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The Department of Veterans Affairs (VA) is issuing a new rule focused on service dogs. Specifically, the rule will increase benefits for service dogs being used by qualified veterans. Further, the rule will outline which precise impairments the VA approves for service dog use.
The VA will only authorize service dog benefits under certain conditions:
First, the VA will mandate veterans supply "clinical determinations," which must have been written by a VA clinician. That determination must state the VA clinician believes employing a service dog will allow the veteran to manage his or her impairment and therefore live an independent lifestyle.
Second, benefits will only be authorized if the veteran has been diagnosed with one of the following impairments:
Substantial mobility impairment can be defined as either a spinal cord injury dysfunction, or some other "chronic impairment" significantly limiting mobility. Also included in the definition is traumatic brain injuries (TBI) because they limit a person's ability to make proper decisions based on their environment. Also included are some seizure disorders, as long as the disorder causes the veteran to become immobile.
By imposing these new requirements, the VA seeks to eliminate such circumstances as the VA clinician believing there are other methods, outside of service dogs, allowing veterans the ability to live independently. Those other methods could include either technological devices or rehabilitative programs.
The rule will also provide insurance policies, to include all co-pays and deductibles, to qualified veterans covering veterinary care for the service dog. Additionally, the VA will provide all necessary hardware. Routine care of the animal, such as licenses and grooming, however, will not be covered.
If you are a disabled veteran who has been denied disability compensation or have not yet applied for benefits from the VA, a South Florida disability attorney from LaVan & Neidenberg is ready to help. To learn if you are entitled to certain programs and benefits contact our veterans disability rights firm today - 1-888-234-5758.
Soldiers can return home with a number of conditions, injuries, and aggravated preexisting conditions. If you believe you have a service-connected physical or psychological injury you may be entitled to Veterans’ Disability Compensation.
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