In the VA’s 2023 annual report, it showed that 1.5 million veterans received a VA rating for digestive disorders. Some reasons why a veteran may develop a digestive issue are stress and anxiety from military service, changes in gut microbiome due to deployments, or post-infectious IBS following gastroenteritis during service. The VA rates digestive disorders using the VA’s Schedule for Rating Disabilities, which provides specific criteria for evaluating the severity of various digestive conditions. In this blog, we will go over some of the common digestive disorders recognized by the VA and their rating criteria, as well as recent updates to how some of these issues are being rated.
Common Digestive Issues Recognized by the VA
The VA recognizes a category of digestive disorders called Functional Gastrointestinal Disorders. Some of these conditions include:
- Irritable bowel syndrome (IBS)
- Functional dyspepsia
- Functional vomiting
- Functional constipation
- Functional bloating
- Functional abdominal pain syndrome
- Functional dysphagia
VA Disability Ratings for Digestive Conditions
The VA uses a percentage-based system to rate disabilities. For digestive disorders, ratings typically range from 0% to 100%, depending on the severity
- 0%: Symptoms are present but don’t interfere with daily activities
- 10-30%: Mild to moderate symptoms that occasionally impact daily life
- 40-60%: Frequent, moderate to severe symptoms that regularly affect daily activities
- 70-100%: Severe, constant symptoms that significantly impair quality of life
Learn More: What Do the VA Disability Ratings Look Like in Real Life?
Recent 2024 Rating Update
In 2024, the VA announced an update to the VA Schedule for Rating Disabilities, specifically for digestive disorders. The three biggest changes were for celiac disease, irritable bowel syndrome, and hemorrhoids.
- New Celiac Rating Criteria: Celiac disease now has specific rating criteria. Previously, veterans with celiac disease were evaluated using general criteria, with ratings ranging from 0% to 30%. With the new diagnostic code, veterans can receive ratings from 0% to 80%, depending on the severity of their condition.
- New IBS Rating Criteria: Previously, ratings for IBS were 0%, 10%, and 30%. Under the new criteria, veterans can now receive ratings of 10%, 20%, or 30% based on symptom frequency.
- New Hemorrhoids Rating Criteria: Previously, the VA assigned a 0% rating for mild or moderate hemorrhoids and 10% or 20% for more severe cases. Under the new criteria, mild or moderate hemorrhoids now qualify for a 10% rating.
The VA Claims Process for Digestive Issues
Here are some essential steps involved in filing a VA disability claim for digestive issues:
- Gather Medical Evidence: Collect all relevant medical records, including diagnoses, treatment history, doctor statements, and any tests or procedures related to your digestive condition.
- Submit your Claim: Complete and submit VA Form 21-526EZ, “Application for Disability Compensation and Related Compensation Benefits” as well as any supporting documents such as medical records.
- Attend a C&P Exam: The VA may schedule a Compensation & Pension (C&P) exam to assess the severity of your digestive issues. During this exam, you will be asked to discuss your symptoms and how they affect your daily life.
- VA Review and Decision: The VA reviews your submitted claim, medical evidence, and C&P exam results. Depending on the severity of your condition, the VA will assign a disability rating. This rating determines your monthly compensation amount.
Getting Assistance with Your Claim
Navigating the VA disability claims process can be complex, especially with digestive disorders. If you’re a veteran struggling with a digestive disorder caused by your service, we understand the challenges you face. We are dedicated to helping you obtain the benefits you deserve. Contact us for a free consultation to discuss how we can assist you.
