The Veterans Disability Nexus

Leah Bucholz

Welcome to The Veterans Disability Nexus, where we provide unique insights and expertise on medical evidence related to VA-rated disabilities. Leah Bucholz, a US Army Veteran, Physician Assistant, & former Compensation & Pension Examiner shares her knowledge related to Independent Medical Opinions often referred to as “Nexus Letters” in support of your pursuit of VA Disability every Tuesday & Wednesday at 7AM Central. Take control of your medical evidence related to your benefits and visit https://podcast.prestigeveteranmctx.info/veteran/ for more information and to connect directly with us!

  1. 3D AGO

    VA Ratings and METs Test Results | Cardiac Disability Explained for Veterans

    METs and VA Disability Ratings — What Veterans Should Know About Heart Claims Hosted by: Leah Bucholz, Founder & CEO of Prestige Veteran Medical Consulting 🎧 Episode Summary In this episode, Leah Bucholz explains what METs are and how they impact VA disability ratings, especially for Veterans with heart and respiratory conditions. Many Veterans are surprised to see “METs” listed in their C&P exams or VA rating decisions. Leah breaks down what METs (Metabolic Equivalents of Task) actually measure, how the VA uses them to evaluate the severity of cardiovascular disabilities, and what to expect during METs-based exams. You’ll also learn how METs results tie into VA diagnostic codes, ejection fraction measurements, and symptoms like shortness of breath and fatigue — all key factors in determining accurate VA ratings. 🩺 Key Topics Covered [00:00] — Welcome & Introduction Leah introduces the episode and explains the goal: helping Veterans understand how METs testing influences their VA disability ratings. [01:00] — What Are METs? Definition of METs as “Metabolic Equivalents of Task” — a measure of how much oxygen or energy your body uses during physical activity. Examples of activities by METs level: light tasks (2–3 METs), moderate (4–6), strenuous (7+). [03:00] — Why METs Matter for VA Disability Overview of how the VA uses METs to assess heart and lung function under diagnostic codes like 7005 (ischemic heart disease), 7007 (hypertensive heart disease), and 7016 (valvular disorders). Leah explains how lower METs scores indicate more severe limitations — and potentially higher ratings. [05:00] — VA Rating Levels Based on METs 100% rating: 3 METs or less — symptoms with minimal activity or during rest.60% rating: 4–5 METs — symptoms with light activity, such as walking one block or light chores.30% rating: 6–7 METs — symptoms with moderate activity like climbing stairs or brisk walking.10% rating: 8–10 METs — symptoms only with heavy activity such as jogging or yard work.Leah emphasizes that the lower your METs level, the greater the functional limitation, and the higher your potential rating. [07:00] — What to Expect During METs Testing Two types of exams explained: Exercise Stress Test — treadmill or stationary bike test measuring oxygen use and symptom response.Interview-Based Estimate — for Veterans who can’t safely perform a stress test; examiner estimates METs based on daily activity tolerance.[09:00] — Other Evidence Considered Alongside METs How METs testing is combined with: Ejection fraction (EF) on echocardiogram,BNP or NT-proBNP levels,Symptoms of chest pain, shortness of breath, dizziness, or fatigue,Hospitalizations or ongoing treatment records.[10:30] — How to Prepare for a METs-Based C&P Exam Tips to make sure your evaluation reflects your true condition: Be honest about your activity limits and symptoms.Bring a list of medications and recent cardiac tests.Stop the test immediately if you feel chest pain or dizziness.Explain what daily life feels like on your worst days, not just your best.[12:00] — When to Seek Help from an Accredited Professional Why Veterans should work with VA-accredited attorneys, claims agents, or VSOs to review results, identify rating errors, and submit medical evidence or independent opinions if METs results seem inaccurate. [14:00] — Closing Thoughts Leah wraps up with encouragement: understanding METs helps Veterans better interpret their C&P results and advocate for fair, accurate ratings for heart-related claims. 💡 Key Takeaways METs measure exercise tolerance — how much activity your body can perform before symptoms start.The lower your METs level, the more severe your condition and the higher your potential VA rating.METs results are often paired with ejection fraction, lab results, and documented symptoms for total evaluation.Honesty and clear communication during exams are essential for accurate assessments.Working with accredited legal professionals and medical experts can ensure your METs data is interpreted correctly in your claim.🧭 Resources Mentioned VA Schedule for Rating Disabilities — Cardiovascular System (38 CFR §4.104)VA Accreditation Search Tool: https://www.va.gov/ogc/apps/accreditation/ Prestige Veteran Medical Consulting: https://prestigeveteranmctx.com/My HealtheVet: https://www.myhealth.va.gov/ 📞 Connect with Prestige Veteran Medical Consulting Visit https://prestigeveteranmctx.com/to learn more about independent, evidence-based medical opinions and record reviews for Veterans and their attorneys.

