SERVING
Those That
SERVED
Questions & Answers
INSTRUCTIONS: Please read each question carefully. If you are able to answer question appropriately use the form below the question to respond. Your name will not appear on the public answer page. Only your initials and date of your response will be visible.
Q732: I am currently listed at 50 percent. Presently getting reevaluated since my knees have gotten significantly worse. Have an appointment with a VA specialist. Looking like I need knee replacement on my left knee and serious deterioration to my right knee. I had 10 percent on my ears, 30 on my left knee and 10 on my right knee. If my knee is to receive a joint replacement, how does that effect my disability rating? Will my rating go down and eliminate my only source for health care?
If you have a question about benefits, compensation, pension or VA related issues please submit here.
Use Form Below To Respond
Your generous gift will go directly to helping veterans and dependents. We simply cannot continue without your help for our community of veterans and dependents who count on us for our Veteran Pantry. Your support will make a lasting impact.
A1: For a knee resurfacing or total arthroplasty, the rating will be 4 months @ 100% and then automatically reduced to no less than 30%. If there are serious problems with the knee replacement (limitation of motion or pain) then it can be rated @ 60%. The VA just recently changed the temporary 100% (para 30) benefits for the knee. It was 100% for a year but now is 4 months. You can find this information in 38 CFR 4.71a - Schedule of ratings - musculoskeletal system. (DS) 6/10/21
A2: You won't lose your medical care even if your disability payment is reduced as any injury or disease you will continue to receive medical care for that. File a claim to upgrade the right knee and your hearing. You will be temporary 100% during your recovery time if your knee is replaced. (GR) 6/10/21