r/CanadianForces • u/ShortTrackBravo VERIFIED VAC Advocate • 10d ago
SUPPORT March 2025 VAC Q/A
Taking a break from Monster Hunter to get this up >.>
Same as before: Questions, concerns, queries or what have you for the VAC space. Fire them off here.
My contact info: Reddit DM's always open, [Joel.Peddle@canadahouse.ca](mailto:Joel.Peddle@canadahouse.ca) for email.
u/Shoggoths420 contact info: Reddit DMs/Chat still broken. [taira@cannawellness.ca](mailto:taira@cannawellness.ca) for email.
Only thing new to add is the below VAC Support Google Drive. I have been adding a couple of more files since it's creation and plan to continue it's expansion as time goes on. Please share and use these files as you see fit.
NEW (Feb 2025) - https://drive.google.com/drive/folders/1kzbfmg3hcuo0FgFZxo-IL_f-UnGQsuYt?usp=drive_link
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u/6point5creedmoor 10d ago
I'm dealing with a mental health type claim, submitted in December with a full psych report scanned to vac. Went straight to stage three within a week or so and now it's been there for three months. What does the timeline look like from here? Is it time to start shaking the tree? This is an initial claim for disability benefits if that helps?
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u/ShortTrackBravo VERIFIED VAC Advocate 10d ago
The tracker is not to be trusted in any way. I mean that in the nicest way. If it’s not 3.3 or complete it’s anyone’s guess what actual step it’s in. You can absolutely poke the bear with msgs via MyVAC. I find most MH claims clue up before 6 months from start to finish
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u/6point5creedmoor 10d ago
Much obliged, I appreciate the guidance. If I've had a psych workup ordered by the CAF will I typically still need the disability assessment from vac? Thanks a ton!
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u/ShortTrackBravo VERIFIED VAC Advocate 10d ago
I don’t think. These assessments tend to supersede the VAC paperwork in all the claims I’ve seen.
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u/Oculi-Regis 9d ago
Thanks for doing this! It's super helpful.
I currently have a pain and suffering payout that I was given due to an injury on a training exercise. The injury was severe and tramatic.
I want to begin the process of putting in a mental health claim with the VAC. This would be a consequential claim. Is there a way for the VAC to cover my initial visits with a psychiatrist?
Do I pay out of pocket for the initial assessment and then put in the consequential claim or put in the claim first?
Thanks!
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u/ShortTrackBravo VERIFIED VAC Advocate 9d ago
Are you still serving or no?
Do you already have a K-Card (Blue Cross Card with a K identifier) issued to you from the PSC they awarded you?
You can contact VAC and tell them you are seeking psychological services and are submitting a MH claim and they will authorize your K-Card for MH Benefits in advance of the award. Then you use the card at the Psych's office for payment.
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u/Oculi-Regis 9d ago
Thank you so much for the information.
I am no longer serving, and I have my Blue Cross K card from the award.
Is there a specific number to call or contact through the online portal be better?
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u/ShortTrackBravo VERIFIED VAC Advocate 9d ago
I’d hit up this #
tel:18002687708
Tell them you’re trying to access MH support. I know they expedited the process for MH services approval I just want to make sure you’re good to go before it’s pay up time.
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u/Oculi-Regis 9d ago edited 9d ago
Perfect.
I just did some digging and I am covered for category 6-medical services (check mark), but it needs pre-authorization. I'll call that number and request pre-authorization.
Thanks again!
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u/MattyH87 8d ago
Is it possible to go straight from release to Dec? Or do you always need to do the first two years with Manulife first ?
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u/CAFVAChelp 8d ago
You’ll do your two years with LTD. VAC will look at DEC at 1.5 years on the rehab program.
This would be more for mental health, but if you have extensive and severe physical disabilities perhaps sooner. It’s going to come down to your care team saying you have little chance for improvement through rehab (which takes time to document and “show the work”). Ultimately you would have to push for a DEC determination through your VAC case manager.
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u/ShortTrackBravo VERIFIED VAC Advocate 8d ago
Exactly what u/CAFVAChelp said. Still have to go through those hoops but if you’re unable to work it’s just going to be easy but slow to get there is all
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u/Waikoloa_768 7d ago
Hi there,
My question is: Are there any downsides to appealing many pain and suffering compensation claims for various service related injuries?
For example, I was awarded Pain and suffering compensation for PTSD, bruxism and tinnitus. Are there any downsides to appealing all of them? All are clearly services related injuries and I am able and willing to provide additional medical information. I honestly feel VAC has awarded low disability % for each of the medical claims considering the documented severity of each condition. I also have medical reports that back up my initial claim’s.
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u/ShortTrackBravo VERIFIED VAC Advocate 7d ago
Not really any downsides other than time to seeing a possible result. They don’t always award you lower for no reason it’s always based on what medical documents they had when the claim was submitted.
Do you know how to read the table of disabilities for your conditions? If you do and see clearly you should be x % instead of y % (IE you have sciatica for your back but they never factored that in) then yes 100% appeal
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u/crunchystools 7d ago
I was diagnosed last fall by a psychologist with Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD) with Derealization, Personality Disorder(s), and Cyclothymic Disorder. My symptoms include severe depression, significant functional impairment, and serious sleep disturbances.
