Expect in a TMJ Veterans Disability C&P Exam. Leah discusses how veterans can be service-connected for AFib, emphasizing the necessity of a current diagnosis and a nexus linking the condition to an in-service event or another disability. She highlights that AFib can be directly service-connected or related to other issues like cardiac disorders or sleep apnea. Particularly, she focuses on the relationship between AFib and PTSD, referencing studies that show psychological stress contributes to arrhythmias. Leah encourages viewers to empower themselves with this knowledge and consult with professionals for potential service connections.

Apr 16, 2024

Physician Assistant and prior C&P examiner Leah Bucholz discusses What to Expect in a Low Back Pain C&P Exam. Leah discusses what to expect during a lumbar spine or low back pain C&P (Compensation and Pension) exam for VA disability. After filing a claim for a low back condition, veterans receive a packet detailing their examination details. At the exam, physicians use a Disability Benefit Questionnaire (DBQ) to document medical history, current condition, and the results of various tests like range of motion, goniometry, reflex tests, and more. The DBQ also inquires about related conditions like radiculopathy and any other neurological abnormalities. Leah emphasizes the importance of understanding and verbalizing pain points during the exam and recommends viewing her other related videos for a deeper understanding.

Apr 10, 2024

Physician Assistant and prior C&P examiner Leah Bucholz discusses to Obtaining VA Disability for Jet Fuel Exposure is possible. Leah, explains the connection between jet fuel exposure and potential VA disability claims for veterans. She clarifies that while jet fuel exposure is not a disability, the medical conditions resulting from it can be. Various military roles, including those in the Air Force and others working on flight lines, might face exposure to different types of jet fuels like JP5, JP8, and Jet A. This exposure isn't limited to direct contact; it can occur through ingestion, inhalation, or skin contact, sometimes due to environmental contamination like at Camp Lejeune. Health issues from this exposure can range from neurological conditions, including a potential link to Parkinson’s disease, to respiratory, liver, gastrointestinal issues, and possibly renal cancers. To file a VA disability claim, a veteran needs to establish a connection (Nexus) between their current medical condition and their service-related jet fuel exposure.

Apr 9, 2024

Physician Assistant and prior C&P examiner Leah Bucholz discusses What to Expect in a TMJ Veterans Disability C&P Exam. Leah discusses Multiple Sclerosis (MS) with Veterans Affairs (VA) disability. She explains that MS, an autoimmune disease affecting the central nervous system, can be linked to service-related factors, including exposure or symptoms that began during active duty. MS has various types, including Clinically Isolated Syndrome, Relapsing-Remitting MS, Primary Progressive MS, and Secondary Progressive MS, each with distinct characteristics and progression patterns. For VA disability, a current MS diagnosis, an in-service event, and a nexus linking the event to MS are essential. Leah highlights the VA’s presumptive criteria, which considers MS diagnosed within seven years of service exit as service-connected if it’s compensable to a 10% degree. She suggests that medical records can help establish a connection even if diagnosed later.

Apr 3, 2024

Physician Assistant and prior C&P examiner Leah Bucholz discusses about 11B Infantryman and Veterans Disability. Leah discusses the specific occupational challenges and long-term physical impacts faced by 11B Infantrymen in the U.S. Army. She explains how the MOS (Military Occupational Specialty) Smart Book outlines the physical and skill requirements for different army roles, highlighting how these requirements can lead to disabilities eligible for compensation. Leah focuses on the 11B Infantryman, presenting the D.A. Pam (Department of Army Pamphlet) which details the major duties and physical demands at various skill levels, from private to senior non-commissioned officers. This includes tasks like carrying heavy loads, identifying targets at long distances, and physical endurance challenges. She points out that these documented requirements can be crucial for veterans seeking disability compensation, especially in cases where injuries or strains weren’t well recorded during service.

Apr 2, 2024

Physician Assistant and prior C&P examiner Leah Bucholz discusses What to Expect in a TMJ Veterans Disability C&P Exam. Leah discusses common conditions linked to PTSD in veterans. She outlines five key secondary conditions: headaches (including migraines and tension headaches), sexual dysfunction disorders (often related to PTSD treatments like SSRIs), gastrointestinal disorders (like IBS and GERD, connected to stress), sleep apnea (controversially linked to PTSD, with emphasis on showing causation), and various conditions stemming from PTSD-related weight gain, such as plantar fasciitis, coronary artery disease, hypertension, diabetes, and sleep apnea. Leah highlights the importance of understanding these connections for veterans seeking disability claims and provides references to studies and resources for further information.

Mar 27, 2024

Physician Assistant and prior C&P examiner Leah Bucholz discusses What to Expect in a TMJ Veterans Disability C&P Exam. Leah discusses the Temporal Mandibular Joint Disorder (TMJD), a condition many veterans suffer from, and its relationship with VA disability. TMJD can be related to service either primarily (diagnosed during service and persistent thereafter) or secondarily (related to other conditions like mental health issues or facial injuries). Veterans filing a claim for TMJD will likely undergo a Compensation and Pension (C&P) exam, mostly conducted by contract companies, not the VA. During the exam, dental professionals evaluate the veteran using a Disability Benefits Questionnaire for TMJ, which focuses heavily on the range of motion of the jaw. Ratings for disability due to TMJD can range up to 50% based on several variables, including diet and jaw movement limitations. Leah emphasizes consulting legal professionals to understand the ratings and refers to her other videos for more insights on TMJD.

Mar 26, 2024

Physician Assistant and prior C&P examiner Leah Bucholz discusses about Insomnia and Tinnitus in Veterans' Disability. Leah provides an overview of how insomnia and tinnitus are considered in the context of VA disability. She explains that insomnia, defined by the DSM-5, is a mental health condition rated according to the schedule of mental health ratings, with specific diagnostic criteria including dissatisfaction with sleep quality and issues like difficulty in falling or staying asleep. Leah emphasizes the possibility of insomnia being service-connected directly if diagnosed during service or secondarily due to other conditions like tinnitus. She cites several studies highlighting the link between tinnitus and mental health issues in veterans. Finally, Leah briefly discusses the VA's rating system for mental health disorders, which ranges from 0% for mild symptoms to 100% for total occupational and social impairment. She advises veterans to consult legal professionals for claim filing and strategy and suggests discussing these issues with healthcare providers for potential support in claims.

Mar 20, 2024

Physician Assistant and prior C&P examiner Leah Bucholz discusses What happens in a C&P examination for Knee pain. Physician Assistant and prior C&P examiner Leah Bucholz discusses What to Expect in a Knee Pain C&P Exam. Leah offers an in-depth guide for veterans undergoing a Compensation and Pension (C&P) exam for knee pain. As a US Army veteran, former C&P examiner, and physician assistant, Leah discusses various knee conditions eligible for VA disability, including patellofemoral pain syndrome, meniscal tears, and arthritis. She explains how these conditions can be service-connected directly or secondarily due to other injuries or issues like weight gain. The video outlines the preparation for a C&P exam, detailing the contents of the pre-exam packet and the importance of the Disability Benefits Questionnaire (DBQ). If you would like more information on our services including Independent Medical Opinion Letters often referred to as nexus letters and records review, please check us out here: https://www.prestigeveteranmctx.com/ #veterans #va #medical

Mar 19, 2024

Physician Assistant and prior C&P examiner Leah Bucholz discusses What to Expect in a Hypothyroidism C&P Exam. Leah explains hypothyroidism and its relevance to VA disability evaluations. Hypothyroidism, often autoimmune (Hashimoto's thyroiditis), is characterized by an underactive thyroid, leading to symptoms like weight gain, fatigue, muscle weakness, menstrual changes, and memory issues. Leah discusses how hypothyroidism can be primary (diagnosed in active duty) or secondary (caused/worsened by another service-connected disorder). She advises veterans on the Compensation and Pension (C&P) exam process following a disability claim, emphasizing the role of the Disability Benefits Questionnaire (DBQ) in documenting symptoms and their impact on daily life and work.

Mar 13, 2024

Physician Assistant and prior C&P examiner Leah Bucholz discusses What to Expect in a Fibromyalgia C&P Exam. Leah explains the process and what to expect in a C&P exam for fibromyalgia. She describes fibromyalgia as a chronic pain syndrome characterized by sleep disturbances, fatigue, headache, and other symptoms, affecting mainly middle-aged females. She discusses how fibromyalgia can be service-connected directly (if diagnosed during active duty) or secondarily (as an aggravation of other conditions like PTSD). Leah provides a detailed walkthrough of the Disability Benefits Questionnaire (DBQ) used in the C&P exam, covering aspects like symptom assessment, tender points examination, and the impact on daily activities. She also explains the importance of this questionnaire in determining VA disability ratings, which vary based on the severity and frequency of symptoms.

Mar 12, 2024

Physician Assistant and prior C&P examiner Leah Bucholz discusses What to Expect in a TMJ Veterans Disability C&P Exam. Leah provides an informative guide for veterans about the Compensation and Pension (C&P) exam specifically related to scars. She explains that veterans can get service-connected for scars either on a primary basis (directly incurred during service) or on a secondary basis (related to another service-connected disability). Leah emphasizes the overwhelming nature of the information provided by the VA but assures veterans that it's clearly outlined in the packets they receive, which include details about the exam and the Disability Benefits Questionnaire (DBQ). She walks through the DBQ, highlighting the importance of each section such as scar locations, pain, stability, and how they impact functionality and ability to work. Leah urges veterans to report pain during the exam and explains that the ratings depend on various factors, including the size and characteristics of the scars.

Mar 6, 2024

Physician Assistant and prior C&P examiner Leah Bucholz discusses What is the difference between a Nexus letter and an IMO in VA disability. Leah explains the terminologies used in the context of VA disability claims. The term "Nexus letter" is commonly known among veterans and is considered slang for "Independent Medical Opinion" (IMO). The presenter prefers the term IMO, viewing it as a more professional and legal definition. They also introduce the concept of a "Nexus statement," which is a declaration about whether a condition is "as likely as not" linked to military service. An IMO is a medical opinion formed after reviewing a veteran's files or sometimes directly examining the veteran, to determine the connection, or "nexus," between their service and their medical condition. In essence, a Nexus letter and an IMO are essentially the same, with the Nexus letter specifically referring to the explanation of the connection between the veteran's service and their condition.

Mar 5, 2024

Physician Assistant and prior C&P examiner Leah Bucholz discusses about Ménière's Disease and Veterans' Disability. Leah discusses Ménière's disease in the context of VA disability compensation. She explains that many service members and veterans suffer from Ménière's disease, an inner ear disorder causing vertigo, dizziness, disorientation, hearing loss, tinnitus, nausea, and sweating. Symptoms can last from minutes to 24 hours and may be confused with other conditions like BPPV. Leah emphasizes the importance of consulting healthcare providers for proper diagnosis. She outlines how Ménière's disease can be service-connected on a primary basis (directly during service) or a secondary basis. A significant aspect is its association with acoustic noise exposure, referencing a study on post-traumatic Ménière's disease.

Mar 1, 2024

Physician Assistant and prior C&P examiner Leah Bucholz discusses Plantar Fasciitis and VA disability compensation. Leah discusses plantar fasciitis in the context of VA disability. She highlights that many veterans suffer from this condition, often linked to their service, either as a primary issue diagnosed during service or secondary to other service-related disabilities. Leah explains that plantar fasciitis is an inflammation of the connective tissue on the foot's bottom, causing significant pain and discomfort. Risk factors include age over 40, overuse, certain exercises, female gender, foot structure issues like flat feet or high arches, obesity, and prolonged standing or walking. Treatment options she suggests range from physical therapy, using cold packs, and night splints, to more advanced techniques like orthotripsy or steroid injections. If you would like more information on our services including Independent Medical Opinion Letters often referred to as nexus letters and records review, please check us out here: https://www.prestigeveteranmctx.com/ #veterans #va #medical

Feb 28, 2024

Physician Assistant and prior C&P examiner Leah Bucholz discuss about Hemorrhoids and IBS in Veteran's Disabilities. Leah explains the connection between hemorrhoids, IBS (Irritable Bowel Syndrome), constipation, and veterans' VA disability claims. She clarifies that hemorrhoids, defined by the Cleveland Clinic as swollen veins in the anus and rectum, can be painful and cause bleeding. Risk factors include obesity, pregnancy, low-fiber diets, chronic constipation or diarrhea, heavy lifting, and prolonged sitting. Leah discusses how veterans can seek service connection for hemorrhoids, either directly if diagnosed on active duty or secondarily if related to other service-connected conditions like IBS or chronic constipation. She references studies highlighting the link between dietary changes, IBS, chronic constipation, and the development of hemorrhoids. Leah also outlines the VA disability ratings for hemorrhoids, stressing the importance of consulting legal professionals for current information.

Feb 27, 2024

Physician Assistant and prior C&P examiner Leah Bucholz discusses Hiatal Hernia and Weight Gain in Veterans' Disability. Leah explains the relationship between hiatal hernia, obesity, and VA disability ratings for veterans. She describes a hiatal hernia as a condition where the upper stomach bulges through the diaphragm into the chest cavity, often overlapping with GERD symptoms. Leah emphasizes that obesity, a significant risk factor for hiatal hernia, increases intra-abdominal pressure, contributing to the condition. Symptoms include heartburn, regurgitation, difficulty swallowing, and chest or abdominal pain. She discusses both primary and secondary service connections for VA disability, explaining that veterans diagnosed with hiatal hernia during active duty can be service-connected. Leah also addresses how obesity can be an intermediate link between a service-connected disability and a hiatal hernia, particularly if the disability leads to weight gain.

Feb 21, 2024

Physician Assistant and prior C&P examiner Leah Bucholz discusses How can Medical Consultants Boost Your IBS Rating by 30%. Leah explains the intricacies of Irritable Bowel Syndrome (IBS) in the context of VA disability ratings. She clarifies that IBS, a functional gastrointestinal disorder, often requires a diagnosis of exclusion, and mentions the Rome criteria used in its diagnosis. Leah categorizes IBS into three types: IBS-C (constipation), IBS-D (diarrhea), and IBS-M (mixed), and discusses its potential connection to military service either on a primary or secondary basis. She particularly notes its prevalence among Gulf War veterans. Regarding the VA disability rating, she states that IBS can be rated at 0%, 10%, or 30%, with 30% being the highest. This highest rating is given for severe symptoms like constant abdominal pain, alternating diarrhea and constipation. Leah emphasizes the importance of the Disability Benefits Questionnaire (DBQ) in assessing these conditions and suggests her other videos for further guidance, especially on IBS secondary to PTSD.