    8 min

  2. FEB 10

    Autoimmune Disease and VA Disability: What Veterans Need to Know

    🎙️ “Autoimmune Disease and VA Disability: What Veterans Need to Know” Written in the same trusted, veteran-focused tone that matches your Prestige Veteran Medical Consulting brand. This version includes timestamps, takeaways, and keyword integration for platforms like Apple Podcasts, Spotify, or YouTube. 🎙️ Show Notes: Autoimmune Disease and VA Disability — What Veterans Need to Know Hosted by: Leah Bucholz, Founder & CEO of Prestige Veteran Medical Consulting 🎧 Episode Summary In this episode, Leah Bucholz explains how autoimmune diseases — such as lupus, rheumatoid arthritis, multiple sclerosis, and others — can qualify for VA disability benefits. Many Veterans live with autoimmune disorders triggered or worsened by service-related stress, environmental exposures, or other medical conditions. Leah outlines how these diseases are rated, the different ways they can be service-connected, and what the medical literature says about the link between military service and immune system dysfunction. This episode helps Veterans and their advocates understand how to build stronger, evidence-based VA claims for autoimmune conditions. 🩺 Key Topics Covered [00:00] — Welcome & Introduction Leah introduces the topic and shares why autoimmune disease claims can be complex but highly important for Veterans seeking accurate VA ratings. [01:00] — What Are Autoimmune Diseases? Overview of what autoimmune conditions are, and examples commonly seen in Veterans: lupus, rheumatoid arthritis, multiple sclerosis, thyroid disorders, psoriasis, and inflammatory bowel disease. [02:30] — How the VA Rates Autoimmune Diseases Explanation of how the VA uses different diagnostic codes to rate each condition based on the affected organ system — for example, lupus under DC 6350, rheumatoid arthritis under DC 5002, and multiple sclerosis under DC 8018. Discussion of factors that determine rating levels: symptom frequency, flare-ups, organ involvement, and overall impairment. [05:00] — Service Connection Pathways Leah covers the four main ways autoimmune diseases may be connected to military service: Direct connection — condition began during active duty.Presumptive connection — conditions like multiple sclerosis within seven years post-service.Secondary connection — autoimmune condition caused or aggravated by another service-connected disability (e.g., PTSD, GERD).Aggravation — pre-existing autoimmune disease worsened by service factors like stress or exposure.[08:00] — Medical Literature and Research A look at peer-reviewed studies showing how environmental toxins, chronic stress, and infections can influence autoimmune activity — and how these factors are often present in military populations. [10:00] — Working with Accredited Legal Professionals Why Veterans should seek help from VA-accredited attorneys, agents, or Veterans Service Officers (VSOs) who understand autoimmune claims and how to present complex medical evidence effectively. [12:00] — Final Thoughts Leah closes with encouragement for Veterans: autoimmune claims are challenging, but with medical evidence and the right advocacy, success is achievable. 💡 Key Takeaways Autoimmune diseases can be rated under multiple systems depending on the organs affected.Veterans may qualify for direct, presumptive, secondary, or aggravated service connection.Research supports links between military stress and environmental exposure and autoimmune conditions.Accurate, detailed medical opinions are critical for strong VA claims.Accredited legal professionals can help ensure your claim is properly supported and presented.🧭 Resources Mentioned VA Schedule for Rating Disabilities (38 CFR §4)VA Accreditation Search Tool: https://www.va.gov/ogc/apps/accreditation/ Prestige Veteran Medical Consulting: [insert website URL]Journal of Autoimmunity (2015) — environmental triggers and immune dysfunctionEnvironmental Health Perspectives (2016) — military exposures and autoimmune disease📞 Connect with Prestige Veteran Medical Consulting Visit [insert website URL] to learn more about independent, evidence-based medical opinions that help strengthen Veterans’ VA disability claims. Follow us on: YouTube: [link]LinkedIn: [link]Facebook: [link]Instagram: [link]🔖 Episode Keywords (SEO-formatted) autoimmune disease VA disability, autoimmune VA claim, VA rating autoimmune, lupus VA disability, rheumatoid arthritis VA claim, multiple sclerosis VA rating, thyroid disorder VA claim, immune system VA disability, VA medical nexus, autoimmune Veterans benefits, VA disability process, VA claim help

