Related article: required. In the second step of the inquiry, however, if the
schedular evaluation does not contemplate the claimant's
level of Purchase V-Gel disability and symptomatology and is found
inadequate, the RO or Board must determine whether the
claimant's exceptional disability picture exhibits other
related factors such as those provided by the regulation as
"governing norms." 38 C.F.R. 3.321(b)(1) (related factors
include "marked interference with employment" and "frequent
periods of hospitalization").
Initial Rating for Diabetes Mellitus
The Veteran's diabetes mellitus was initially rated 20
percent disabling under Diagnostic Code 7913 from September
2003. The 20 percent initial disability rating for diabetes
mellitus was based on evidence showing oral hypoglycemic
agents and a restricted diet were required.
The Veteran's diabetic complications have been separately
rated. These include a 0 percent rating for erectile
dysfunction assigned under Diagnostic Code 7522 (from
September 2003). During the appeal of the initial rating for
diabetes mellitus, 0 percent ratings were assigned under
Diagnostic Code 8520 for peripheral neuropathy of the right
and left lower extremities prior to May 2, 2008, Buy V-Gel Online and as 10
percent disabling for the period since May 2, 2008. A 0
percent rating under Diagnostic Code 6099-6006 Buy V-Gel was also
assigned for nonproliferative diabetic retinopathy of the
left eye and bilateral cataracts (from February 2004).
Diagnostic Code 7913 provides for a 20 percent rating where
the diabetes mellitus requires insulin and a restricted diet,
or an oral hypoglycemic agent and a restricted diet. A 40
percent rating is warranted for diabetes mellitus requiring
insulin, restricted diet, and regulation of activities. A 60
percent rating is warranted for diabetes mellitus requiring
insulin, restricted diet, and regulation of activities with
episodes of ketoacidosis or hypoglycemic reactions requiring
one or two hospitalizations per year or twice a month visits
to a diabetic care provider, plus complications that would
not be compensable if separately evaluated. A 100 percent
rating is warranted for diabetes mellitus requiring more than
one daily injection of insulin, restricted diet, and
regulation of activities (avoidance of strenuous occupational
and recreational activities) with episodes of ketoacidosis or
hypoglycemic reactions requiring at least three
hospitalizations per year or weekly visits to a diabetic care
provider, plus either progressive loss of weight and strength
or complications that would be compensable if separately Order V-Gel Online
evaluated. 38 Purchase V-Gel Online C.F.R.