Feb 20, 2024

Physician Assistant and prior C&P examiner Leah Bucholz discusses about Herpes Simplex Virus (HSV) and VA Disability. Leah discusses the implications of herpes simplex virus (HSV) with VA disability. She explains that herpes, a common and transmittable disease, can be service-connected if it is shown to be related to military service. Veterans may be eligible for service connection for HSV if diagnosed during service (primary service connection) or if it's linked to another service-connected disability, such as PTSD from combat or sexual assault. Leah highlights the differences between HSV-1 (typically oral herpes) and HSV-2 (usually genital herpes), noting the increasing instances of crossover between the two. She mentions how stress, including that from PTSD, can aggravate herpes outbreaks, referencing various studies and resources like the CDC and WHO.

Feb 14, 2024

Physician Assistant and prior C&P examiner Leah Bucholz discusses HIV in Veterans Disability. Leah B. explores how HIV can be a service-connected disability for veterans. She highlights the VA's role as the largest provider of HIV care in the U.S., serving over 30,000 veterans, and emphasizes the prevalence of HIV among veterans, reservists, and active duty service members. Leah discusses primary and secondary service connections for HIV, where the primary connection relates to HIV contracted during service and the secondary involves post-service contraction linked to a service-related condition. She also addresses challenges in establishing service connections, especially differentiating between willful misconduct and conditions like substance abuse disorders linked to service-connected mental health issues. Leah further reviews the VA's disability ratings for HIV-related illnesses, ranging from asymptomatic cases to advanced AIDS with varying levels of disability compensation.

Feb 7, 2024

Physician Assistant and prior C&P examiner Leah Bucholz discusses about 50% For Sleep Apnea in VA Disability. Leah discusses VA disability ratings for sleep apnea, with a focus on the 50% rating. Although ratings may change and there's been talk of alterations recently, at the time of the video, the ratings have remained stable. Sleep apnea can be classified as obstructive, central, or mixed type. The VA assigns ratings of 0%, 30%, 50%, or 100% to sleep apnea based on severity and required treatments. A 0% rating means the veteran has the disorder but is asymptomatic. A 30% rating indicates daytime sleepiness unimproved by sufficient sleep. A 50% rating is given to those using a breathing device like CPAP or a mouth guard. The 100% rating, which is rare, is assigned for chronic respiratory failure, requiring a tracheostomy or having chloropulmonol. Leah emphasizes the difference between having a breathing device and requiring its use, as this distinction can affect the rating percentage. She advises those navigating the rating system to consult a legal professional or VA-accredited representative for guidance.

Feb 6, 2024

Physician Assistant and prior C&P examiner Leah Bucholz discusses Plantar Fasciitis and VA disability compensation. Leah discusses VA disability ratings for sleep apnea, with a focus on the 50% rating. Although ratings may change and there's been talk of alterations recently, at the time of the video, the ratings have remained stable. Sleep apnea can be classified as obstructive, central, or mixed type. The VA assigns ratings of 0%, 30%, 50%, or 100% to sleep apnea based on severity and required treatments. A 0% rating means the veteran has the disorder but is asymptomatic. A 30% rating indicates daytime sleepiness unimproved by sufficient sleep. A 50% rating is given to those using a breathing device like CPAP or a mouth guard. The 100% rating, which is rare, is assigned for chronic respiratory failure, requiring a tracheostomy or having chloropulmonol. Leah emphasizes the difference between having a breathing device and requiring its use, as this distinction can affect the rating percentage. She advises those navigating the rating system to consult a legal professional or VA-accredited representative for guidance.

Jan 31, 2024

Physician Assistant and prior C&P examiner Leah Bucholz discusses Frozen Shoulder Syndrome and Veterans' Disability. Leah discusses VA disability ratings for sleep apnea, with a focus on the 50% rating. Although ratings may change and there's been talk of alterations recently, at the time of the video, the ratings have remained stable. Sleep apnea can be classified as obstructive, central, or mixed type. The VA assigns ratings of 0%, 30%, 50%, or 100% to sleep apnea based on severity and required treatments. A 0% rating means the veteran has the disorder but is asymptomatic. A 30% rating indicates daytime sleepiness unimproved by sufficient sleep. A 50% rating is given to those using a breathing device like CPAP or a mouth guard. The 100% rating, which is rare, is assigned for chronic respiratory failure, requiring a tracheostomy or having chloropulmonol. Leah emphasizes the difference between having a breathing device and requiring its use, as this distinction can affect the rating percentage. She advises those navigating the rating system to consult a legal professional or VA-accredited representative for guidance.

Jan 30, 2024

Physician Assistant and prior C&P examiner Leah Bucholz discusses Radiculopathy in Veterans' Disability. Leah explains radiculopathy and its relevance to VA disability. She describes radiculopathy as a condition characterized by numbness, pain, and tingling in extremities, which can arise from various levels of the spine, including cervical, thoracic, and lumbar. Leah B clarifies the difference between radiculopathy and peripheral neuropathy, emphasizing that radiculopathy originates from the spine, whereas peripheral neuropathy arises from peripheral nerve damage. She discusses how veterans can be service-connected for radiculopathy either as a primary condition if diagnosed during active duty, or secondarily related to spinal degeneration. Treatment options like traction, steroid injections, and surgery are mentioned.

Jan 24, 2024

Physician Assistant and prior C&P examiner Leah Bucholz discusses Gout and Hypertension in Veterans' Disability. Leah discusses the connection between gout and hypertension, particularly in the context of veterans' disability claims. Gout, an inflammatory arthritis caused by hyperuricemia (excess uric acid in the body), often presents as painful flare-ups, commonly in the big toe. Leah highlights risk factors like being male, obesity, certain health conditions (e.g., hypertension, diabetes), and lifestyle choices (e.g., alcohol consumption, diet high in purines). She explains how hypertension and the use of diuretics for its treatment can be significant risk factors for developing gout. Leah then guides veterans on how gout can be service-connected, either directly or secondarily, due to other conditions or risk factors like obesity or mental health issues with alcohol use. She references several research articles that support the relationship between hypertension and gout, emphasizing the importance of discussing these findings with healthcare providers to explore potential service-related connections.

Jan 23, 2024

Physician Assistant and prior C&P examiner Leah Bucholz discusses about Hip Pain Secondary to Knee Injuries in Veterans Disability. Leah discusses the connection between hip pain and knee injuries in the context of VA disability. She emphasizes that hip pain can be service-connected either directly (due to an injury sustained while on active duty) or secondarily, where an existing service-connected condition, like a knee injury, leads to hip problems. Using her own experience with a foot injury leading to hip pain, she illustrates how impairments in one area can impact others. Leah highlights research on how knee osteoarthritis affects hip and ankle mechanics and the significance of the kinetic chain theory, indicating that issues in one joint can influence adjacent joints.

Jan 17, 2024

Physician Assistant and prior C&P examiner Leah Bucholz discusses about Gout and VA Disability. Leah discusses gout and its relevance to VA disability. She explains that many veterans suffer from gout, which is a painful form of inflammatory arthritis that often affects the big toe joint. Leah highlights that gout is primarily caused by high levels of uric acid in the body due to factors such as diet, alcohol consumption, and kidney dysfunction. She also mentions that gout can be connected to VA disability on either a primary or secondary basis, with common secondary connections including mental health conditions with alcohol use disorder, chronic kidney disease, hypertension, and obesity. Leah emphasizes the importance of establishing a medical diagnosis, a link to service, and a connection between the condition and service for VA disability claims related to gout.

Jan 16, 2024

Physician Assistant and prior C&P examiner Leah Bucholz discusses How to Overcome Patellofemoral Pain Syndrome. Leah explains Patellofemoral Pain Syndrome (PFPS) in her video "How to Overcome Patellofemoral Pain Syndrome | VA Disability". PFPS is a common anterior knee pain condition among U.S. Army veterans and active service members. Leah uses a knee model to describe the anatomy involved in PFPS, including the patellar tendon, patella, femur, tibia, fibula, and various ligaments. She mentions that PFPS is generally an overuse injury potentially linked to kneecap alignment issues, leading to conditions like chondromalacia and arthritis. The video also covers how veterans can get service connected for PFPS or related anterior knee pain through direct service connection (if injury or PFPS started during service) or secondary service connection (if PFPS is caused or worsened by another service-connected condition).

Jan 10, 2024

Physician Assistant and prior C&P examiner Leah Bucholz discusses What to Expect in a Neck Pain & Cervical Spine Conditions C&P Exam. Leah is explaining the process of a C&P exam for veterans with neck pain or cervical spine conditions. She emphasizes that the process should not be a surprise as it is straightforward, though it can be confusing. Leah mentions that veterans will receive a packet with details about the exam, including the appointment time, location, and examiner information. The key component of the exam is the Disability Benefits Questionnaire (DBQ), which she displays and explains in detail. This questionnaire covers various aspects such as diagnosis, symptoms, range of motion, and impact on daily functions. She also touches on other topics like flare-ups, functional loss, radiculopathy, and assistive devices. Additionally, Leah discusses the possibility of a medical opinion being requested to determine if the condition is service-related.

Jan 9, 2024

Physician Assistant and prior C&P examiner Leah Bucholz discusses What to Expect in a Hip Pain C&P Exam. Leah explains the process of a compensation and pension (C&P) exam for hip pain. She highlights how hip pain can be service-connected either as a primary condition (like an injury during active duty) or secondarily (due to other service-related conditions). When filing a claim for VA disability, veterans can do it alone or with legal assistance and will receive a packet detailing the exam specifics. The key component of the exam is the Disability Benefit Questionnaire (DBQ), which assesses the veteran’s hip condition, including diagnosis, onset, flare-ups, functional loss, and range of motion. Leah emphasizes the importance of understanding the DBQ and range of motion measurements, suggesting veterans view it before the exam to reduce anxiety and better prepare.

Jan 3, 2024

Physician Assistant and prior C&P examiner Leah Bucholz discusses Plantar Fasciitis and VA disability compensation. Leah explains the Compensation and Pension (C&P) exam process for veterans with shoulder conditions. She outlines that the exam focuses on the Disability Benefits Questionnaire (DBQ), which the examiner uses to assess the condition with VA regulations and other evidence to determine service connection and disability rating. Leah emphasizes the possibility of primary service connection (injury during duty) and secondary service connection (shoulder pain caused by another service-connected disability). She also discusses what happens during the exam, including the examiner's credentials (which may vary but must be a medically trained professional), the importance of accurately describing symptoms and history, and the thorough physical examination of the shoulder.

Jan 2, 2024

Physician Assistant and prior C&P examiner Leah Bucholz discusses What to Expect in a Shoulder Pain Exam. Leah explains the Compensation and Pension (C&P) exam process for veterans with shoulder conditions. She outlines that the exam focuses on the Disability Benefits Questionnaire (DBQ), which the examiner uses to assess the condition with VA regulations and other evidence to determine service connection and disability rating. Leah emphasizes the possibility of primary service connection (injury during duty) and secondary service connection (shoulder pain caused by another service-connected disability). She also discusses what happens during the exam, including the examiner's credentials (which may vary but must be a medically trained professional), the importance of accurately describing symptoms and history, and the thorough physical examination of the shoulder.

Dec 27, 2023

Physician Assistant and prior C&P examiner Leah Bucholz discusses What to Expect in an Ankle Pain C&P Exam. Leah provides an in-depth guide for veterans undergoing an ankle pain Compensation and Pension (C&P) exam for VA disability. Leah discusses how ankle injuries can be service-connected, either through direct injuries during active duty or secondarily due to other service-connected disabilities. She explains the process of scheduling and preparing for the C&P exam, emphasizing the importance of understanding and reviewing the Disability Benefits Questionnaire (DBQ) sent by the VA. Leah provides a detailed walkthrough of the ankle condition DBQ, highlighting key sections such as medical history, symptoms, functional impairment, range of motion assessments, joint stability, surgeries, and the impact of the condition on the veteran’s life and work.

Dec 26, 2023

Physician Assistant and prior C&P examiner Leah Bucholz discusses What to Expect in a Shoulder Pain Exam. Leah discusses the intricacies of obtaining a 50% disability rating for service-connected migraines in the Veterans Affairs (VA) system. She emphasizes that many veterans aim to increase their disability rating from 30% to 50% but often face denials due to misunderstandings about the criteria. The key criteria for a 50% rating include very frequent, prostrating, and economically debilitating migraines. Leah explains that "prostrating" migraines are severely debilitating and disrupt normal activities. She notes the importance of maintaining a detailed log of migraine occurrences and symptoms, as this can provide necessary evidence of their impact. The difference between 30% and 50% ratings hinges on the "severe economic inadaptability" caused by the migraines. This is often evidenced by factors like frequent sick leave, doctor's notes, or supervisor reports indicating significant work impact.

Dec 20, 2023

Physician Assistant and prior C&P examiner Leah Bucholz discusses What to Expect in a Shoulder Pain Exam. Leah discusses the intricacies of VA disability ratings for depression among veterans. She explains that depression, a common mental health disorder among veterans, is characterized by various symptoms lasting more than two weeks as defined by the DSM-5. Leah highlights that both psychologists and psychiatrists, as well as mid-level providers like nurse practitioners and physician assistants, can diagnose and treat depression. She distinguishes between primary and secondary service connections for depression, with primary relating to incidents during active duty and secondary stemming from other service-connected disabilities. Ratings for depression can range from 0 to 100, depending on the severity and impact on life, with a 100 rating indicating severe impairment, including self-harm and suicidal tendencies.

