The Veterans Disability Nexus

🎙️ “Autoimmune Disease and VA Disability: What Veterans Need to Know”
Written in the same trusted, veteran-focused tone that matches your Prestige Veteran Medical Consulting brand.
This version includes timestamps, takeaways, and keyword integration for platforms like Apple Podcasts, Spotify, or YouTube.
🎙️ Show Notes: Autoimmune Disease and VA Disability — What Veterans Need to Know
Hosted by: Leah Bucholz, Founder & CEO of Prestige Veteran Medical Consulting
🎧 Episode Summary
In this episode, Leah Bucholz explains how autoimmune diseases — such as lupus, rheumatoid arthritis, multiple sclerosis, and others — can qualify for VA disability benefits.
Many Veterans live with autoimmune disorders triggered or worsened by service-related stress, environmental exposures, or other medical conditions. Leah outlines how these diseases are rated, the different ways they can be service-connected, and what the medical literature says about the link between military service and immune system dysfunction.
This episode helps Veterans and their advocates understand how to build stronger, evidence-based VA claims for autoimmune conditions.
🩺 Key Topics Covered
[00:00] — Welcome & Introduction
Leah introduces the topic and shares why autoimmune disease claims can be complex but highly important for Veterans seeking accurate VA ratings.
[01:00] — What Are Autoimmune Diseases?
Overview of what autoimmune conditions are, and examples commonly seen in Veterans: lupus, rheumatoid arthritis, multiple sclerosis, thyroid disorders, psoriasis, and inflammatory bowel disease.
[02:30] — How the VA Rates Autoimmune Diseases
Explanation of how the VA uses different diagnostic codes to rate each condition based on the affected organ system — for example, lupus under DC 6350, rheumatoid arthritis under DC 5002, and multiple sclerosis under DC 8018.
Discussion of factors that determine rating levels: symptom frequency, flare-ups, organ involvement, and overall impairment.
[05:00] — Service Connection Pathways
Leah covers the four main ways autoimmune diseases may be connected to military service:
Direct connection — condition began during active duty.
Presumptive connection — conditions like multiple sclerosis within seven years post-service.
Secondary connection — autoimmune condition caused or aggravated by another service-connected disability (e.g., PTSD, GERD).
Aggravation — pre-existing autoimmune disease worsened by service factors like stress or exposure.
[08:00] — Medical Literature and Research
A look at peer-reviewed studies showing how environmental toxins, chronic stress, and infections can influence autoimmune activity — and how these factors are often present in military populations.
[10:00] — Working with Accredited Legal Professionals
Why Veterans should seek help from VA-accredited attorneys, agents, or Veterans Service Officers (VSOs) who understand autoimmune claims and how to present complex medical evidence effectively.
[12:00] — Final Thoughts
Leah closes with encouragement for Veterans: autoimmune claims are challenging, but with medical evidence and the right advocacy, success is achievable.
💡 Key Takeaways
Autoimmune diseases can be rated under multiple systems depending on the organs affected.
Veterans may qualify for direct, presumptive, secondary, or aggravated service connection.
Research supports links between military stress and environmental exposure and autoimmune conditions.
Accurate, detailed medical opinions are critical for strong VA claims.
Accredited legal professionals can help ensure your claim is properly supported and presented.
🧭 Resources Mentioned
VA Schedule for Rating Disabilities (38 CFR §4)
VA Accreditation Search Tool: https://www.va.gov/ogc/apps/accreditation/

Prestige Veteran Medical Consulting: [insert website URL]
Journal of Autoimmunity (2015) — environmental triggers and immune dysfunction
Environmental Health Perspectives (2016) — military exposures and autoimmune disease
📞 Connect with Prestige Veteran Medical Consulting
Visit [insert website URL] to learn more about independent, evidence-based medical opinions that help strengthen Veterans’ VA disability claims.
Follow us on:
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🔖 Episode Keywords (SEO-formatted)
autoimmune disease VA disability, autoimmune VA claim, VA rating autoimmune, lupus VA disability, rheumatoid arthritis VA claim, multiple sclerosis VA rating, thyroid disorder VA claim, immune system VA disability, VA medical nexus, autoimmune Veterans benefits, VA disability process, VA claim help

