Can the VA reduce my service-connected disability rating if I stop making appointments or accidentally miss one?

PFC Casey Clark Bunker — Sat, 25 Jul 2020 23:41:03 -0400

Response by CPL Pedro Acobes made Jul 26 at 2020 12:52 AM

CPL Pedro Acobes — Sun, 26 Jul 2020 00:52:21 -0400

Yes and no, if you stopped but you’ve been seen elsewhere you still are receiving treatment. I’ve missed many appointments and haven’t encounter a problem but again the VA is here to help and they’re so good at it, no complains

Response by CSM Darieus ZaGara made Jul 26 at 2020 6:48 AM

CSM Darieus ZaGara — Sun, 26 Jul 2020 06:48:52 -0400

While that is not the norm you can be re-evaluated at anytime based on your participation in a given program. If there are treatments tied to your particular disability and you ignore them this can be a problem. For the most part VA ratings change throughout the years for individuals as they improve. I believe we are all re-evaluated on a 5 year cycle, unless of course you are rated permanently and 100% disabled. So not seeking treatment is not only detrimental to your well being, it can affect your re-evaluation.

The bottom line is that the program is not about the money, it is about your health. As stated by another, if you are being treated elsewhere inform your primary care provider so that they know you are dealing with your issues, and keep records of outside treatment in case you are called upon for an appeal of a change in your status.

Response by A1C Riley Sanders made Jul 26 at 2020 7:02 AM

A1C Riley Sanders — Sun, 26 Jul 2020 07:02:12 -0400

PFC Casey Clark Bunker:
I can only give part of that answer: If the VA cures you then they can reduce or remove you , then you will have no need of the VA. Your rating sheet you received would help with the answer you are seeking.It will tell you if you are PERMANENT AND TOTAL DISABLED. I wouldn't recommend dropping the VA, also you should seek out a VA Officer , Most towns have one that can help you with the information you are after.

Response by 1LT John Mills made Jul 26 at 2020 12:38 PM

1LT John Mills — Sun, 26 Jul 2020 12:38:46 -0400

Response by SSgt Brandon Hymel made Jul 27 at 2020 6:17 PM

SSgt Brandon Hymel — Mon, 27 Jul 2020 18:17:51 -0400

No they don't, but please don't make a habit out of it. Veterans like myself has a two month wait for available appointment. And when a veteran can call in it allows veterans who have a long wait to be called in for a more rapid appointment time. Just anytime you previously know it will be missed or if forgotten and late , Call in please. If you have any questions, contact your local VA veterans outreach specialist. They are usually a veteran themselves and are remarkable at reaching goals for the task at hand