Dec 19, 2023

Physician Assistant and prior C&P examiner Leah Bucholz discusses Psychedelic Medicine with Physician Assistant Ben "Doc" Askins who is a US Army combat Veteran and trailblazer in Psychedelic medicine. Leah and former PA Ben "Doc" Askins discuss the integration of psychedelic medicine within veteran healthcare. Ben shares his journey from being a combat medic and National Guard member to pursuing a career in medicine, leading to his involvement in psychedelic science, particularly regarding mental health. He details his experiences with ketamine and MDMA, discussing their therapeutic potential in treating conditions like chronic depression, PTSD, and pain. Despite the challenges of navigating medical regulations and ensuring patient access, there's optimism for rescheduling these substances to allow for broader therapeutic use. Ben also touches on his work outside the clinic, including his podcast "The Anti-Heroes Journey" and his book "The Zero with a Thousand Faces," which plays on Joseph Campbell's "Hero's Journey" to advocate for self-compassion and understanding in human behaviour. Please check out his podcast and most importantly his awesome new book Anti-Hero's Journey: https://www.antiherosjourney.com If you would like more information on our services including Independent Medical Opinion Letters often referred to as nexus letters and records review, please check us out here: https://www.prestigeveteranmctx.com

Dec 13, 2023

Physician Assistant and prior C&P examiner Leah Bucholz discusses about Migraines and PTSD in Veterans' Disability. Leah discusses the potential link between migraines and PTSD in the context of VA disability claims. Not a legal professional but experienced in assisting veterans with medical opinions for their cases, Leah explains different headache types, focusing on migraines and their association with PTSD. Research suggests that PTSD may increase the likelihood of migraines due to shared mechanisms like reduced serotonin and norepinephrine levels. Veterans with PTSD are notably more prone to migraines. Leah elaborates on claiming migraines in VA disability, either as a primary condition or secondary to a service-connected issue like PTSD.

Dec 12, 2023

Physician Assistant and prior C&P examiner Leah Bucholz discusses about Top 5 Secondary Conditions to PTSD. Leah discusses common conditions linked to PTSD in veterans. She outlines five key secondary conditions: headaches (including migraines and tension headaches), sexual dysfunction disorders (often related to PTSD treatments like SSRIs), gastrointestinal disorders (like IBS and GERD, connected to stress), sleep apnea (controversially linked to PTSD, with emphasis on showing causation), and various conditions stemming from PTSD-related weight gain, such as plantar fasciitis, coronary artery disease, hypertension, diabetes, and sleep apnea. Leah highlights the importance of understanding these connections for veterans seeking disability claims and provides references to studies and resources for further information.

Dec 6, 2023

Physician Assistant and prior C&P examiner Leah Bucholz discusses about 11B Infantryman and Veterans Disability | All you Need to Know. Leah discusses the specific occupational challenges and long-term physical impacts faced by 11B Infantrymen in the U.S. Army. She explains how the MOS (Military Occupational Specialty) Smart Book outlines the physical and skill requirements for different army roles, highlighting how these requirements can lead to disabilities eligible for compensation. Leah focuses on the 11B Infantryman, presenting the D.A. Pam (Department of Army Pamphlet) which details the major duties and physical demands at various skill levels, from private to senior non-commissioned officers. This includes tasks like carrying heavy loads, identifying targets at long distances, and physical endurance challenges. She points out that these documented requirements can be crucial for veterans seeking disability compensation, especially in cases where injuries or strains weren’t well recorded during service.

Dec 5, 2023

Physician Assistant and prior C&P examiner Leah Bucholz discusses about Can VA Doctors Write a Nexus Letter? Leah addresses the challenges veterans face in getting assistance from VA healthcare providers for filling out forms such as DBQs, Nexus letters, and aid and attendance forms. She notes that veterans often encounter reluctance from providers who cite reasons such as conflict of interest or lack of time. Leah aims to empower veterans by discussing the VA's policy, VHA Directive 1134, which mandates VA healthcare providers to assist in form completion. She highlights key sections of the directive, emphasizing that VA providers are required to provide medical opinions (Nexus statements) and complete DBQs as part of their duties, contrary to the common belief of a conflict of interest. The directive also covers the completion of various forms, including those for benefits claims and handicap parking. Leah urges veterans to approach their providers respectfully and guides how to request form completion, particularly for mental health DBQs, where she recommends a neutral provider to maintain the integrity of the patient-provider relationship.

Nov 29, 2023

Physician Assistant and prior C&P examiner Leah Bucholz discusses about VA disability tips for Navy divers. Leah discusses VA disability tips for Navy divers and divers from other branches. She highlights a VA directive from 2007 that discusses the medical consequences of diving and aims to inform VA decision-makers about these consequences to help veterans who were divers receive proper consideration for benefits claims. Leah covers various diving-related disorders and disabilities, including decompression sickness, musculoskeletal issues, skin problems, neurological abnormalities, hearing deficits, and more. She emphasizes the importance of divers being knowledgeable about these issues and suggests downloading the directive for reference when interacting with medical professionals.

Nov 28, 2023

Physician Assistant and prior C&P examiner Leah Bucholz discusses What are Nexus Letters for Veterans? Nexus letters are technical reports, also referred to as independent medical opinions, that establish a link between an injury or illness and a veteran's service. Such letters, usually drafted by medical professionals like doctors, nurse practitioners, or PAs, detail how one condition relates to another or to the veteran's service. The letters can range from a few sentences to lengthy reports, with an emphasis on presenting a rational connection. Leah differentiates between primary and secondary service connections, detailing examples for each. Primary connections have a direct relationship to one's service, while secondary connections relate a condition to another service-connected condition. She also highlights presumptive service connections that are assumed by the VA based on specific criteria. Leah emphasizes that while Nexus letters determine service-related connections, Disability Benefits Questionnaires (DBQs) help ascertain the rating.

Nov 22, 2023

Welcome to The Veterans Disability Nexus , where we provide unique insights and expertise on medical evidence related to VA-rated disabilities. Leah Bucholz, a US Army Veteran, Physician Assistant, & former Compensation & Pension Examiner shares her knowledge related to Independent Medical Opinions often referred to as “Nexus Letters” in support of your pursuit of VA Disability every Wednesday at 7AM. In this episode, Leah explains the usefulness of the Department of the Army Pamphlet (DA PAM) 611-21, also known as the MOS Smartbook. This resource provides detailed information on the specific requirements and duties associated with different Military Occupational Specialties (MOS) in the Army, useful for understanding the physical demands placed on soldiers. Leah emphasizes how this pamphlet aids in assessing whether veterans meet retention standards, need reclassification, or in her current role, helps document and understand the physical requirements of various army roles, especially for disability claims. She demonstrates how the MOS Smartbook is interactive and live, walking viewers through an example of finding information for an 11 Bravo (infantryman) role, detailing the varying physical tasks required at different skill levels. Take control of your medical evidence related to your benefits and visit https://www.prestigeveteranmctx.com for more information and support. #veterans #va #medical

Nov 22, 2023

Physician Assistant and prior C&P examiner Leah Bucholz discusses What to Expect in Headaches C&P Exam. Leah provides detailed insights into the CMP exam process for veterans seeking disability claims for headaches. Leah explains that veterans will receive paperwork indicating their CMP exam details, including the examiner's information. She suggests researching the examiner in advance, although notes this might increase anxiety for some. On exam day, veterans should expect to complete paperwork and discuss their headache history, including type, duration, associated symptoms, medication, and impact on daily life and work. The examiner will use a Disability Benefits Questionnaire (DBQ) available on the VA website, which matches the rating criteria for disability. Leah clarifies that the exam might lead to an increase in existing benefits or new service connections, depending on the severity and impact of the headaches. If you would like more information on our services including Independent Medical Opinion Letters often referred to as nexus letters and records review, please check us out here: https://www.prestigeveteranmctx.com/ #veterans #va #medical

Nov 16, 2023

Physician Assistant and prior C&P examiner Leah Bucholz discusses Primary or Direct VA Disability service connection for Obstructive Sleep Apnea. Leah addresses the issue of obstructive sleep apnea (OSA) in veterans and its relation to VA disability claims. She explains that OSA occurs when throat muscles relax during sleep, causing airway obstruction. For a VA service connection, she notes that a sleep apnea diagnosis must be confirmed by a polysomnogram (sleep study). Leah discusses two types of service connections: primary and secondary. Primary connection is possible if OSA was diagnosed during active duty, while secondary connection relates to OSA resulting from another service-connected condition like mental health disorders or medication side effects. She emphasizes the importance of supporting evidence, such as buddy statements, to substantiate undiagnosed OSA during service. If you would like more information on our services including Independent Medical Opinion Letters often referred to as nexus letters and records review, please check us out here: https://www.prestigeveteranmctx.com// #veterans #va #medical

Nov 15, 2023

Welcome to The Veterans Disability Nexus , where we provide unique insights and expertise on medical evidence related to VA-rated disabilities. Leah Bucholz, a US Army Veteran, Physician Assistant, & former Compensation & Pension Examiner shares her knowledge related to Independent Medical Opinions often referred to as “Nexus Letters” in support of your pursuit of VA Disability every Wednesday at 7AM. In this episode, Leah addresses questions related to Veterans Affairs (VA) disability claims, specifically focusing on gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD) and irritable bowel syndrome (IBS) concerning other service-connected conditions. The speaker confirms that medications for service-connected orthopaedic ailments, such as NSAIDs, can lead to GERD and highlights the possibility of hypertension being linked to orthopaedic conditions due to pain, NSAID use, and weight gain. They express scepticism about hypertension's direct link to tinnitus but acknowledge connections between tinnitus and mental health issues, migraines, and vertigo. The speaker advises veterans whose claims, like GERD secondary to NSAID use, are denied, to carefully review their rating decision letters and consider various avenues for recourse. Take control of your medical evidence related to your benefits and visit https://www.prestigeveteranmctx.com for more information and support. #veterans #va #medical #health * This Podcast episode is not medical or legal advice and should not be substituted for advisement from your VSO, accredited agent, or Attorney. #veterans #va #medical

Nov 9, 2023

Physician Assistant and prior C&P examiner Leah Bucholz discusses Obstructive Sleep Apnea and Neck pain in VA Disability Leah explores the relationship between obstructive sleep apnea (OSA) and neck pain, particularly in the context of veterans' service-connected disabilities. She explains how OSA can be directly or secondarily service-connected, including connections to PTSD, mental health conditions, orthopaedic conditions, and weight gain. Focusing on neck pain, Leah details how cervical spine pathology can contribute to OSA, referencing various academic articles that support this link. These articles discuss how cervical spine issues, including osteochondromas, osteophytes, and misalignments, can exert pressure on the upper airway, leading to OSA. If you would like more information on our services including Independent Medical Opinion Letters often referred to as nexus letters and records review, please check us out here: https://www.prestigeveteranmctx.com/ #veterans #va #medical

Nov 8, 2023

Physician Assistant and prior C&P examiner Leah Bucholz discusses Compensation and Pension exams for Erectile Dysfunction. Leah explores the relationship between obstructive sleep apnea (OSA) and neck pain, particularly in the context of veterans' service-connected disabilities. She explains how OSA can be directly or secondarily service-connected, including connections to PTSD, mental health conditions, orthopedic conditions, and weight gain. Focusing on neck pain, Leah details how cervical spine pathology can contribute to OSA, referencing various academic articles that support this link. These articles discuss how cervical spine issues, including osteochondromas, osteophytes, and misalignments, can exert pressure on the upper airway, leading to OSA. If you would like more information on our services including Independent Medical Opinion Letters often referred to as nexus letters and records review, please check us out here: https://www.prestigeveteranmctx.com/ #veterans #va #medical

Nov 2, 2023

Physician Assistant and prior C&P examiner Leah Bucholz discusses Central Sleep Apnea and TBI in VA disability. Leah explores the relationship between obstructive sleep apnea (OSA) and neck pain, particularly in the context of veterans' service-connected disabilities. She explains how OSA can be directly or secondarily service-connected, including connections to PTSD, mental health conditions, orthopaedic conditions, and weight gain. Focusing on neck pain, Leah details how cervical spine pathology can contribute to OSA, referencing various academic articles that support this link. These articles discuss how cervical spine issues, including osteochondromas, osteophytes, and misalignments, can exert pressure on the upper airway, leading to OSA. If you would like more information on our services including Independent Medical Opinion Letters often referred to as nexus letters and records review, please check us out here: https://www.prestigeveteranmctx.com/ #veterans #va #medical

Nov 1, 2023

Physician Assistant and prior C&P examiner Leah Bucholz discusses the relationship between GERD & PTSD in VA Disability. Leah discusses the relationship between Gastroesophageal Reflux Disease (GERD) and PTSD, especially in the context of veterans' affairs and disability claims. GERD is characterized by symptoms like heartburn, coughing, and nausea due to the malfunction of the esophageal sphincter. Leah explores how GERD can be directly connected to military service if diagnosed and treated during service. Additionally, she discusses the potential secondary connection between GERD and mental health disorders, particularly PTSD, citing various studies that demonstrate a link between emotional state and esophageal function. She mentions articles that explore the intersection of GERD with sleep quality, depression, and anxiety. Furthermore, she briefly touches upon the VA disability rating system for GERD, explaining the criteria for different ratings and addressing the common query about simultaneous ratings for GERD and IBS. If you would like more information on our services including Independent Medical Opinion Letters often referred to as nexus letters and records review, please check us out here: https://www.prestigeveteranmctx.com/ #veterans #va #medical

Oct 26, 2023

Physician Assistant and prior C&P examiner Leah Bucholz discusses Hypertension and its relationship to PTSD in VA Disability. Leah discusses the relationship between hypertension (high blood pressure) and PTSD in veterans, explaining how hypertension can be service-connected in military personnel. Hypertension, defined as a systolic blood pressure over 140 or a diastolic pressure over 90, can be directly linked to military service if diagnosed during active duty or secondarily associated with other conditions, such as PTSD and mental health issues. Leah emphasizes the role of various risk factors, both modifiable (like lifestyle choices) and non-modifiable (like genetics), in the development of hypertension. She references studies showing the impact of psychological stress and PTSD on blood pressure. If you would like more information on our services including Independent Medical Opinion Letters often referred to as nexus letters and records review, please check us out here: https://www.prestigeveteranmctx.com/ #veterans #va #medical

