Question regarding Disability % from and MEB

AirForce

PEB Forum Regular Member
Registered Member
I have been told that I will face an MEB. I was deployed to the AOR when I suffered a torn vertebral artery in the back of my neck/head (not sure how that happened). Subsequently, I had multiple strokes. I was then medevac'd to Germany (2 weeks) and then to the U.S. I am currently assigned to an Air Force patient squadron. Can anyone estimate (guesstimate) what percentage my military disability would be (not VA)? I have impairment in one arm and one leg. I continually drop items and my leg frequently gives out. I also now have anxiety. I am active duty with 9 years of service. Any input would be greatly appreciated. Thanks!
 
Depends on the labeling of the severity of the residuals, with one arm/one leg the quick case search showed 20/20 (would be a total of 40% dod/va as a "minimum" (I state minimum because they could find it to be non-compensation level)

any other residulals etc? Is the condition "stable" or do you still have severe risk of strokes in the future? You may have a burden of proof to the MEB of unfitting for each residual to get the proper rating. Like for instance the leg and arm are relatively easy, but face droop for example wouldn't be.

I recommend you review some case files specific to your conditions via the BVA
http://www.index.va.gov/search/va/bva_search.jsp

and also the VASRD which is the va schedule fo ratings, the PEB will use the percentages assigned by the VA to the conditions it finds unfitting.
http://www.ecfr.gov/cgi-bin/text-id...&rgn=div5&view=text&node=38:1.0.1.1.5&idno=38
 
Thanks for the quick reply. Others residuals I have are constant headaches after reading or using a computer. I also have a slight case of aphasia ( sometimes I have trouble saying/finding the right word) and I also have constant ringing in my right ear.

My biggest concern is that I don't want to be separated with no benefits. It requires 30 percent to be med retired.......correct.
 
Correct. And remember, the VA will rate any and all conditions using the VARSD. Military/DoD must assign ratings handed down by VA.
 
Be sure you are describing the headaches very detailed. A headache gets you nothing where as migraines can be rated. Most severe headaches meet the definition of a migraine and your doctor needs to take the time to list them as such. You should see a DAV rep too so they can read your medical record and help you list the correct conditions. You may also need to be checked for mood adjustment disorder which is often brought on by extreme changes to ones health and physical ability. Good luck and God Bless.
 
Thanks for the head ache info. I'm not sure what differentiates a headache from a migraine. I just know they hurt like hell and I never had headaches before my stroke. Also, they sent to behaviorial health psychology.....I'm assuming it is for that adjustment issue you mentioned. My ear has been ringing really bad since my stroke. I was tested and I have some hearing loss in my right ear along with the tinnitus. They have scheduled me for an MRI on my ear.. I still have a numb arm and leg that have a lot if nerve pains. I can walk but my leg gives out frequently and I can also grasp things but I often drop things. I have also been referred for a sleep apnia study. My biggest concern for the board is the %. I just hope it is 30 or above. I want retired not seperated.
 
A stroke is considered to be a traumatic brain injury. I recommend that you get a thorough evaluation from a physiatrist. Areas of focus to be occupational therapy, speech/language pathology, neurosphycology, neurology and vision. Throw in some Behavioural Health for good measure.

I was rated for TBI by the VA, the rating was 70%. There are 10 facets of cognitive impairment they look at for rating.


http://www.purpleheart.org/ServiceProgram/Training2009/NVLSP-Wed AM.pdf
 
I got 30% from VA for migraines. You need to show that it impacts your ability to work. Don't do like me…take meds and keep working. Get the documentation needed to show how it IMPACTS your ability to work and other areas of your life.
 
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