Personal hearing at RO before a BVA appeal.

[yardbirdaa]

I was just notified that I will have a hearing at the regional office with a hearing officer regarding an appeal I filed against a rating of 30% for adjustment disorder with depression, anxiety, and sleep disorder. My contention is that it is not that diagnosis, but PTSD, and my rating should be at the 50% level because I have gotten worse in the almost three years since my C&P.

As evidence, I have a letter from my VA shrink saying my diagnosis is chronic PTSD with major depressive disorder. I asked him to give me a diagnosis and prognosis for my MEB.

My question is about the personal hearing. What type of evidence should I prepare to present at this hearing? I have been using a service organization, but it seems every time I call, there is a new person working my case, which doesn't give me alot of confidence in them.

Anyone that's been through this have any suggestions?

 

[ikory]

It seems to me if the doc says you have PTSD that evidence should be enough. Although getting a second and third opinion from different doctors should be the golden ticket. Prepare a personal statement at the hearing about your condition. You are your best advocate gathering the evidence. I feel your pain and I wish you the best of luck. Keep us update on what happens.