Oct 25, 2023

Physician Assistant and prior C&P examiner Leah Bucholz discusses Obstructive Sleep Apnea and Weight Gain as an Intermediate Step in VA Disability Leah addresses the link between obstructive sleep apnea (OSA) and weight gain, particularly in the context of veterans claiming VA disability. She highlights that weight gain, influenced by factors like mental health issues, physical disabilities, or lifestyle changes post-service, can be a significant risk factor for OSA. Leah emphasizes the importance of understanding various causes leading to weight gain, such as lack of exercise, dietary habits, or medication side effects. She references several studies underscoring the role of physical activity in preventing chronic diseases and maintaining weight loss, rather than focusing solely on calorie intake. For veterans, weight gain related to their service can serve as a bridge for connecting various disorders to their service for VA disability claims. If you would like more information on our services including Independent Medical Opinion Letters often referred to as nexus letters and records review, please check us out here: https://www.prestigeveteranmctx.com/ #veterans #va #medical

Oct 19, 2023

Physician Assistant and prior C&P examiner Leah Bucholz discusses the relationship between Erectile Dysfunction and Back Pain and VA disability compensation Leah explores the link between erectile dysfunction (ED) and back pain in veterans. She emphasizes the importance of discussing ED with healthcare providers, given its common occurrence and the embarrassment it often causes. Leah outlines various risk factors for ED, including heart disease, diabetes, mental health conditions, and medication side effects. Specifically, she highlights how back pain, particularly resulting from spinal injuries or conditions like disc herniations, can lead to ED. This is supported by studies she references, indicating a significant prevalence of ED in patients with lumbar spine issues. Leah stresses the multifactorial nature of ED in the context of VA disability, considering overlapping factors like mental health and medication. If you would like more information on our services including Independent Medical Opinion Letters often referred to as nexus letters and records review, please check us out here: https://www.prestigeveteranmctx.com/ #veterans #va #medical

Oct 18, 2023

Physician Assistant and prior C&P examiner Leah Bucholz discusses what happens in a C&P examination for sleep apnea. Leah provides an informative overview of what veterans can expect during a Compensation and Pension (C&P) exam for sleep apnea. She explains that these exams are primarily conducted by one of three main contractors and outlines the process of the exam, including possible paperwork and the types of healthcare professionals who might perform the evaluation. Leah details the Disability Benefits Questionnaire (DBQ) and the kinds of questions veterans can expect, such as the type of sleep apnea, symptoms, use of CPAP or other devices, and the impact of the condition on daily life and work. She emphasizes that veterans can bring additional documents to support their case but reminds them that the examiner will not provide a medical opinion immediately. If you would like more information on our services including Independent Medical Opinion Letters often referred to as nexus letters and records review, please check us out here: https://www.prestigeveteranmctx.com/ #veterans #va #medical

Oct 12, 2023

Physician Assistant and prior C&P examiner Leah Bucholz discusses Migraines related to service-connected tinnitus in VA disability. Physician Assistant and prior C&P examiner Leah Bucholz discusses about Migraines and Tinnitus in Veterans' Disability. Leah discusses the connection between migraines and tinnitus in veterans. She explains that many veterans suffer from service-connected tinnitus, often caused by acoustic noise trauma during active duty. Leah, drawing from her own experience and background in occupational hearing, emphasizes the variability of noise exposure across different military roles and its impact on developing tinnitus. She explains that tinnitus and migraines often have a reciprocal relationship, where one can exacerbate the other, forming a vicious cycle. Citing a study from Biomedical Research International (2015), she notes that both conditions share a pathophysiological mechanism involving alterations in thalamocortical activity. If you would like more information on our services including Independent Medical Opinion Letters often referred to as nexus letters and records review, please check us out here: https://www.prestigeveteranmctx.com// #veterans #va #medical

Oct 11, 2023

Physician Assistant and prior C&P examiner Leah Bucholz discusses the connection between Diabetes and Sleep Apnea in VA disability. Leah explores the relationship between Type 2 Diabetes and Obstructive Sleep Apnea (OSA) in veterans, particularly in the context of VA disability claims. She discusses the common occurrence of Type 2 Diabetes in veterans and its potential connections to various service-related conditions, including sleep apnea and Agent Orange exposure. Leah emphasizes the significance of service connection for diabetes, as it can lead to a cascade of secondary service-connected disabilities like diabetic eye changes, erectile dysfunction, and peripheral neuropathy. She highlights the importance of medical opinions supported by scientific evidence in establishing these connections and discusses the role of OSA in altering glucose metabolism and increasing the risk of Type 2 Diabetes, referencing multiple scientific articles. A. If you would like more information on our services including Independent Medical Opinion Letters often referred to as nexus letters and records review, please check us out here: https://www.prestigeveteranmctx.com/ #veterans #va #medical

Oct 5, 2023

Physician Assistant and prior C&P examiner Leah Bucholz discusses Central Sleep Apnea and TBI in VA disability. Leah focuses on Central Sleep Apnea (CSA) in veterans, differentiating it from the more common Obstructive Sleep Apnea. Leah explains that CSA, caused by the brain's failure to signal breathing during sleep, is diagnosed through sleep studies. She discusses challenges in establishing service connections for CSA, especially for reservists, and explores the link between CSA and Traumatic Brain Injury (TBI), citing relevant studies. Leah advises veterans to consult healthcare providers for medical opinions linking CSA to TBI. Additionally, she briefly covers the VA disability ratings for sleep apnea, based on severity and treatment needs. If you would like more information on our services including Independent Medical Opinion Letters often referred to as nexus letters and records review, please check us out here: https://www.prestigeveteranmctx.com/ #veterans #va #medical

Oct 3, 2023

Physician Assistant and prior C&P examiner Leah Bucholz discusses Coronary Artery Disease and weight gain as an intermediate step. Leah explores the connection between coronary artery disease (CAD) and VA disability, with a focus on obesity as an intermediate factor. She clarifies that while not specialized in internal medicine or cardiology, she has relevant experience in treating CAD. CAD, characterized by plaque buildup in heart arteries, can be a result of both modifiable (e.g., smoking, sedentary lifestyle) and non-modifiable (e.g., age, gender) risk factors. Leah discusses how conditions like hypertension, sleep apnea, PTSD, depression, and especially obesity can be linked to CAD. She emphasizes the role of obesity, caused by factors like mental health conditions or physical disabilities, in increasing CAD risk. When evaluating VA disability claims, she considers the totality of the evidence, including various risk factors and their relation to military service. If you would like more information on our services including Independent Medical Opinion Letters often referred to as nexus letters and records review, please check us out here: https://www.prestigeveteranmctx.com/ #veterans #va #medical

Sep 28, 2023

Physician Assistant and prior C&P examiner Leah Bucholz discusses the connection between Diabetes and Sleep Apnea in VA disability. Leah explores the relationship between Type 2 Diabetes and Obstructive Sleep Apnea (OSA) in veterans, particularly in the context of VA disability claims. She discusses the common occurrence of Type 2 Diabetes in veterans and its potential connections to various service-related conditions, including sleep apnea and Agent Orange exposure. Leah emphasizes the significance of service connection for diabetes, as it can lead to a cascade of secondary service-connected disabilities like diabetic eye changes, erectile dysfunction, and peripheral neuropathy. She highlights the importance of medical opinions supported by scientific evidence in establishing these connections and discusses the role of OSA in altering glucose metabolism and increasing the risk of Type 2 Diabetes, referencing multiple scientific articles. A. If you would like more information on our services including Independent Medical Opinion Letters often referred to as nexus letters and records review, please check us out here: https://www.prestigeveteranmctx.com/ #veterans #va #medical

Sep 27, 2023

Physician Assistant and prior C&P examiner Leah Bucholz discusses Hypertension and its relationship to PTSD in VA Disability. Leah discusses the relationship between hypertension (high blood pressure) and PTSD in veterans, explaining how hypertension can be service-connected in military personnel. Hypertension, defined as a systolic blood pressure over 140 or a diastolic pressure over 90, can be directly linked to military service if diagnosed during active duty or secondarily associated with other conditions, such as PTSD and mental health issues. Leah emphasizes the role of various risk factors, both modifiable (like lifestyle choices) and non-modifiable (like genetics), in the development of hypertension. She references studies showing the impact of psychological stress and PTSD on blood pressure. If you would like more information on our services including Independent Medical Opinion Letters often referred to as nexus letters and records review, please check us out here: https://www.prestigeveteranmctx.com/ #veterans #va #medical

Sep 21, 2023

Physician Assistant and prior C&P examiner Leah Bucholz discusses the relationship between OSA and Rhinitis and VA disability compensation Leah explores the relationship between sleep apnea and allergic rhinitis, particularly in the context of VA disability claims. She discusses various aspects of sleep apnea, including its types (obstructive, central, mixed), and the nuances of its connection to military service, whether as a primary condition or secondary to other medical issues. Leah highlights the overlap between allergic rhinitis, chronic sinusitis, and deviated septum, and their potential role in precipitating obstructive sleep apnea in veterans. She references several studies from journals like the Journal of the American Medical Association and Scientific Reports to illustrate the correlation between nasal conditions and sleep apnea. If you would like more information on our services including Independent Medical Opinion Letters often referred to as nexus letters and records review, please check us out here: https://www.prestigeveteranmctx.com/ #veterans #va #medical

Sep 20, 2023

Physician Assistant and prior C&P examiner Leah Bucholz discusses What to Expect in Headaches C&P Exam. Leah provides detailed insights into the CMP exam process for veterans seeking disability claims for headaches. Leah explains that veterans will receive paperwork indicating their CMP exam details, including the examiner's information. She suggests researching the examiner in advance, although notes this might increase anxiety for some. On exam day, veterans should expect to complete paperwork and discuss their headache history, including type, duration, associated symptoms, medication, and impact on daily life and work. The examiner will use a Disability Benefits Questionnaire (DBQ) available on the VA website, which matches the rating criteria for disability. Leah clarifies that the exam might lead to an increase in existing benefits or new service connections, depending on the severity and impact of the headaches. If you would like more information on our services including Independent Medical Opinion Letters often referred to as nexus letters and records review, please check us out here: https://www.prestigeveteranmctx.com/ #veterans #va #medical

Sep 14, 2023

Physician Assistant and prior C&P examiner Leah Bucholz discusses Migraines related to service-connected tinnitus in VA disability. Physician Assistant and prior C&P examiner Leah Bucholz discusses about Migraines and Tinnitus in Veterans' Disability. Leah discusses the connection between migraines and tinnitus in veterans. She explains that many veterans suffer from service-connected tinnitus, often caused by acoustic noise trauma during active duty. Leah, drawing from her own experience and background in occupational hearing, emphasizes the variability of noise exposure across different military roles and its impact on developing tinnitus. She explains that tinnitus and migraines often have a reciprocal relationship, where one can exacerbate the other, forming a vicious cycle. Citing a study from Biomedical Research International (2015), she notes that both conditions share a pathophysiological mechanism involving alterations in thalamocortical activity. If you would like more information on our services including Independent Medical Opinion Letters often referred to as nexus letters and records review, please check us out here: https://www.prestigeveteranmctx.com// #veterans #va #medical

Sep 13, 2023

Physician Assistant and prior C&P examiner Leah Bucholz discusses Headaches & VA Disability. Leah discusses various types of headaches experienced by veterans and their relation to VA disability claims. She elaborates on common types, including migraines, tension headaches, cluster headaches, and sinus headaches, describing their characteristics and associated symptoms. Migraines, for instance, are often one-sided and can come with nausea, vomiting, or visual changes, while tension headaches feel like a band squeezing the head. She mentions treatments like abortive medications (e.g., sumatriptan, Tylenol) for immediate relief and preventive medications for frequent sufferers. Additionally, Leah notes that headaches can be connected to other conditions like tinnitus, stress, PTSD, anxiety, depression, Gulf War exposures, and hypertension. She emphasizes the importance of understanding how these headaches can impact daily functioning, a key factor in VA disability evaluations. If you would like more information on our services including Independent Medical Opinion Letters often referred to as nexus letters and records review, please check us out here: https://www.prestigeveteranmctx.com/ #veterans #va #medical

Sep 7, 2023

Physician Assistant and prior C&P examiner Leah Bucholz discusses Obstructive Sleep Apnea and Neck pain in VA Disability Leah explores the relationship between obstructive sleep apnea (OSA) and neck pain, particularly in the context of veterans' service-connected disabilities. She explains how OSA can be directly or secondarily service-connected, including connections to PTSD, mental health conditions, orthopaedic conditions, and weight gain. Focusing on neck pain, Leah details how cervical spine pathology can contribute to OSA, referencing various academic articles that support this link. These articles discuss how cervical spine issues, including osteochondromas, osteophytes, and misalignments, can exert pressure on the upper airway, leading to OSA. If you would like more information on our services including Independent Medical Opinion Letters often referred to as nexus letters and records review, please check us out here: https://www.prestigeveteranmctx.com/ #veterans #va #medical

Sep 6, 2023

Physician Assistant and prior C&P examiner Leah Bucholz discusses Compensation and Pension exams for Erectile Dysfunction. Leah provides an insightful guide for veterans about the C&P examination process for erectile dysfunction (ED). She explains that veterans can be service-connected for ED either directly if diagnosed while on active duty, or secondarily if related to other service-connected disabilities like mental health issues or certain medications. Leah details the examination process, noting that veterans will receive a packet outlining the details of their appointment, which involves reviewing the Disability Benefits Questionnaire (DBQ) and potentially undergoing a physical examination, although this can be declined. She clarifies common concerns about physical exams and highlights various aspects of the DBQ, including medical history, medications, and associated conditions. If you would like more information on our services including Independent Medical Opinion Letters often referred to as nexus letters and records review, please check us out here: https://www.prestigeveteranmctx.com/ #veterans #va #medical

