Hello all, I have been on TDRL for nearly 3 years now with an unfitting condition of major depressive disorder recurrent currently rated at 30% (50% VA). I just received notification to schedule my second TDRL evaluation although it turns out I'm not due for another 6 months. But even so it has brought a couple concerns to mind.
My primary concern is how does the MEB view conditions that have episodes of recurrence and remission. Depending on individual interpretation I definitely still fall between 30-50% but if my condition improves prior to evaluation will I run the risk of a decreased rating and/or severance. It's not hard for me to believe that the DoD could say that although this episode of depression was aggravated by service it has since ended and is no longer service connected. How can the MEB determine if a condition whose symptoms are not always present has permanently worsened?
My other question is whether it is possible for the unfitting condition to be changed due to the misdiagnosis of a mental condition. 6 months after separating I had an episode of mania resulting in the VA changing my diagnosis to bipolar disorder NOS. Without concrete evidence to prove the bipolar prior to the initial board is there any way the unfitting condition could be changed? The only reason I care is I feel bipolar is generally viewed as a more severe mental condition and may help increase my chances of PDRL.
Any input would be appreciated and if more details would help I have no problem with sharing more.
Scott
My primary concern is how does the MEB view conditions that have episodes of recurrence and remission. Depending on individual interpretation I definitely still fall between 30-50% but if my condition improves prior to evaluation will I run the risk of a decreased rating and/or severance. It's not hard for me to believe that the DoD could say that although this episode of depression was aggravated by service it has since ended and is no longer service connected. How can the MEB determine if a condition whose symptoms are not always present has permanently worsened?
My other question is whether it is possible for the unfitting condition to be changed due to the misdiagnosis of a mental condition. 6 months after separating I had an episode of mania resulting in the VA changing my diagnosis to bipolar disorder NOS. Without concrete evidence to prove the bipolar prior to the initial board is there any way the unfitting condition could be changed? The only reason I care is I feel bipolar is generally viewed as a more severe mental condition and may help increase my chances of PDRL.
Any input would be appreciated and if more details would help I have no problem with sharing more.
Scott