Skin Diseases:
To qualify for VA disability benefits for skin diseases, you must meet the following criteria:
Current Diagnosis: You need a formal diagnosis of a skin disease from a qualified medical professional.
Service Connection: Your skin disease needs to be service-connected, meaning:
Developed during service: You first experienced the skin disease while on active duty.
Pre-existing condition worsened by service: You had a skin disease before service, but it was significantly worsened by events or exposures during your time in the military.
Presumptive service connection: Your skin disease falls under certain VA presumptions linked to exposure to specific hazards during service, such as Agent Orange or burn pits.
Common Service-Connected Skin Diseases:
Psoriasis: A chronic autoimmune condition causing scaly, red patches on the skin.
Eczema (Atopic Dermatitis): Characterized by itchy, inflamed, and dry skin.
Acne: Can be worsened by military service conditions and medications
Chloracne: A severe form of acne caused by exposure to dioxin, sometimes linked to Agent Orange.
Skin Cancer: Types like melanoma can be linked to sun exposure, burn pit exposure, and other service-related factors.
Scars: From burns, injuries, or surgeries sustained during service.
VA Disability Ratings for Skin Diseases:
The VA rates skin diseases based on the extent and severity of the affected area of skin:
Mild or moderate cases: May receive a 10% or 30% rating.
Severe or disfiguring cases: Could receive up to 60% or 80% ratings, depending on the level of impairment.
Skin conditions requiring systemic medications or phototherapy: May also qualify for higher ratings.
Important Considerations:
Presumptive Conditions: If you served in areas where exposure to Agent Orange, burn pits, or other toxins is suspected, you may be eligible for presumptive service connection for certain skin diseases.
Secondary Conditions: Some skin diseases increase your risk for other health problems or cause emotional distress, potentially qualifying for additional disability benefits if service-connected.
The VA claim process for skin diseases can be complex, especially when demonstrating service connection. Consider seeking help from an accredited veterans law attorney experienced in VA disability claims.