    9 min

  3. FEB 3

    VA C&P Exam Explained: What Veterans can Expect

    🎧 Episode Summary In this episode, Leah Bucholz explains what to expect during a VA Compensation and Pension (C&P) exam — one of the most important steps in your VA disability claim. Many Veterans feel anxious about their C&P exam, especially when they’re unsure what the examiner is looking for or how it impacts their claim. Leah breaks down what a C&P exam is, what happens during the evaluation, how to prepare, and what to do after the exam to ensure your medical evidence is clear and accurate. If you’re a Veteran waiting for your C&P exam or recently completed one, this episode will help you understand the process and advocate for yourself with confidence. 🩺 Key Topics Covered [00:00] — Welcome & Introduction Leah introduces herself and Prestige Veteran Medical Consulting. She explains why the C&P exam is one of the most critical parts of the VA disability process. [01:00] — What Is a C&P Exam? A clear explanation of what a Compensation and Pension exam is — and what it is not. Leah clarifies that this is not a treatment appointment but a medical evaluation designed to help the VA determine service connection and severity. [02:00] — Who Performs the Exam? Overview of VA and contracted exam providers such as LHI, QTC, and VES, and how their reports are used by the VA to make rating decisions. [03:00] — What to Expect During the Exam Leah walks through each step of the process: Identity verification and paperworkReview of medical and service recordsDiscussion of medical history and symptomsPhysical or mental health examinationQuestions about daily functioning and work limitationsExaminer’s report submission to the VA[06:30] — How to Prepare for Your C&P Exam Practical tips for Veterans to approach the exam confidently: Be honest and consistent with your symptomsExplain how your condition affects daily life and employmentBring documentation or symptom notes if helpfulTalk about bad days, not just good onesBe respectful and stay calm, even if the process feels frustrating[09:00] — After the Exam Leah explains what happens once your exam is complete, how to access your DBQ (Disability Benefits Questionnaire), and what to do if your report contains errors or omissions. [10:00] — The Role of Accredited Legal Professionals Why it’s important to work with VA-accredited attorneys, claims agents, or Veterans Service Officers (VSOs) when reviewing exam results or appealing unfavorable decisions. Leah shares where to find accredited representatives and how they can help interpret exam findings and advocate effectively. 💡 Key Takeaways A C&P exam is an evaluation used to determine service connection and severity — not a treatment visit.Examiners collect data for the VA; they do not decide your rating.Be honest, thorough, and consistent about your symptoms and limitations.Review your DBQ afterward and seek help if something seems inaccurate.Working with accredited professionals can help you correct or supplement your exam evidence if needed.🧭 Resources Mentioned VA Disability Benefits Questionnaires (DBQs): https://www.benefits.va.gov/compensation/dbq_publicdbqs.asp VA Accreditation Search Tool: https://www.va.gov/ogc/apps/accreditation/ Prestige Veteran Medical Consulting: https://prestigeveteranmctx.com/My HealtheVet: https://www.myhealth.va.gov/ 📞 Connect with Prestige Veteran Medical Consulting Visit https://prestigeveteranmctx.com/ to learn more about independent medical opinions and record reviews that support accurate and fair VA disability decisions.

