Sleep Apnea VA Examinations

A diagnosis of sleep apnea can entitle a veteran to VA disability benefits, as it is a condition listed in the VA Schedule for Rating Disabilities under Diagnostic Code section 6847, Sleep Apnea Syndromes. Under DC 6847, three types of sleep apnea syndromes are listed: obstructive, central, or mixed. You’ll need evidence to determine which category you fall under to apply and ultimately collect VA disability benefits. The process of gathering evidence and applying can be complex and time-consuming, but if you get denied, one of the VA disability lawyers from our VA benefits law firm can help you through every step of the process. 

What to Expect During Your VA Examination for Sleep Apnea

When you file a disability claim with the VA for disability compensation and benefits, you may be required by the VA to undergo a Compensation and Pension (C&P) exam as part of the process. The purpose is to enable the VA to determine the severity of your condition and whether it is service-connected. The exam will document the level of your disability from the condition and, in initial service connection claims, also analyze whether the condition is related to service.. 

The Evaluation Process

Your C&P exam for sleep apnea will involve an examination to determine your present symptoms from the condition. The examiner may question you, observe you, and may perform a limited physical exam. The purpose is for the examiner to have a chance to not only review you but also your claim-related medical records and your claim file (c-file/e-file). You are also allowed to submit additional information to the VA from third-party medical professionals, whose opinions the examiner will also consider in the review of your file. 

The examiner reviews the medical evidence you provide to the VA, highlighting the importance of detailed information about your condition and related symptoms. 

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Sleep Apnea Claims

Detailed Information About Your Symptoms is Essential Evidence

Sleep apnea can be observed through a sleep study, through which your blood oxygen levels, heart rate, and other functions are observed and measured over the course of a full night of sleep. The symptoms that are observed can be provided with your file to support your diagnosis of sleep apnea. If it is determined, for example, that you require the assistance of a CPAP machine to breathe while sleeping, the cost of the machine would be covered, and your sleep apnea VA disability rating would be increased. Although as of the publication of this article VA has proposed changes to the VA sleep apnea rating criteria, the proposed changes have not yet taken effect.  As such, the use of a CPAP machine for service-connected sleep apnea will result in a 50 percent rating.

Discuss Your Sleep Apnea Claim with an Experienced VA Disability Benefits Lawyer

Your sleep apnea VA rating determines the benefits you are entitled to, which can include not only medical treatment coverage but also tax-free monthly disability payments. To learn how we can help you through the process, call us toll-free at 888-878-9350 or visit our site to schedule a free case evaluation.