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.