    10 min

  4. JAN 27

    Gastritis and VA Disability: What Veterans Need to Know

    🎧 Episode Summary In this episode, Leah Bucholz breaks down how gastritis — inflammation of the stomach lining — is evaluated for VA disability benefits. Many Veterans experience chronic stomach pain, nausea, or digestive issues linked to service-related stress, medications, or other conditions. Leah explains how to build a strong service connection, understand the updated VA rating schedule for gastritis, and use medical evidence and research to support your claim. Whether you’re filing a new claim or appealing a denial, this episode will help you better understand what the VA looks for and how to strengthen your case.🩺 Key Topics Covered [00:00] — Welcome & Introduction Leah introduces Prestige Veteran Medical Consulting and the focus of today’s episode: helping Veterans understand gastritis and how it relates to VA disability benefits. [01:00] — What Is Gastritis? An overview of gastritis, common symptoms, and how it can develop from stress, NSAID use, or alcohol exposure during service. [02:15] — Updated VA Disability Ratings for Gastritis Leah explains the revised rating criteria under Diagnostic Code 7307, including: 100% rating for post-surgical recovery from perforation or hemorrhage60% for severe symptoms with anemia and hospitalization40% for recurring episodes lasting several days20% for less frequent episodes0% for documented history without current symptoms[04:00] — Service Connection Pathways Discussion of the three main types of service connection for gastritis claims: Direct service connection (onset during active duty)Secondary connection (caused by PTSD, GERD, or medications)Aggravation of a pre-existing stomach condition[06:00] — What the Medical Literature Says Leah reviews peer-reviewed research showing how chronic stress, NSAID use, alcohol, and Helicobacter pylori infection contribute to gastritis — and how these risk factors commonly appear in Veterans. [08:00] — Working with Accredited Legal Professionals Tips on finding VA-accredited attorneys, agents, or Veterans Service Officers (VSOs) to assist with claims. How to use the VA’s accreditation database and connect with reputable organizations like DAV, VFW, and The American Legion. 💡 Key Takeaways Gastritis can be service-connected directly, secondarily, or through aggravation.The VA’s updated rating system emphasizes episode frequency, duration, and medical treatment.Medical literature supports links between stress, medications, and stomach inflammation in Veterans.Working with accredited professionals and medical experts can strengthen your claim and improve outcomes.🧭 Resources Mentioned VA Schedule for Rating Disabilities — Digestive System (38 CFR §4.114)VA Accreditation Search Tool: https://www.va.gov/ogc/apps/accreditation/ Prestige Veteran Medical Consulting: https://prestigeveteranmctx.com/World Journal of Gastroenterology (2014) — Research on stress and gastritisAmerican Journal of Gastroenterology (2010) — NSAID-induced gastric injury

