In this post, we would like to discuss hearing and vision loss among military service members. Hearing loss and tinnitus are especially prevalent among members of the military due to time spent around loud noises, such as gunfire or explosions. Vision loss can be related to injuries from shrapnel, or other medical conditions.
To qualify for a Veterans’ Administration disability rating for service-connected hearing or vision loss, it must be proved that the condition was a direct result of a service-related event. Therefore, a military member must provide not only evidence of such an event, but also a medical opinion linking the two. In addition, proper testing must be performed and documented for a present diagnosis of hearing and vision levels.
If a person suffers only tinnitus rather than complete hearing loss, a disability rating of only 10% will be allowed. Loss of one ear is rated at 30%, and loss of both ears is 50%. Vision ratings vary more widely depending on the type of loss. All vision and hearing losses are listed in the Social Security Administration Blue Book under Section 2.00, Special Senses and Speech – Adult.
An experienced disability attorney can assist in obtaining all eligible disability ratings and approvals from both the Veterans’ Administration and the Social Security Administration for hearing and vision loss issues. Compensation for these veterans’ issues is based on a complex set of requirements that one should not attempt to navigate alone. You should not hesitate to contact an attorney to help with your case.