How to understand my NARSUM

I have my NARSUM packet and I would like to know how to understand it. Well, the medical part. I am trying to compare what the doctor wrote to the VASRD but I can't find the numbers the doctor used on the rating page anywhere.

Am I missing something? Or am I supposed to just read the descriptions and try to match those to one in the rating sheet?

I'm just trying to find constructive things to do instead of stressing about what will be and harassing my PEBLO.

Thanks for the help.
 
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I think you may be referring to ICD codes. Either way, yes, you have to compare what was written to the VASRD. What is supposed to happen is that they use the VA disability worksheet, which generally contains all the information needed to rate someone. Then you can compare the NARSUM to the VASRD and see the correct rating based on what was written. However, it is extremely rare in most cases for a NARSUM to cover the required information. This leaves a lot of discretion up to the PEB (i.e., they can then claim the absence of comment on something as a basis for not rating you at the higher level).

One way to review a NARSUM is to read the VASRD criteria, then look for comment on the applicable criteria in the NARSUM. If it is not there- but should be- then you may have a problem. If it is there and everything lines up to support the rating you think is appropriate, then you are likely in good shape for a favorable outcome.
 
Thanks Jason.

I'm so glad you have this forum. I would have lost my mind with all of the uncertainty of the process. Although, I am a fan of the DES program because I would hate to have to do all of the VA stuff after I got out.

Now if Army beats Note Dame this will be a great day!;)
 
on my NARSUM the only things that were listed was my back and my ankle, but as for the VA they listed my back, ankle, headaches, and depression. Will the PEB look at what is just on the NARSUM or will they also look at what the VA looked at when they decide fit or unfit?
 
mrperfect:

It seems you are on the IDES.

You said on the NARSUM they only mentioned your back and ankle, by that do you mean they only wrote unfit for those on the cover sheet?

If that's the case then don't worry. They will be the only things that the military look at to determine if you're fit or unfit for duty. The VA will asses a rating to the other things if they are rateable.
 
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