Sep 6, 2023

Physician Assistant and prior C&P examiner Leah Bucholz discusses Pes Planus as it relates to VA disability. Leah addresses how flat feet (pes planus) are considered in the context of VA disability. She explains that many veterans suffer from foot conditions like plantar fasciitis, metatarsalgia, and others which can be related to their service. Flat feet can be either congenital (present from birth) or acquired due to various factors such as weight gain or injuries. Leah highlights that for VA disability compensation, the condition can be connected primarily (developed or worsened in service) or secondarily (caused by another service-connected condition). She emphasizes the importance of showing a worsening of the baseline condition for those with pre-existing asymptomatic flat feet. Diagnosis can be done by various healthcare professionals, and treatment may include physical therapy and custom orthotics. If you would like more information on our services including Independent Medical Opinion Letters often referred to as nexus letters and records review, please check us out here: https://www.prestigeveteranmctx.com/ #veterans #va #medical

Aug 31, 2023

Physician Assistant and prior C&P examiner Leah Bucholz discusses the relationship between OSA and Rhinitis and VA disability compensation Leah explores the relationship between sleep apnea and allergic rhinitis, particularly in the context of VA disability claims. She discusses various aspects of sleep apnea, including its types (obstructive, central, mixed), and the nuances of its connection to military service, whether as a primary condition or secondary to other medical issues. Leah highlights the overlap between allergic rhinitis, chronic sinusitis, and deviated septum, and their potential role in precipitating obstructive sleep apnea in veterans. She references several studies from journals like the Journal of the American Medical Association and Scientific Reports to illustrate the correlation between nasal conditions and sleep apnea. If you would like more information on our services including Independent Medical Opinion Letters often referred to as nexus letters and records review, please check us out here: https://www.prestigeveteranmctx.com/ #veterans #va #medical

Aug 30, 2023

Physician Assistant and prior C&P examiner Leah Bucholz discusses IBS as it relates to PTSD in VA disability. Leah, discusses the relationship between IBS, PTSD, and other mental health conditions in the context of VA disability. She explains that IBS, diagnosed based on the Rome criteria, includes symptoms like abdominal pain, constipation, diarrhea, and bloating. Leah highlights several pathways for veterans to establish a service connection for IBS: diagnosis during active service, association with Gulf War exposures, and secondary service connections linked to mental health disorders like PTSD. She emphasizes the importance of demonstrating how PTSD or other mental health conditions might cause or worsen IBS. Leah references several research articles supporting the IBS-mental health connection and advises veterans on how to discuss this with healthcare providers and VA examiners. If you would like more information on our services including Independent Medical Opinion Letters often referred to as nexus letters and records review, please check us out here: https://www.prestigeveteranmctx.com #veterans #va #medical

Aug 24, 2023

Physician Assistant and prior C&P examiner Leah Bucholz discusses What to Expect in a Knee Pain C&P Exam. Leah offers an in-depth guide for veterans undergoing a Compensation and Pension (C&P) exam for knee pain. As a US Army veteran, former C&P examiner, and physician assistant, Leah discusses various knee conditions eligible for VA disability, including patellofemoral pain syndrome, meniscal tears, and arthritis. She explains how these conditions can be service-connected directly or secondarily due to other injuries or issues like weight gain. The video outlines the preparation for a C&P exam, detailing the contents of the pre-exam packet and the importance of the Disability Benefits Questionnaire (DBQ). If you would like more information on our services including Independent Medical Opinion Letters often referred to as nexus letters and records review, please check us out here: https://www.prestigeveteranmctx.com/ #veterans #va #medical

Aug 23, 2023

Physician Assistant and prior C&P examiner Leah Bucholz discusses Fatty Liver Disease and VA disability. Leah discusses various types of headaches experienced by veterans and their relation to VA disability claims. She elaborates on common types, including migraines, tension headaches, cluster headaches, and sinus headaches, describing their characteristics and associated symptoms. Migraines, for instance, are often one-sided and can come with nausea, vomiting, or visual changes, while tension headaches feel like a band squeezing the head. She mentions treatments like abortive medications (e.g., sumatriptan, Tylenol) for immediate relief and preventive medications for frequent sufferers. Additionally, Leah notes that headaches can be connected to other conditions like tinnitus, stress, PTSD, anxiety, depression, Gulf War exposures, and hypertension. She emphasizes the importance of understanding how these headaches can impact daily functioning, a key factor in VA disability evaluations. If you would like more information on our services including Independent Medical Opinion Letters often referred to as nexus letters and records review, please check us out here: https://www.prestigeveteranmctx.com// #veterans #medical #disease

Aug 17, 2023

Physician Assistant and prior C&P examiner Leah Bucholz discusses what happens during a VA C&P exam for IBS Leah discusses various types of headaches experienced by veterans and their relation to VA disability claims. She elaborates on common types, including migraines, tension headaches, cluster headaches, and sinus headaches, describing their characteristics and associated symptoms. Migraines, for instance, are often one-sided and can come with nausea, vomiting, or visual changes, while tension headaches feel like a band squeezing the head. She mentions treatments like abortive medications (e.g., sumatriptan, Tylenol) for immediate relief and preventive medications for frequent sufferers. Additionally, Leah notes that headaches can be connected to other conditions like tinnitus, stress, PTSD, anxiety, depression, Gulf War exposures, and hypertension. She emphasizes the importance of understanding how these headaches can impact daily functioning, a key factor in VA disability evaluations. If you would like more information on our services including Independent Medical Opinion Letters often referred to as nexus letters and records review, please check us out here: https://www.prestigeveteranmctx.com/ #veterans #va #medical

Aug 16, 2023

Physician Assistant and prior C&P examiner Leah Bucholz discusses about Chronic Fatigue Syndrome and Veterans' Disability. Leah discusses various types of headaches experienced by veterans and their relation to VA disability claims. She elaborates on common types, including migraines, tension headaches, cluster headaches, and sinus headaches, describing their characteristics and associated symptoms. Migraines, for instance, are often one-sided and can come with nausea, vomiting, or visual changes, while tension headaches feel like a band squeezing the head. She mentions treatments like abortive medications (e.g., sumatriptan, Tylenol) for immediate relief and preventive medications for frequent sufferers. Additionally, Leah notes that headaches can be connected to other conditions like tinnitus, stress, PTSD, anxiety, depression, Gulf War exposures, and hypertension. She emphasizes the importance of understanding how these headaches can impact daily functioning, a key factor in VA disability evaluations.

Aug 10, 2023

Physician Assistant and prior C&P examiner Leah Bucholz discusses Coronary Artery Disease and weight gain as an intermediate step. Leah explores the connection between coronary artery disease (CAD) and VA disability, with a focus on obesity as an intermediate factor. She clarifies that while not specialized in internal medicine or cardiology, she has relevant experience in treating CAD. CAD, characterized by plaque buildup in heart arteries, can be a result of both modifiable (e.g., smoking, sedentary lifestyle) and non-modifiable (e.g., age, gender) risk factors. Leah discusses how conditions like hypertension, sleep apnea, PTSD, depression, and especially obesity can be linked to CAD. She emphasizes the role of obesity, caused by factors like mental health conditions or physical disabilities, in increasing CAD risk. When evaluating VA disability claims, she considers the totality of the evidence, including various risk factors and their relation to military service. If you would like more information on our services including Independent Medical Opinion Letters often referred to as nexus letters and records review, please check us out here: https://www.prestigeveteranmctx.com/ #veterans #va #medical

Aug 9, 2023

Physician Assistant and prior C&P examiner Leah Bucholz discusses Erectile Dysfunction as it relates to PTSD in VA disability. Leah discusses the relationship between erectile dysfunction (ED) and mental health disorders like PTSD, depression, and anxiety in the context of VA disability. She explains that ED can be service-connected either directly (primary) or secondarily due to other service-connected disabilities, such as mental health disorders. Leah emphasizes the importance of supporting VA disability claims with peer-reviewed literature, citing several studies from the Journal of Sexual Medicine that establish a significant link between PTSD in veterans and sexual dysfunction. She also mentions that medications used for treating mental health disorders, such as SSRIs and SNRIs, can contribute to ED. While not an expert on VA disability ratings, Leah briefly touches on them, explaining that ED generally receives a special monthly compensation, and the rating can vary based on specific conditions like testicular atrophy or physical deformities. If you would like more information on our services including Independent Medical Opinion Letters often referred to as nexus letters and records review, please check us out here: https://www.prestigeveteranmctx.com/ #veterans #va #medical

Aug 3, 2023

Physician Assistant and prior C&P examiner Leah Bucholz discusses what happens during a VA C&P exam for GERD Leah provides a detailed walkthrough of the Compensation and Pension (C&P) examination process for Gastroesophageal Reflux Disease (GERD) and other esophageal conditions. She emphasizes that the exam is standardized, following a specific formula and set of questions outlined in the Disability Benefits Questionnaire (DBQ). She advises veterans to review this questionnaire on the VA.gov website in advance. The exam includes verifying the diagnosis (which can also be made during the exam), detailing the condition's history, symptoms, and impact on the individual's life, and discussing medications and treatments used. It covers various symptoms, like epigastric distress, dysphagia, and vomiting, and may inquire about weight loss, sleep disturbances, and any related complications. B If you would like more information on our services including Independent Medical Opinion Letters often referred to as nexus letters and records review, please check us out here: https://www.prestigeveteranmctx.com/ #veterans #va #medical

Aug 2, 2023

Physician Assistant and prior C&P examiner Leah Bucholz Anxiety related to Tinnitus in VA disability. Leah explores the relationship between anxiety, tinnitus, and VA disability. She discusses how veterans can be service-connected for anxiety and other mental health conditions either directly, if diagnosed and treated during active duty and continuing post-service, or secondarily, as a result of other service-connected disabilities. Leah highlights several studies illustrating the strong association between tinnitus, depression, and anxiety, including their impact on sleep quality and workdays missed. Although not a legal expert, she provides insights into the VA’s mental health ratings, which range from 0 to 100 per cent based on severity. If you would like more information on our services including Independent Medical Opinion Letters often referred to as nexus letters and records review, please check us out here: https://www.prestigeveteranmctx.com #veterans #va #medical

Jul 27, 2023

Welcome to The Veterans Disability Nexus , where we provide unique insights and expertise on medical evidence related to VA-rated disabilities. Leah Bucholz, a US Army Veteran, Physician Assistant, & former Compensation & Pension Examiner shares her knowledge related to Independent Medical Opinions often referred to as “Nexus Letters” in support of your pursuit of VA Disability every Wednesday at 7AM. Leah provides a detailed tutorial on how veterans can access their VA medical records online. She explains that veterans can log into the My HealtheVet platform to not only review their medical records but also refill prescriptions, communicate with their care team, schedule appointments, and view lab and x-ray reports. Leah demonstrates step-by-step how to navigate the website, starting from logging in at myhealth.va.gov to downloading medical records. She emphasizes selecting the appropriate date range and types of information to ensure a comprehensive record is obtained. The process involves clicking the “Blue Button Medical Report,” choosing records from the desired time frame and submitting the request, after which the records can be downloaded as a PDF. Take control of your medical evidence related to your benefits and visit https://www.prestigeveteranmctx.com for more information and support. #veterans #va #medical #health * This Podcast episode is not medical or legal advice and should not be substituted for advisement from your VSO, accredited agent, or Attorney. #veterans #va #medical

Jul 26, 2023

Welcome to The Veterans Disability Nexus , where we provide unique insights and expertise on medical evidence related to VA-rated disabilities. Leah Bucholz, a US Army Veteran, Physician Assistant, & former Compensation & Pension Examiner shares her knowledge related to Independent Medical Opinions often referred to as “Nexus Letters” in support of your pursuit of VA Disability every Wednesday at 7AM. Leah discusses the emerging use of ketamine for treating chronic pain and mental health conditions such as PTSD, depression, and OCD. She highlights that ketamine, traditionally used for anesthesia and sedation since the 1960s, is now being explored for its neuromodulation effects on mental health, especially in veterans. Leah notes that while ketamine has a reputation as a street drug, its medical application shows significant benefits in brain function repair, particularly in cases where traditional treatments have failed. She mentions ongoing clinical trials and the possibility of insurance coverage for these treatments under certain circumstances. Leah also points out contraindications like active psychosis or substance abuse and emphasizes that the treatment is not universal but depends on individual assessments by healthcare providers. Take control of your medical evidence related to your benefits and visit https://www.prestigeveteranmctx.com for more information and support. #veterans #va #medical #health * This Podcast episode is not medical or legal advice and should not be substituted for advisement from your VSO, accredited agent, or Attorney.

Jul 20, 2023

Physician Assistant and prior C&P examiner Leah Bucholz Obesity as an Intermediate Step in VA Disability. Leah explains that while obesity itself isn't directly service-connected, it can act as a bridge linking service-related conditions to other medical issues. For instance, a veteran's service-connected disability might lead to obesity, which in turn causes another condition. Leah delves into the definition and categories of obesity based on BMI (Body Mass Index) and mentions the landmark Walsh vs. Wilkie case, which set a precedent for obesity as an intermediate step in such claims. She outlines the criteria for establishing a connection between service-related disability, obesity, and subsequent health issues. Leah provides examples of conditions like mental health disorders, orthopedic ailments, and asthma, which can lead to obesity, and secondary conditions like hypertension, diabetes, and sleep apnea that might be linked to obesity. If you would like more information on our services including Independent Medical Opinion Letters often referred to as nexus letters and records review, please check us out here: https://www.prestigeveteranmctx.com/ #obesity #veterans #health

Jul 19, 2023

Welcome to The Veterans Disability Nexus , where we provide unique insights and expertise on medical evidence related to VA-rated disabilities. Leah Bucholz, a US Army Veteran, Physician Assistant, & former Compensation & Pension Examiner shares her knowledge related to Independent Medical Opinions often referred to as “Nexus Letters” in support of your pursuit of VA Disability every Wednesday at 7AM. Leah discusses Battlefield Acupuncture, a technique developed by Air Force veteran Dr. Nimitzau. This form of auricular (ear) acupuncture is designed for rapid deployment among healthcare professionals in military settings, offering non-traditional, pharmacologic pain relief for various conditions, including orthopedic issues and migraines. Frequently used in the military and available in VA clinics, it involves placing small, semi-permanent ASP needles at five specific points in the ear. While not a universal remedy, many service members report benefits such as reduced stress and improved sleep. Leah, sharing her personal experience, mentions possible side effects like minor discomfort and infection risk, advising veterans to consult their healthcare providers to determine if it's suitable for them. Take control of your medical evidence related to your benefits and visit https://www.prestigeveteranmctx.com for more information and support. #veterans #va #medical #health * This Podcast episode is not medical or legal advice and should not be substituted for advisement from your VSO, accredited agent, or Attorney.