🎧 Episode Summary
In this episode, Leah Bucholz explains what to expect during a VA Compensation and Pension (C&P) exam — one of the most important steps in your VA disability claim.
Many Veterans feel anxious about their C&P exam, especially when they’re unsure what the examiner is looking for or how it impacts their claim. Leah breaks down what a C&P exam is, what happens during the evaluation, how to prepare, and what to do after the exam to ensure your medical evidence is clear and accurate.
If you’re a Veteran waiting for your C&P exam or recently completed one, this episode will help you understand the process and advocate for yourself with confidence.
🩺 Key Topics Covered
[00:00] — Welcome & Introduction
Leah introduces herself and Prestige Veteran Medical Consulting. She explains why the C&P exam is one of the most critical parts of the VA disability process.
[01:00] — What Is a C&P Exam?
A clear explanation of what a Compensation and Pension exam is — and what it is not.
Leah clarifies that this is not a treatment appointment but a medical evaluation designed to help the VA determine service connection and severity.
[02:00] — Who Performs the Exam?
Overview of VA and contracted exam providers such as LHI, QTC, and VES, and how their reports are used by the VA to make rating decisions.
[03:00] — What to Expect During the Exam
Leah walks through each step of the process:
Identity verification and paperwork
Review of medical and service records
Discussion of medical history and symptoms
Physical or mental health examination
Questions about daily functioning and work limitations
Examiner’s report submission to the VA
[06:30] — How to Prepare for Your C&P Exam
Practical tips for Veterans to approach the exam confidently:
Be honest and consistent with your symptoms
Explain how your condition affects daily life and employment
Bring documentation or symptom notes if helpful
Talk about bad days, not just good ones
Be respectful and stay calm, even if the process feels frustrating
[09:00] — After the Exam
Leah explains what happens once your exam is complete, how to access your DBQ (Disability Benefits Questionnaire), and what to do if your report contains errors or omissions.
[10:00] — The Role of Accredited Legal Professionals
Why it’s important to work with VA-accredited attorneys, claims agents, or Veterans Service Officers (VSOs) when reviewing exam results or appealing unfavorable decisions.
Leah shares where to find accredited representatives and how they can help interpret exam findings and advocate effectively.

💡 Key Takeaways
A C&P exam is an evaluation used to determine service connection and severity — not a treatment visit.
Examiners collect data for the VA; they do not decide your rating.
Be honest, thorough, and consistent about your symptoms and limitations.
Review your DBQ afterward and seek help if something seems inaccurate.
Working with accredited professionals can help you correct or supplement your exam evidence if needed.
🧭 Resources Mentioned
VA Disability Benefits Questionnaires (DBQs): https://www.benefits.va.gov/compensation/dbq_publicdbqs.asp

VA Accreditation Search Tool: https://www.va.gov/ogc/apps/accreditation/

Prestige Veteran Medical Consulting: https://prestigeveteranmctx.com/
My HealtheVet: https://www.myhealth.va.gov/

📞 Connect with Prestige Veteran Medical Consulting
Visit https://prestigeveteranmctx.com/ to learn more about independent medical opinions and record reviews that support accurate and fair VA disability decisions.