    8 min

  5. JAN 20

    VA Appeals at the BVA: How to Prepare and What to Expect

    Episode Overview In this powerful episode, we welcome back Attorney Rebecca Demming of ProVet Legal to unpack the inner workings of the Board of Veterans’ Appeals (BVA). If you’ve ever wondered what really happens behind the scenes when your VA claim ends up at the BVA, this episode is for you. Whether you're a veteran preparing for a hearing or helping someone navigate the appeal system, Rebecca offers expert insight into how the BVA works—and how veterans can improve their chances of a successful outcome. What You’ll Learn: What the Board of Veterans’ Appeals (BVA) is and how it differs from the initial VA decision processThe structure and role of the BVA—including Veterans Law JudgesKey steps veterans should take to prepare for a BVA hearingHow evidence is reviewed, and what counts as strong testimonyThe most common issues seen at the BVA level (and how to avoid them)What happens after a BVA decision: approvals, denials, and remandsPro tips from Rebecca on improving your appeal strategyGuest Spotlight: Rebecca Demming, Esq. Veterans Law Attorney | Founder of ProVet Legal Rebecca returns to the show with her trademark clarity and compassion for the veteran community. With years of experience representing veterans at all stages of the VA process, she brings invaluable knowledge about the BVA hearing process and legal strategies for success. Why This Episode Matters: The BVA can be a critical turning point in a VA disability appeal. Understanding how it works—and how to navigate it with confidence—can make all the difference. This episode gives you the tools, tips, and expert insights you won't find anywhere else. Key Takeaways: BVA hearings offer veterans a meaningful chance to present new evidence or clarify their caseProfessional representation can significantly improve an appeal's outcomeStaying organized, credible, and prepared makes a major impactEven if your case is remanded, it’s often part of the process—not the end of the roadResources Mentioned: VA.gov: BVA Appeals InformationAMA (Appeals Modernization Act) GuideProVet Legal: provetlegal.comAccredited attorney / VSO search tool

    30 min

  6. JAN 13

    VA Disability for Bipolar Disorder: What Veterans Need to Know

    Bipolar disorder is a complex mental health condition that can deeply affect a veteran’s life — impacting mood, judgment, work, and relationships. The VA recognizes bipolar disorder as a rateable mental health condition, and veterans struggling with it may be eligible for significant disability compensation. In this episode, we’ll explain how the VA rates bipolar disorder, how to prove service connection, what evidence you need, and how to navigate the claims process with confidence.

    9 min

  7. JAN 6

    Military Police and VA Disability – Understanding the Hidden Impact of Service

    In this episode, we shine a light on the unique challenges faced by Military Police (MPs) and how their demanding service often leads to both physical and mental health conditions that qualify for VA disability benefits. Military Police endure high-stress situations, exposure to trauma, and physically dangerous duties — all of which can result in long-term health issues such as PTSD, hearing loss, orthopedic injuries, and chronic pain. Yet, many MPs don’t realize these conditions may be service-connected and compensable through the VA. We’ll break down how to document your experiences, file strong claims, and overcome common challenges specific to MP veterans. 🔍 Topics Covered: The role of Military Police and how service conditions affect healthCommon service-connected disabilities among MPs:PTSD, anxiety, and depressionBack, knee, and shoulder injuries from physical strainHearing loss and tinnitus from weapons and sirensTraumatic brain injury (TBI) from accidents or blastsEstablishing service connection for MP-related disabilitiesImportance of incident reports, buddy statements, and medical recordsHow to strengthen PTSD claims for law enforcement-related traumaUsing nexus letters and Independent Medical Opinions (IMOs) to support your claimUnderstanding secondary conditions (sleep apnea, migraines, chronic pain)What to do if your VA claim is deniedNavigating the VA appeal process and gathering new evidence💡 Key Takeaways: Military Police veterans face unique service-related physical and psychological risks.Many MP-related injuries and mental health conditions can be service-connected.Strong evidence — medical documentation, nexus letters, and credible lay statements — is key to success.PTSD claims for MPs often require detailed stressors and service verification.If your claim was denied, a well-prepared appeal with professional medical support can reverse the decision.🧾 Resources Mentioned: VA Form 21-0781 – PTSD Stressor StatementVA Schedule for Rating Disabilities (Mental and Musculoskeletal Conditions)VA Hearing Loss and Tinnitus Rating GuideNational Center for PTSD – Resources for Law Enforcement and VeteransVeterans Law Clinics and Accredited Claims Agents🎧 Tune In If You’re a Veteran Who: Served as Military Police and is dealing with ongoing health issuesExperiences PTSD, anxiety, or depression from service dutiesSuffers from back, knee, or hearing injuries tied to military serviceHas had a VA claim denied and wants to strengthen your appealWants to better understand your VA disability rating and entitlements

