Can I receive benefits for a pre-existing medical condition?
Yes, you can receive benefits for a pre-existing medical condition under California veterans disability law. Under California law, a veteran can receive benefits for a disability, the effects of which were substantially aggravated by service in the military. This type of disability is commonly referred to as a “service-connected disability.” A pre-existing medical condition is eligible for veterans disability benefits in California if it was worsened during or due to military service. The condition must have been present before joining the military and have preexisted the time of service; however, it must have been made worse by military service in order to qualify for benefits. The amount of benefits received for a service-connected disability depends on the severity of the condition or disability and the number of symptoms associated with it. The U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs uses a rating system to determine the amount of compensation for veterans with service-connected conditions. The VA may also grant a disability rating for partial disability depending on the extent to which the veteran’s condition is worsened. Additionally, veterans may receive additional benefits for secondary conditions related to the service-connected disability. These can include mental health or physical complications that result from the primary condition. For example, a veteran may be eligible for benefits if they suffer from chronic pain due to an initial service-connected disability. Veterans who believe they qualify for benefits due to a pre-existing medical condition should contact their local VA office for more information. An experienced attorney can also help veterans in filing a claim, appealing a denial of benefits, and obtaining all of the benefits they are entitled to.
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