Jul 13, 2023

Physician Assistant and prior C&P examiner Leah Bucholz discusses what happens in a C&P examination for sleep apnea. Leah provides an informative overview of what veterans can expect during a Compensation and Pension (C&P) exam for sleep apnea. She explains that these exams are primarily conducted by one of three main contractors and outlines the process of the exam, including possible paperwork and the types of healthcare professionals who might perform the evaluation. Leah details the Disability Benefits Questionnaire (DBQ) and the kinds of questions veterans can expect, such as the type of sleep apnea, symptoms, use of CPAP or other devices, and the impact of the condition on daily life and work. She emphasizes that veterans can bring additional documents to support their case but reminds them that the examiner will not provide a medical opinion immediately. If you would like more information on our services including Independent Medical Opinion Letters often referred to as nexus letters and records review, please check us out here: https://www.prestigeveteranmctx.com/ #veterans #va #medical

Jul 12, 2023

Physician Assistant and prior C&P examiner Leah Bucholz Anxiety related to Tinnitus in VA disability. Leah explores the relationship between anxiety, tinnitus, and VA disability. She discusses how veterans can be service-connected for anxiety and other mental health conditions either directly, if diagnosed and treated during active duty and continuing post-service, or secondarily, as a result of other service-connected disabilities. Leah highlights several studies illustrating the strong association between tinnitus, depression, and anxiety, including their impact on sleep quality and workdays missed. Although not a legal expert, she provides insights into the VA’s mental health ratings, which range from 0 to 100 per cent based on severity. If you would like more information on our services including Independent Medical Opinion Letters often referred to as nexus letters and records review, please check us out here: https://www.prestigeveteranmctx.com #veterans #va #medical

Jul 6, 2023

Physician Assistant and prior C&P examiner Leah Bucholz discusses What Happens in a VA Disability C&P Exam for Chronic Fatigue Syndrome Leah provides insights into Chronic Fatigue Syndrome (CFS) in veterans and the related VA disability Compensation and Pension (C&P) exam process. She explains that CFS is often a diagnosis of exclusion and may be difficult to assert in the presence of conditions like sleep apnea or hypothyroidism. Leah discusses the potential for service connection of CFS, including direct connections from active duty diagnosis, secondary connections to other disabilities, or links to Gulf War exposures. During the C&P exam, veterans encounter a Disability Benefits Questionnaire (DBQ) covering symptoms, history, and impact of CFS. The DBQ includes questions on symptom severity, exclusions of other conditions, cognitive impacts, and incapacitation periods. If you would like more information on our services including Independent Medical Opinion Letters often referred to as nexus letters and records review, please check us out here: https://www.prestigeveteranmctx.com/ #veterans #va #medical

Jul 5, 2023

Physician Assistant and prior C&P examiner Leah Bucholz discusses Erectile Dysfunction and VA disability Compensation. Leah discusses the prevalence and challenges of erectile dysfunction (ED) among male veterans. She emphasizes the reluctance many men feel in discussing this sensitive issue with healthcare providers and encourages veterans to seek help, even if it means writing down their concerns. Leah explains that ED can be service-connected, arising from incidents during active duty or related to other service-connected disabilities, such as trauma, psychiatric issues, medications, hypertension, diabetes, and prostate cancer. She notes that ED can qualify for VA disability compensation, including special monthly compensation beyond regular disability payments. Leah also provides an overview of the Disability Benefits Questionnaire (DBQ) used in the evaluation process, clarifying that genital examinations are optional and detailing how the questionnaire assesses ED and related conditions. If you would like more information on our services including Independent Medical Opinion Letters often referred to as nexus letters and records review, please check us out here: https://www.prestigeveteranmctx.com/ #veterans #va #medical

Jun 29, 2023

Welcome to The Veterans Disability Nexus , where we provide unique insights and expertise on medical evidence related to VA-rated disabilities. Leah Bucholz, a US Army Veteran, Physician Assistant, & former Compensation & Pension Examiner shares her knowledge related to Independent Medical Opinions often referred to as “Nexus Letters” in support of your pursuit of VA Disability every Wednesday at 7 AM. Leah discusses the connection between orthopedic injuries and military service, particularly in the context of paratroopers. Leah, an ex-paratrooper and medic who became an army officer, acknowledges the high risk of orthopedic injuries like compression fractures and cervical neck problems due to the physical demands of para trooping, especially with static line parachuting and carrying combat loads. They advise veterans with such injuries to pursue medical opinions and VA disability claims. The discussion also covers the interrelation of knee, hip, and back problems, emphasizing the importance of considering all risk factors, including post-service injuries, weight gain, and walking irregularities. The concept of aggravation versus causation in VA disability is explained, particularly in the context of pes planus (flat foot). Aggravation involves the worsening of a pre-existing condition due to service, whereas causation refers to conditions developed during service. Take control of your medical evidence related to your benefits and visit https://www.prestigeveteranmctx.com for more information and support.

Jun 28, 2023

Physician Assistant and prior C&P examiner Leah Bucholz discusses the relationship between GERD & PTSD in VA Disability. Leah discusses the relationship between Gastroesophageal Reflux Disease (GERD) and PTSD, especially in the context of veterans' affairs and disability claims. GERD is characterized by symptoms like heartburn, coughing, and nausea due to the malfunction of the esophageal sphincter. Leah explores how GERD can be directly connected to military service if diagnosed and treated during service. Additionally, she discusses the potential secondary connection between GERD and mental health disorders, particularly PTSD, citing various studies that demonstrate a link between emotional state and esophageal function. She mentions articles that explore the intersection of GERD with sleep quality, depression, and anxiety. Furthermore, she briefly touches upon the VA disability rating system for GERD, explaining the criteria for different ratings and addressing the common query about simultaneous ratings for GERD and IBS. If you would like more information on our services including Independent Medical Opinion Letters often referred to as nexus letters and records review, please check us out here: https://www.prestigeveteranmctx.com/ #veterans #va #medical

Jun 22, 2023

Welcome to The Veterans Disability Nexus , where we provide unique insights and expertise on medical evidence related to VA-rated disabilities. Leah Bucholz, a US Army Veteran, Physician Assistant, & former Compensation & Pension Examiner shares her knowledge related to Independent Medical Opinions often referred to as “Nexus Letters” in support of your pursuit of VA Disability every Wednesday at 7AM. Leah discusses the relationship between Gastroesophageal Reflux Disease (GERD) and PTSD, especially in the context of veterans' affairs and disability claims. GERD is characterized by symptoms like heartburn, coughing, and nausea due to the malfunction of the esophageal sphincter. Leah explores how GERD can be directly connected to military service if diagnosed and treated during service. Additionally, she discusses the potential secondary connection between GERD and mental health disorders, particularly PTSD, citing various studies that demonstrate a link between emotional state and esophageal function. She mentions articles that explore the intersection of GERD with sleep quality, depression, and anxiety. Furthermore, she briefly touches upon the VA disability rating system for GERD, explaining the criteria for different ratings and addressing the common query about simultaneous ratings for GERD and IBS. Take control of your medical evidence related to your benefits and visit https://www.prestigeveteranmctx.com for more information and support. #veterans #va #medical

Jun 22, 2023

Physician Assistant and prior C&P examiner Leah Bucholz chats about hypertension and VA disability. Leah discusses the nuances of hypertension (high blood pressure) in the context of VA disability claims. She explains the medical definition of hypertension, referencing the Joint National Committee guidelines, and differentiates between systolic and diastolic blood pressure. Leah emphasizes the ease of receiving service connection for hypertension developed during active duty and mentions conditions like sleep apnea and chronic kidney disease that can be related to or aggravated by hypertension. She also covers the association between hypertension and Agent Orange exposure, obesity, NSAID use, and stress. Furthermore, Leah delves into how multiple factors contribute to hypertension, affecting VA disability ratings, and guides viewers on accessing the most current rating schedules from the VA. She introduces the Disability Benefits Questionnaire (DBQ) for hypertension, explains its significance in the claim process, and suggests consulting with a medical professional for a potential service connection. If you would like more information on our services including Independent Medical Opinion Letters often referred to as nexus letters and records review, please check us out here: https://www.prestigeveteranmctx.com/ #veterans #va #medical

Jun 21, 2023

Physician Assistant and prior C&P examiner Leah Bucholz discusses IBS and VA disability compensation Leah addresses the topic of IBS (Irritable Bowel Syndrome) concerning VA disability for veterans. She clarifies that IBS can be diagnosed by a range of medical providers and does not always require invasive tests like colonoscopies, especially if symptoms match the Rome criteria (chronic symptoms like bloating, gas, constipation, or diarrhea). Leah notes that many veterans seek service connections for IBS, often related to Gulf War exposures, classified as a functional gastrointestinal disorder. She explains that IBS can also be associated with mental health conditions like PTSD and depression, influencing symptom severity. Regarding VA disability compensation, IBS and related GI conditions can be rated up to 30%, but overlapping symptoms with other GI disorders can affect the rating (known as pyramiding). If you would like more information on our services including Independent Medical Opinion Letters often referred to as nexus letters and records review, please check us out here: https://www.prestigeveteranmctx.com/ #veterans #va #medical

Jun 15, 2023

Welcome to The Veterans Disability Nexus , where we provide unique insights and expertise on medical evidence related to VA-rated disabilities. Leah Bucholz, a US Army Veteran, Physician Assistant, & former Compensation & Pension Examiner shares her knowledge related to Independent Medical Opinions often referred to as “Nexus Letters” in support of your pursuit of VA Disability every Wednesday at 7 AM. Leah discusses the significance of reviewing VA rating decision letters when assessing medical records and evidence for veterans. She emphasizes the usefulness of these letters in providing a historical perspective on previous claims, especially those that were denied. Leah highlights how these letters can offer details about service-related conditions, reasons for denial, and evidence considered or overlooked. She advises veterans to obtain their "C file" or previous decision letters, either through their accredited agent, attorney or directly from the VA, often with a quick response time. Leah also mentions the importance of ensuring all submitted evidence is acknowledged in the VA’s review process and suggests that overlooked evidence could be a key factor in denials. Take control of your medical evidence related to your benefits and visit https://www.prestigeveteranmctx.com for more information and support. #veterans #va #medical #health * This Podcast episode is not medical or legal advice and should not be substituted for advisement from your VSO, accredited agent, or Attorney. #veterans #va #medical

Jun 14, 2023

Physician Assistant and prior C&P examiner Leah Bucholz discusses IBS as it relates to PTSD in VA disability. Leah discusses the relationship between IBS, PTSD, and other mental health conditions in the context of VA disability. She explains that IBS, diagnosed based on the Rome criteria, includes symptoms like abdominal pain, constipation, diarrhea, and bloating. Leah highlights several pathways for veterans to establish a service connection for IBS: diagnosis during active service, association with Gulf War exposures, and secondary service connections linked to mental health disorders like PTSD. She emphasizes the importance of demonstrating how PTSD or other mental health conditions might cause or worsen IBS. Leah references several research articles supporting the IBS-mental health connection and advises veterans on how to discuss this with healthcare providers and VA examiners. If you would like more information on our services including Independent Medical Opinion Letters often referred to as nexus letters and records review, please check us out here: https://www.prestigeveteranmctx.com #veterans #va #medical

Jun 8, 2023

Welcome to The Veterans Disability Nexus , where we provide unique insights and expertise on medical evidence related to VA-rated disabilities. Leah Bucholz, a US Army Veteran, Physician Assistant, & former Compensation & Pension Examiner shares her knowledge related to Independent Medical Opinions often referred to as “Nexus Letters” in support of your pursuit of VA Disability every Wednesday at 7 AM. Leah offers an in-depth guide for veterans undergoing a Compensation and Pension (C&P) exam for knee pain. As a US Army veteran, former C&P examiner, and physician assistant, Leah discusses various knee conditions eligible for VA disability, including patellofemoral pain syndrome, meniscal tears, and arthritis. She explains how these conditions can be service-connected directly or secondarily due to other injuries or issues like weight gain. The video outlines the preparation for a C&P exam, detailing the contents of the pre-exam packet and the importance of the Disability Benefits Questionnaire (DBQ). Take control of your medical evidence related to your benefits and visit https://www.prestigeveteranmctx.com for more information and support. #veterans #va #medical #health * This Podcast episode is not medical or legal advice and should not be substituted for advisement from your VSO, accredited agent, or Attorney.

Jun 7, 2023

Physician Assistant and prior C&P examiner Leah Bucholz discusses VA Disability Range of Motion Measurement for Ratings Leah explains the importance of range of motion (ROM) measurement or goniometry in evaluating orthopedic or musculoskeletal conditions for VA disability ratings. She clarifies that the severity of a condition doesn't directly determine the disability rating; instead, it's based on functional limitations as assessed by ROM. Leah demonstrates how to measure elbow flexion using a goniometer, explaining the process of measuring both active and passive ROM. She emphasizes that the degree of motion measured corresponds to specific disability ratings according to the 38 Code of Federal Regulation 4.71a. If you would like more information on our services including Independent Medical Opinion Letters often referred to as nexus letters and records review, please check us out here: https://www.prestigeveteranmctx.com/ #veterans #va #medical

Jun 1, 2023

Welcome to The Veterans Disability Nexus , where we provide unique insights and expertise on medical evidence related to VA-rated disabilities. Leah Bucholz, a US Army Veteran, Physician Assistant, & former Compensation & Pension Examiner shares her knowledge related to Independent Medical Opinions often referred to as “Nexus Letters” in support of your pursuit of VA Disability every Wednesday at 7 AM. Leah explains that while obesity itself isn't directly service-connected, it can act as a bridge linking service-related conditions to other medical issues. For instance, a veteran's service-connected disability might lead to obesity, which in turn causes another condition. Leah delves into the definition and categories of obesity based on BMI (Body Mass Index) and mentions the landmark Walsh vs. Wilkie case, which set a precedent for obesity as an intermediate step in such claims. She outlines the criteria for establishing a connection between service-related disability, obesity, and subsequent health issues. Leah provides examples of conditions like mental health disorders, orthopedic ailments, and asthma, which can lead to obesity, and secondary conditions like hypertension, diabetes, and sleep apnea that might be linked to obesity. Take control of your medical evidence related to your benefits and visit https://www.prestigeveteranmctx.com for more information and support. #veterans #va #medical #obesity #veterans #health * This Podcast episode is not medical or legal advice and should not be substituted for advisement from your VSO, accredited agent, or Attorney.