    10 min

  8. 12/30/2025

    Folds of Honor: Supporting Veterans and Their Families

    In this episode, we spotlight Folds of Honor, a nonprofit organization that provides educational scholarships to the spouses and children of fallen or disabled service members and first responders. We’ll discuss the mission, the impact, and how veterans, families, and supporters can get involved. Whether you’re a veteran, a student, or someone looking to give back, this episode explains how Folds of Honor helps ensure that the sacrifices of America’s heroes are never forgotten. 💡 What You’ll Learn What Folds of Honor is and how it beganThe mission behind the organizationWho qualifies for Folds of Honor scholarshipsHow the scholarship process worksThe impact these scholarships have on military and first responder familiesHow you can support or partner with Folds of HonorReal stories of lives changed through education and generosity🇺🇸 Key Discussion Points 1. The Mission Founded in 2007 by Lt. Col. Dan Rooney, Folds of Honor began with a simple yet powerful mission: to honor the sacrifice by educating the legacy. The organization provides academic scholarships to spouses and children of America’s fallen or disabled heroes — ensuring that their dreams of education live on. 2. Scholarship Programs Folds of Honor offers two main scholarship types: 🎓 Higher Education Scholarships: For spouses or children pursuing college or post-secondary education.📚 Children’s Fund Scholarships: For private schooling (K–12).Eligibility includes families of fallen or disabled service members, as well as first responders (police, firefighters, EMTs). 3. Impact & Reach Over 52,000 scholarships awarded since inceptionMore than $240 million in educational assistance providedScholarships are available across all 50 statesThe organization maintains a 4-star Charity Navigator rating for financial transparency and impact4. How to Apply Applications typically open February 1 through March 31 each year. Applicants must provide documentation of eligibility, academic transcripts, and a personal statement. Scholarships are renewable each year with continued academic progress. 5. How to Support There are many ways to contribute to Folds of Honor’s mission: Donate: One-time or recurring donations help fund scholarships directly.Host or join a fundraiser: Events like Patriot Golf Days, charity runs, or local drives.Corporate partnerships: Many companies collaborate to sponsor educational funds.Volunteer: Support local Folds of Honor chapters and community events.6. Why It Matters Behind every folded flag is a story of service, sacrifice, and family. Folds of Honor ensures that those stories continue through education — helping families heal, grow, and build a brighter future. 🔗 Helpful Resources 🌐 Folds of Honor Official Website 🎓 Scholarship Information & Application 🏌️ Patriot Golf Days ❤️ Volunteer & Get Involved Charity Navigator – Folds of Honor Rating 💬 Key Takeaway Folds of Honor stands as a beacon of gratitude and hope — transforming the legacy of sacrifice into opportunity through education. Every donation, partnership, or shared story helps make sure the families of America’s heroes are supported and remembered.

    8 min
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About

Welcome to The Veterans Disability Nexus, where we provide unique insights and expertise on medical evidence related to VA-rated disabilities. Leah Bucholz, a US Army Veteran, Physician Assistant, & former Compensation & Pension Examiner shares her knowledge related to Independent Medical Opinions often referred to as “Nexus Letters” in support of your pursuit of VA Disability every Tuesday & Wednesday at 7AM Central. Take control of your medical evidence related to your benefits and visit https://podcast.prestigeveteranmctx.info/veteran/ for more information and to connect directly with us!

Information

  • Creator
    Leah Bucholz
  • Years Active
    2023 - 2026
  • Episodes
    242
  • Rating
    Clean
  • Copyright
    © Copyright 2023 All Rights Reserved.
  • Show Website
    The Veterans Disability Nexus

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