🎧 Episode Summary
In this episode, Leah Bucholz breaks down how gastritis — inflammation of the stomach lining — is evaluated for VA disability benefits.
Many Veterans experience chronic stomach pain, nausea, or digestive issues linked to service-related stress, medications, or other conditions. Leah explains how to build a strong service connection, understand the updated VA rating schedule for gastritis, and use medical evidence and research to support your claim.
Whether you’re filing a new claim or appealing a denial, this episode will help you better understand what the VA looks for and how to strengthen your case.
🩺 Key Topics Covered
[00:00] — Welcome & Introduction
Leah introduces Prestige Veteran Medical Consulting and the focus of today’s episode: helping Veterans understand gastritis and how it relates to VA disability benefits.
[01:00] — What Is Gastritis?
An overview of gastritis, common symptoms, and how it can develop from stress, NSAID use, or alcohol exposure during service.
[02:15] — Updated VA Disability Ratings for Gastritis
Leah explains the revised rating criteria under Diagnostic Code 7307, including:
100% rating for post-surgical recovery from perforation or hemorrhage
60% for severe symptoms with anemia and hospitalization
40% for recurring episodes lasting several days
20% for less frequent episodes
0% for documented history without current symptoms
[04:00] — Service Connection Pathways
Discussion of the three main types of service connection for gastritis claims:
Direct service connection (onset during active duty)
Secondary connection (caused by PTSD, GERD, or medications)
Aggravation of a pre-existing stomach condition
[06:00] — What the Medical Literature Says
Leah reviews peer-reviewed research showing how chronic stress, NSAID use, alcohol, and Helicobacter pylori infection contribute to gastritis — and how these risk factors commonly appear in Veterans.
[08:00] — Working with Accredited Legal Professionals
Tips on finding VA-accredited attorneys, agents, or Veterans Service Officers (VSOs) to assist with claims.
How to use the VA’s accreditation database and connect with reputable organizations like DAV, VFW, and The American Legion.

💡 Key Takeaways
Gastritis can be service-connected directly, secondarily, or through aggravation.
The VA’s updated rating system emphasizes episode frequency, duration, and medical treatment.
Medical literature supports links between stress, medications, and stomach inflammation in Veterans.
Working with accredited professionals and medical experts can strengthen your claim and improve outcomes.
🧭 Resources Mentioned
VA Schedule for Rating Disabilities — Digestive System (38 CFR §4.114)
VA Accreditation Search Tool: https://www.va.gov/ogc/apps/accreditation/

Prestige Veteran Medical Consulting: https://prestigeveteranmctx.com/
World Journal of Gastroenterology (2014) — Research on stress and gastritis
American Journal of Gastroenterology (2010) — NSAID-induced gastric injury

Episode Overview
In this powerful episode, we welcome back Attorney Rebecca Demming of ProVet Legal to unpack the inner workings of the Board of Veterans’ Appeals (BVA). If you’ve ever wondered what really happens behind the scenes when your VA claim ends up at the BVA, this episode is for you. Whether you're a veteran preparing for a hearing or helping someone navigate the appeal system, Rebecca offers expert insight into how the BVA works—and how veterans can improve their chances of a successful outcome.
What You’ll Learn:
What the Board of Veterans’ Appeals (BVA) is and how it differs from the initial VA decision process
The structure and role of the BVA—including Veterans Law Judges
Key steps veterans should take to prepare for a BVA hearing
How evidence is reviewed, and what counts as strong testimony
The most common issues seen at the BVA level (and how to avoid them)
What happens after a BVA decision: approvals, denials, and remands
Pro tips from Rebecca on improving your appeal strategy
Guest Spotlight:
Rebecca Demming, Esq.
Veterans Law Attorney | Founder of ProVet Legal
Rebecca returns to the show with her trademark clarity and compassion for the veteran community. With years of experience representing veterans at all stages of the VA process, she brings invaluable knowledge about the BVA hearing process and legal strategies for success.
Why This Episode Matters:
The BVA can be a critical turning point in a VA disability appeal. Understanding how it works—and how to navigate it with confidence—can make all the difference. This episode gives you the tools, tips, and expert insights you won't find anywhere else.
Key Takeaways:
BVA hearings offer veterans a meaningful chance to present new evidence or clarify their case
Professional representation can significantly improve an appeal's outcome
Staying organized, credible, and prepared makes a major impact
Even if your case is remanded, it’s often part of the process—not the end of the road
Resources Mentioned:
VA.gov: BVA Appeals Information
AMA (Appeals Modernization Act) Guide
ProVet Legal: provetlegal.com
Accredited attorney / VSO search tool

Bipolar disorder is a complex mental health condition that can deeply affect a veteran’s life — impacting mood, judgment, work, and relationships. The VA recognizes bipolar disorder as a rateable mental health condition, and veterans struggling with it may be eligible for significant disability compensation.
In this episode, we’ll explain how the VA rates bipolar disorder, how to prove service connection, what evidence you need, and how to navigate the claims process with confidence.