May 31, 2023

Physician Assistant and prior C&P examiner Leah Bucholz discusses Erectile Dysfunction as it relates to PTSD in VA disability. Leah discusses the relationship between erectile dysfunction (ED) and mental health disorders like PTSD, depression, and anxiety in the context of VA disability. She explains that ED can be service-connected either directly (primary) or secondarily due to other service-connected disabilities, such as mental health disorders. Leah emphasizes the importance of supporting VA disability claims with peer-reviewed literature, citing several studies from the Journal of Sexual Medicine that establish a significant link between PTSD in veterans and sexual dysfunction. She also mentions that medications used for treating mental health disorders, such as SSRIs and SNRIs, can contribute to ED. While not an expert on VA disability ratings, Leah briefly touches on them, explaining that ED generally receives a special monthly compensation, and the rating can vary based on specific conditions like testicular atrophy or physical deformities. If you would like more information on our services including Independent Medical Opinion Letters often referred to as nexus letters and records review, please check us out here: https://www.prestigeveteranmctx.com/ #veterans #va #medical

May 25, 2023

Physician Assistant and prior C&P examiner Leah Bucholz discusses Hip pain and VA Disability. Leah discusses hip conditions and their relevance to VA disability claims. The video is targeted at veterans seeking service connection for hip-related issues. Leah explains that her team, comprising mostly combat veterans and former compensation and pension examiners, assists veterans by reviewing medical records and writing independent medical opinions or nexus letters. These documents, while not mandatory, can be crucial in establishing a connection between a veteran's current condition and their military service. Leah emphasizes the importance of continuity of medical care and personal statements in claims. The video also covers specific hip conditions common among veterans, such as femoral acetabular impingement syndrome, snapping hip syndrome, trochanteric bursitis, and others. If you would like more information on our services to include Independent Medical Opinion Letters often referred to as nexus letters and records review, please check us out here: https://www.prestigeveteranmctx.com/ #veterans #va #medical

May 24, 2023

Physician Assistant and prior C&P examiner Leah Bucholz discusses GERD and VA disability compensation Leah addresses veterans about Gastroesophageal Reflux Disease (GERD) and its relation to VA disability compensation. She explains GERD symptoms, like heartburn and difficulty swallowing, is caused by stomach contents moving back into the esophagus. Leah discusses various causes and connections of GERD, including its relation to mental health conditions, sleep apnea, and NSAID use. She touches upon the challenges of GERD in the context of VA disability, especially distinguishing between direct service connections (like diagnosis during service) and secondary connections (like those related to mental health or medication use). Leah also addresses the misconception about GERD being a presumptive condition for Gulf War veterans, explaining that it is a structural disorder, not a functional one like IBS, often leading to denial of claims. If you would like more information on our services including Independent Medical Opinion Letters often referred to as nexus letters and records review, please check us out here: https://www.prestigeveteranmctx.com/ #veterans #va #medical

May 18, 2023

Physician Assistant and prior C&P examiner Leah Bucholz discusses Female Sexual Arousal Disorder and VA Disability. Leah Bucholz discusses Female Sexual Arousal Disorder (FSAD), a common condition among female veterans that often leads them to seek VA service connections. She explains how FSAD can be associated with other service-connected disabilities like PTSD, depression, anxiety, and the side effects of medications like SSRIs. FSAD falls under the broader category of female sexual disorders, which also includes disorders related to sexual desire, aversion, orgasm, and pain. Treatment options vary, including counselling, specialized therapies, and sometimes medications like intranasal prolactin or low-dose testosterone, although the effectiveness and appropriateness of these treatments can vary. Leah emphasizes that women with FSAD, related to their military service, may be eligible for special monthly compensation under the category of loss of use of a reproductive organ, similar to erectile dysfunction in men. This compensation is usually around $110 monthly, in addition to any other service-connected benefits. If you would like more information on our services including Independent Medical Opinion Letters often referred to as nexus letters and records review, please check us out here: https://www.prestigeveteranmctx.com/ #veterans #va #medical

May 17, 2023

Physician Assistant and prior C&P examiner Leah Bucholz discusses Fibromyalgia & VA Disability. Leah explains fibromyalgia in the context of VA disability. Fibromyalgia is a complex condition without specific diagnostic tests, often identified through a constellation of symptoms. Primary care providers or rheumatologists can diagnose it, and it's possible, though not guaranteed, to receive a diagnosis during a CMP exam. Leah highlights that fibromyalgia affects 2-4% of people, more women than men, and is not autoimmune or inflammation-based but involves the nervous system. There's no cure, but symptoms can be managed. Veterans can receive service connection for fibromyalgia if diagnosed in service, as a secondary condition to mental health disorders, or as a presumptive condition due to Gulf War exposure. If you would like more information on our services including Independent Medical Opinion Letters often referred to as nexus letters and records review, please check us out here: https://www.prestigeveteranmctx.com/ #veterans #va #fibromyalgia

May 11, 2023

Welcome to The Veterans Disability Nexus , where we provide unique insights and expertise on medical evidence related to VA-rated disabilities. Leah Bucholz, a US Army Veteran, Physician Assistant, & former Compensation & Pension Examiner shares her knowledge related to Independent Medical Opinions often referred to as “Nexus Letters” in support of your pursuit of VA Disability every Wednesday at 7AM. Leah explains the importance of range of motion (ROM) measurement or goniometry in evaluating orthopedic or musculoskeletal conditions for VA disability ratings. She clarifies that the severity of a condition doesn't directly determine the disability rating; instead, it's based on functional limitations as assessed by ROM. Leah demonstrates how to measure elbow flexion using a goniometer, explaining the process of measuring both active and passive ROM. She emphasizes that the degree of motion measured corresponds to specific disability ratings according to the 38 Code of Federal Regulation 4.71a. Take control of your medical evidence related to your benefits and visit https://www.prestigeveteranmctx.com for more information and support. #veterans #va #medical #health * This Podcast episode is not medical or legal advice and should not be substituted for advisement from your VSO, accredited agent, or Attorney.

May 10, 2023

Physician Assistant and prior C&P examiner Leah Bucholz discusses VA Disability Gerd/IBS Quick Q&A. Leah addresses questions related to Veterans Affairs (VA) disability claims, specifically focusing on gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD) and irritable bowel syndrome (IBS) concerning other service-connected conditions. The speaker confirms that medications for service-connected orthopedic ailments, such as NSAIDs, can lead to GERD and highlights the possibility that hypertension is linked to orthopedic conditions due to pain, NSAID use, and weight gain. They express skepticism about hypertension's direct link to tinnitus but acknowledge connections between tinnitus and mental health issues, migraines, and vertigo. The speaker advises veterans whose claims, like GERD secondary to NSAID use, are denied, to carefully review their rating decision letters and consider various avenues for recourse. If you would like more information on our services including Independent Medical Opinion Letters often referred to as nexus letters and records review, please check us out here: https://www.prestigeveteranmctx.com/ #veterans #va #medical

May 4, 2023

Physician Assistant and prior C&P examiner Leah Bucholz chats about Kidney disorders and VA disability compensation. Leah provides an overview of kidney disease in the context of VA disability. She explains that kidney disease, a serious condition affecting the body's ability to filter blood and regulate blood pressure, is often service-connected for veterans. This can be due to active duty developments, exposure (e.g., Agent Orange), or as secondary to another service-connected disability like hypertension. She highlights the variety of kidney-related disorders, including kidney cancer and diabetic kidney disease. Leah then discusses how the VA rates kidney disease, referencing the 38 Code of Federal Regulation and its criteria for rating based on both kidney dysfunction and specific diagnoses. This includes considerations for dialysis, urinary dysfunctions, and different genital urinary conditions. She stresses the importance of understanding whether conditions are diagnosed during active duty or relate to another service-connected disability and mentions presumptive conditions like prostate cancer linked to Agent Orange exposure. If you would like more information on our services including Independent Medical Opinion Letters often referred to as nexus letters and records review, please check us out here: https://www.prestigeveteranmctx.com/ #veterans #va #medical

May 3, 2023

Welcome to The Veterans Disability Nexus , where we provide unique insights and expertise on medical evidence related to VA-rated disabilities. Leah Bucholz, a US Army Veteran, Physician Assistant, & former Compensation & Pension Examiner shares her knowledge related to Independent Medical Opinions often referred to as “Nexus Letters” in support of your pursuit of VA Disability every Wednesday at 7 AM. Leah provides an overview of what veterans can expect during a Compensation and Pension (C&P) exam for diabetes. She explains that the Disability Benefits Questionnaire (DBQ) is a crucial document used by examiners to determine rating criteria, available on VA.gov for review or completion by a private provider. The video focuses on Type 1 and Type 2 diabetes, discussing their connection to military service, including direct service-related cases, secondary connections through conditions like obesity, and presumptive conditions linked to Agent Orange exposure. During the exam, veterans can expect to discuss their medical history, treatment details, the impact of diabetes on their daily life, and potential secondary conditions like neuropathy or retinal issues. Ratings for diabetes in VA disability claims are determined by the level of management needed, ranging from dietary restrictions to insulin injections, and the severity of symptoms and complications. Take control of your medical evidence related to your benefits and visit https://www.prestigeveteranmctx.com for more information and support. #veterans #va #medical #health * This Podcast episode is not medical or legal advice and should not be substituted for advisement from your VSO, accredited agent, or Attorney.

Apr 27, 2023

Physician Assistant and prior C&P examiner Leah Bucholz discusses VA disability Presumptive Conditions related to Agent Orange Exposure. Leah discusses the intricacies of Agent Orange exposure and its related presumptive conditions for VA disability benefits. She emphasizes the importance of understanding the VA's guidelines regarding service locations and timelines, such as service in Vietnam, on certain US military vessels, or at Thai and Korean bases during specific dates. Leah highlights various medical conditions linked to Agent Orange, including newly added ones like bladder cancer, hypothyroidism, and Parkinsonism. She clarifies that while nexus letters are not mandatory for presumptive conditions, they can be beneficial in certain cases. Using a story about a veteran she assisted, Leah illustrates the challenges veterans face in navigating the VA system, especially regarding documentation like the DD214 form. If you would like more information on our services including Independent Medical Opinion Letters often referred to as nexus letters and records review, please check us out here: https://www.prestigeveteranmctx.com/ #veterans #va #medical

Apr 26, 2023

Physician Assistant and prior C&P examiner Leah Bucholz discusses tinnitus and VA disability compensation Leah discusses tinnitus (ringing in the ears) in the context of veteran disability compensation. She explains that tinnitus, often resulting from acoustic noise exposure and possibly related to hearing loss, is a common condition for which veterans seek service connection. The condition can be linked to different military occupational specialties (MOS) with varying probabilities of noise exposure. Leah references a MOS noise exposure level spreadsheet that categorizes MOSs into high, moderate, and low noise exposure risks, noting that even those in low-risk roles may experience noise exposure in military environments. She also mentions that tinnitus can be secondary to factors like neck trauma or TMJ. If you would like more information on our services including Independent Medical Opinion Letters often referred to as nexus letters and records review, please check us out here: https://www.prestigeveteranmctx.com/ #veterans #va #medical

Apr 20, 2023

Physician Assistant and prior C&P examiner Leah Bucholz discusses VA Disability Orthopedic Quick tips. Leah discusses the connection between orthopedic injuries and military service, particularly in the context of paratroopers. Leah, an ex-paratrooper and medic who became an army officer, acknowledges the high risk of orthopedic injuries like compression fractures and cervical neck problems due to the physical demands of para trooping, especially with static line parachuting and carrying combat loads. They advise veterans with such injuries to pursue medical opinions and VA disability claims. The discussion also covers the interrelation of knee, hip, and back problems, emphasizing the importance of considering all risk factors, including post-service injuries, weight gain, and walking irregularities. The concept of aggravation versus causation in VA disability is explained, particularly in the context of pes planus (flat foot). Aggravation involves the worsening of a pre-existing condition due to service, whereas causation refers to conditions developed during service. If you would like more information on our services including Independent Medical Opinion Letters often referred to as nexus letters and records review, please check us out HERE👇 https://www.prestigeveteranmctx.com/ #veterans #va #medical

Apr 19, 2023

Physician Assistant and prior C&P examiner Leah Bucholz discusses Migraine Headache Logs and VA disability Leah emphasizes the importance of maintaining a headache log for individuals suffering from various types of headaches, such as migraines, tension, or cluster headaches. This log is crucial not only for medical treatment but also for VA disability claims. She highlights how a detailed log should include the frequency, duration, and characteristics of the headaches. Laah recommends using digital tools like the Migraine Buddy app or downloadable paper charts for logging. The log should detail the headache's severity, location, associated symptoms, medications taken, and possible triggers. This information helps in identifying patterns, understanding triggers, and potentially improving management. If you would like more information on our services including Independent Medical Opinion Letters often referred to as nexus letters and records review, please check us out here: https://www.prestigeveteranmctx.com/ #veterans #migraines #medical

Apr 13, 2023

Physician Assistant and prior C&P examiner Leah Bucholz discusses The MOS smart book and VA Disability. Leah emphasizes the importance of maintaining a headache log for individuals suffering from various types of headaches, such as migraines, tension, or cluster headaches. This log is crucial not only for medical treatment but also for VA disability claims. She highlights how a detailed log should include the frequency, duration, and characteristics of the headaches. Laah recommends using digital tools like the Migraine Buddy app or downloadable paper charts for logging. The log should detail the headache's severity, location, associated symptoms, medications taken, and possible triggers. This information helps in identifying patterns, understanding triggers, and potentially improving management. If you would like more information on our services including Independent Medical Opinion Letters often referred to as nexus letters and records review, please check us out here: https://www.prestigeveteranmctx.com// #veterans #va #medical

Apr 12, 2023

Leah discusses various aspects of diabetes concerning veteran service connection. She explains that veterans are typically service-connected for either Type 1 or Type 2 diabetes. Type 1, often insulin-dependent or childhood-onset, can still be diagnosed in adults, including active-duty service members. This diagnosis usually ends their active-duty careers due to insulin dependency. Type 2 diabetes, more common in veterans, is often adult-onset and can be managed to allow service retention. She outlines several ways diabetes can be service-connected: direct or primary connection if diagnosed on active duty, within one year of active-duty separation (as diabetes is on the VA’s list for related conditions), exposure to Agent Orange in Vietnam, and secondary connections through other medical conditions or medications that cause or aggravate diabetes. Join Leah Bucholz Physician Assistant and former C&P examiner for some information related to Diabetes and VA disability. If you would like more information on our services including Independent Medical Opinion Letters often referred to as nexus letters and records review, please check us out here: https://www.prestigeveteranmctx.com/ #diabetes #veterans #va

Apr 6, 2023

Physician Assistant and prior C&P examiner Leah Bucholz discusses knee pain and VA disability Leah discusses various knee injuries common among active duty personnel and veterans, and how these injuries can transition into chronic disabilities eligible for VA disability. She provides an anatomical overview of the knee using a model, explaining different components such as the femur, tibia, fibula, patella, and associated tendons and ligaments. Leah highlights common conditions like patellar tendonitis, chondromalacia, arthritis, and IT band syndrome, differentiating between overuse injuries and traumatic injuries such as meniscal and ligament tears. She stresses the importance of proper diagnosis and treatment to prevent deterioration, like arthritis leading to the need for knee replacements. Additionally, Leah addresses viewers' questions about connecting knee problems to military service, the challenges of establishing a service connection for knee issues without a documented history, and the potential for increased VA disability ratings due to worsening conditions like arthritis. If you would like more information on our services including Independent Medical Opinion Letters often referred to as nexus letters and records review, please check us out here: https://www.prestigeveteranmctx.com/ #veterans #va #medical

Apr 5, 2023

Welcome to The Veterans Disability Nexus , where we provide unique insights and expertise on medical evidence related to VA-rated disabilities. Leah Bucholz, a US Army Veteran, Physician Assistant, & former Compensation & Pension Examiner shares her knowledge related to Independent Medical Opinions often referred to as “Nexus Letters” in support of your pursuit of VA Disability every Wednesday at 7 AM. Leah explains the role and importance of a Nexus letter or independent medical opinion letter in VA disability claims. She clarifies that while these letters are not mandatory, they can be beneficial in establishing a connection between a veteran's injury or illness and their military service. Leah details the process of obtaining such a letter, either through medical experts like herself or from a primary care provider. She also discusses the different levels of likelihood statements used in Nexus letters, emphasizing the importance of accurate and credible medical opinions over-inflated claims. Leah highlights the complexities involved in establishing service connections, especially for conditions that emerge long after service. Take control of your medical evidence related to your benefits and visit https://www.prestigeveteranmctx.com for more information and support.

Mar 30, 2023

Welcome to The Veterans Disability Nexus , where we provide unique insights and expertise on medical evidence related to VA-rated disabilities. Leah Bucholz, a US Army Veteran, Physician Assistant, & former Compensation & Pension Examiner shares her knowledge related to Independent Medical Opinions often referred to as “Nexus Letters” in support of your pursuit of VA Disability every Wednesday at 7 AM. Leah explains the concept of presumptive conditions related to military service and how they are handled by the VA. She clarifies that presumptive conditions are illnesses or injuries likely caused by military service, as defined by the VA, which may include specific illnesses for veterans exposed to Agent Orange. Focusing on disabilities manifesting within one year of service separation, Leah emphasizes that not all conditions diagnosed within this period are automatically service-connected. She urges veterans to review the VA’s list of presumptive conditions within this timeframe, available online, to better understand which conditions are covered. She uses arthritis as an example, explaining its logical inclusion due to its development over time, making it likely service-related if diagnosed shortly after separation. Leah also touches on other types of presumptive conditions like Gulf War-related illnesses and exposure-related conditions, emphasizing the importance of veterans educating themselves and consulting with professionals for claims processes. Take control of your medical evidence related to your benefits and visit https://www.prestigeveteranmctx.com for more information and support. #veterans #va #medical #health * This Podcast episode is not medical or legal advice and should not be substituted for advisement from your VSO, accredited agent, or Attorney.

Mar 29, 2023

Welcome to The Veterans Disability Nexus , where we provide unique insights and expertise on medical evidence related to VA-rated disabilities. Leah Bucholz, a US Army Veteran, Physician Assistant, & former Compensation & Pension Examiner shares her knowledge related to Independent Medical Opinions often referred to as “Nexus Letters” in support of your pursuit of VA Disability every Wednesday at 7AM. Leah explains the significance of 'buddy letters' in VA disability claims. These letters, formally known as "Statements in Support of Claim," provide personal accounts of a veteran's injury or illness, offering insight into their medical history. While not required, these documents can strengthen a claim by depicting a veteran’s condition during and post-service. Leah emphasizes that buddy statements can be written by various individuals, such as family members, supervisors, or fellow service members ('battle buddies'), detailing the onset and progression of symptoms. She advises that, although not mandatory, certain elements like the date, reference to the veteran, and the writer’s signature can enhance the letter's impact. Take control of your medical evidence related to your benefits and visit https://www.prestigeveteranmctx.com for more information and support. #veterans #va #medical #health * This Podcast episode is not medical or legal advice and should not be substituted for advisement from your VSO, accredited agent, or Attorney.

Mar 23, 2023

Welcome to The Veterans Disability Nexus , where we provide unique insights and expertise on medical evidence related to VA-rated disabilities. Leah Bucholz, a US Army Veteran, Physician Assistant, & former Compensation & Pension Examiner shares her knowledge related to Independent Medical Opinions often referred to as “Nexus Letters” in support of your pursuit of VA Disability every Wednesday at 7AM. Leah discusses the importance of veterans describing to their healthcare providers the impact of their disability on their lives, both before and after its onset. She emphasizes the need for veterans to be detailed and open about the changes in their personal and professional lives, such as alterations in social interactions, family relationships, hobbies, and work performance. Leah provides examples like the effects of PTSD or back pain on daily activities and suggests maintaining records of changes in work performance or missed days. She also mentions using administrative documentation, like social security disability papers, to illustrate these changes. Take control of your medical evidence related to your benefits and visit https://www.prestigeveteranmctx.com for more information and support. #veterans #va #medical #health * This Podcast episode is not medical or legal advice and should not be substituted for advisement from your VSO, accredited agent, or Attorney.

Mar 22, 2023

Welcome to The Veterans Disability Nexus , where we provide unique insights and expertise on medical evidence related to VA-rated disabilities. Leah Bucholz, a US Army Veteran, Physician Assistant, & former Compensation & Pension Examiner shares her knowledge related to Independent Medical Opinions often referred to as “Nexus Letters” in support of your pursuit of VA Disability every Wednesday at 7AM. In this episode, Leah emphasizes the importance of detailed communication between a patient and their healthcare provider, especially during compensation and pension (comp and pen) exams or regular check-ups. She suggests that patients keep a symptom diary, noting not just the pain or discomfort but also its nature (like stabbing, sharp, or dull), triggers, time of occurrence, and any factors that worsen or alleviate it. Leah stresses that this approach helps give a comprehensive picture to the healthcare provider, enabling them to understand the patient's condition better. This detailed documentation, which could be in various forms like online diaries, apps, or hand-written notes, is crucial for effective communication during the limited consultation time. Leah also mentions that understanding the frequency and duration of symptoms and their impact on daily life, both professionally and personally, is vital. Take control of your medical evidence related to your benefits and visit https://www.prestigeveteranmctx.com for more information and support. #veterans #va #medical #health * This Podcast episode is not medical or legal advice and should not be substituted for advisement from your VSO, accredited agent, or Attorney. #veterans #va #medical

Mar 17, 2023

Welcome to The Veterans Disability Nexus , where we provide unique insights and expertise on medical evidence related to VA-rated disabilities. Leah Bucholz, a US Army Veteran, Physician Assistant, & former Compensation & Pension Examiner shares her knowledge related to Independent Medical Opinions often referred to as “Nexus Letters” in support of your pursuit of VA Disability every Wednesday at 7AM. In this episode, Leah addresses how active duty service members and veterans can document medical conditions for VA claims. She emphasizes the importance of DD Form 2807 (Report of Medical History) and DD Form 2808 (Report of Medical Examination), which are filled out during military entrance, at various military schools, and upon exit. Leah advises service members to thoroughly document all ailments on the DD Form 2807, suggesting they schedule separate appointments for each issue to ensure thorough documentation. For those exiting service, this approach ensures that their medical records accurately reflect their health concerns, aiding future VA benefit claims. Leah also explains how these forms provide a comprehensive medical history snapshot, beneficial for veterans to illustrate the progression or aggravation of conditions during service. Take control of your medical evidence related to your benefits and visit https://www.prestigeveteranmctx.com for more information and support. #veterans #va #medical #health * This Podcast episode is not medical or legal advice and should not be substituted for advisement from your VSO, accredited agent, or Attorney.

Mar 16, 2023

Welcome to The Veterans Disability Nexus , where we provide unique insights and expertise on medical evidence related to VA-rated disabilities. Leah Bucholz, a US Army Veteran, Physician Assistant, & former Compensation & Pension Examiner shares her knowledge related to Independent Medical Opinions often referred to as “Nexus Letters” in support of your pursuit of VA Disability every Wednesday at 7AM. In this episode, Leah Bucholz provides a comprehensive guide for understanding medical records, emphasizing their relevance in VA disability claims. She explains the standard structure of medical records, regardless of their origin. The records typically start with the chief complaint, followed by a section detailing vital signs, allergies, medications, and surgical history. The subjective portion covers the patient's specific complaints for that visit, including details like onset, provocations, severity, and timing. The objective findings section includes the doctor's observations, such as swelling, bruising, or other physical signs. Leah highlights the importance of the assessment or diagnosis section, where the doctor's diagnosis, crucial for VA disability claims, is documented with specific ICD-10 codes. Finally, she describes the plan section, outlining the prescribed treatment or interventions. Take control of your medical evidence related to your benefits and visit https://www.prestigeveteranmctx.com for more information and support. When considering filing a claim for VA disability with the Department of Veterans Affairs (VA) Going through your Service Treatment Records (STR), VA medical records, or Civilian medical notes can be a daunting task, here are some tips on what to look for to gain a better understanding of what is in your charts. Join Leah Bucholz Physician Assistant and former C&P examiner for some information related to medical records review. If you would like more information on our services including Independent Medical Opinion Letters often referred to as nexus letters and records review, please check us out here: https://www.prestigeveteranmctx.com/ #veterans #va #medical #health * This Podcast episode is not medical or legal advice and should not be substituted for advisement from your VSO, accredited agent, or Attorney.

Mar 16, 2023

Welcome to The Veterans Disability Nexus , where we provide unique insights and expertise on medical evidence related to VA-rated disabilities. Leah Bucholz, a US Army Veteran, Physician Assistant, & former Compensation & Pension Examiner shares her knowledge related to Independent Medical Opinions often referred to as “Nexus Letters” in support of your pursuit of VA Disability every Wednesday at 7 AM. In this episode, Leah explains the differences between Nexus Letters (or Independent Medical Opinions) and Disability Benefit Questionnaires (DBQs) in the context of veterans' disability claims. She clarifies that Nexus Letters, written by healthcare professionals, establish a connection between a veteran's service and their injury or illness, often backed by scientific evidence. These letters should detail the writer's qualifications, review the veteran's medical history, and support their conclusions with medical literature. On the other hand, DBQs are forms that quantify the impact of a disability on a veteran, aiding in determining the appropriate disability rating. Leah emphasizes that both qualitative (Nexus Letters for service connection) and quantitative (DBQs for rating severity) aspects are important in claims. Take control of your medical evidence related to your benefits and visit https://www.prestigeveteranmctx.com for more information and support.

Mar 15, 2023

Welcome to The Veterans Disability Nexus , where we provide unique insights and expertise on medical evidence related to VA-rated disabilities. Leah Bucholz, a US Army Veteran, Physician Assistant, & former Compensation & Pension Examiner shares her knowledge related to Independent Medical Opinions often referred to as “Nexus Letters” in support of your pursuit of VA Disability every Wednesday at 7 AM. In this episode, Leah emphasizes the importance for veterans to seek assistance from accredited agents, attorneys, or Veteran Service Officers (VSOs) when filing VA disability claims. She points out that every county has a VSO, which is a free resource for veterans to help with initial claims or appeals. While VSOs vary in quality, veterans are not limited to those in their county and can find one that suits their needs. Additionally, Leah highlights that accredited agents and attorneys, unlike VSOs, usually charge a fee for their services, which is regulated by law. These professionals, who have undergone specific training, mainly assist with appeals rather than initial claims. Leah advises veterans to use va.gov to search for and verify the accreditation of agents and VSOs. Take control of your medical evidence related to your benefits and visit https://www.prestigeveteranmctx.com for more information and support. #veterans #va #medical

Mar 14, 2023

Welcome to The Veterans Disability Nexus, where we provide unique insights and expertise on medical evidence related to VA-rated disabilities. Leah Bucholz, a US Army Veteran, Physician Assistant, & former Compensation & Pension Examiner shares her knowledge related to Independent Medical Opinions often referred to as “Nexus Letters” in support of your pursuit of VA Disability every Wednesday at 7AM. Take control of your medical evidence related to your benefits and visit https://www.prestigeveteranmctx.com for more information and support.