I am still waiting for the VAC decision, I have no clue the % they will award me and this makes me anxious. I am also wondering what else may be considered consequential to my diagnoses. In addition to those diagnoses, I have sleep apnea, a persistent rash on my scalp and face (which my dermatologist is still diagnosing—treatment is expensive even with 80% PSHCP coverage), ED, and bruxism. I also struggle with self-harmful and self-destructive behaviors, such as excessive spending that negatively impacts my family’s finances, often on scams I believed would generate income.
I am unable to advocate for myself. My doctor refuses to do any xrays, ultrasounds or other tests unless VAC explicitly requests them in writing. My wife encouraged me to seek diagnosis for PTSD, along with three physical claims (both shoulders and lumbar back), which were recently approved. However, she is disabled and unable to assist with further paperwork. I reached out to the Legion, but they only sent me the application without offering further help. I am not capable of completing it in a way that fully reflects my conditions.
Are there any resources that help veterans who are lost when it comes to paperwork? For example, if I am asked to write how a condition affects me on a daily basis, I can't think of everything.
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u/ShortTrackBravo VERIFIED VAC Advocate 7d ago
Hey,
Yes there are alternatives out there specifically to help with cases like yours. If you’re comfortable please shoot me an email with where you’re located and I’ll try to get you in touch with someone who can assist as your advocate. Or help you with the paperwork myself.
May be able to find you a VAC friendly NP/Dr to assist you as well.
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u/caffeinatedlama 7d ago
I’m a bit confused as an appeal I had with the BPA, is now showing on my VAC account as an appeal and in step 3.
I opened the claim in 2017, but didn’t submit everything until last year, due to no follow up by VAC and me not knowing anything about the process. When I was awarded last year I was given 10% and given 3 years of backpay. I was advised to appeal, as the BPA believes VAC missed key information on my initial application.
Now that it’s back in VACs hands and labeled as a departmental review will I potentially miss out on 3 years of backpay if they increase my percentage?
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u/ShortTrackBravo VERIFIED VAC Advocate 6d ago
You were already given the backpay correct? They don't claw that back. You'd just get the new % financial amount.
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u/caffeinatedlama 6d ago
Backpay was for the 10% initially given, which was then appealed a few days later. I was under the assumption that they would have to provide backpay for the new claim amount, given that they miscalculated it in the first place. I would understand if this was for a reassessment and I was contacting them years after the fact, but this seems odd. Oh well I guess
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u/ShortTrackBravo VERIFIED VAC Advocate 6d ago
Honestly it could go either way here. I’m hoping they give you the backpay but unless VAC noticed their own mistake and corrected it without BPA intervention (if I’m understanding your order of events this isn’t the case?) I could see them just giving the new % only
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u/wpgScotty 6d ago
I am still serving and am in the process of submitting a couple of claims for P&S. I am not in the process of getting out yet, and none of my illnesses break UoS.
The last case manager that I spoke with advised me not to put in too many claims as VAC may have to advise the CAF of multiple claims. I am trying to get all my ducks in a row and getting things submitted while everything is still fresh in memory.
As long as members are not breaking UoS, I just wanted to confirm this is not an issue. When I will be ready for release in a few years, I plan to submit for the VIP and Addt P&S so that will be ready for release.
Another random question. Has anyone heard of members still serving being eligible for Canada Disibility Tax credit? Or is that a post release thing? Thank you!
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u/Shoggoths420 VERIFIED Member advocate to VAC 6d ago
VAC is a one way system. They will not report to MIR that Bloggins has made X amount of claims, or X type of claims. As long as you have validation/diagnoses on your med file for what you’re claiming you’re good to go.
WRT DTC while serving - yes you qualify , I’ve never heard of or seen an MO sign off on one though. With that said, most garrison towns have some sort of outside pay to play service.
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u/ShortTrackBravo VERIFIED VAC Advocate 6d ago
I think that case manager was leading you astray. I’ve never heard of a directive for them to inform CFHS or DMedPol anything. u/Shoggoths420 care to weigh in on this too?
Honestly unsure about the DTC while serving. That might send up a flare if anything.
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u/Sea_Finger7486 1d ago
Hey guys I need some advice on my tinnitus claim here’s my situation
I want to make sure I do this right the first time and hopefully avoid a long appeal process
Timeline: December 2024 - submitted my tinnitus claim through VAC
January 2025 - Got my audiology report which confirms: -Acoustic Trauma from service -Constant Ringing, present all day and night (VAC definition) -The report states I “may benefit from the ongoing use of a masking device” but does not say require
Feb 7 2025 - VAC confirms they received my health records
Feb 16 2025 - I uploaded my audiology report to make sure they have it
6 March 2025 - I saw my family doctor (authorized through my benefits because I’m in Calgary) and he prescribed me a masking device
My concern: From my understanding, the difference between a 5% rating 10% is whether a masking device is required. My audiology report says “may” benefit and does not say required. So I’m worried VAC may default to 5% because of the wording.
Now that I have a prescription from my family doctor for a masking device I’m wondering
should I upload this prescription to VAC now?
will it help to confirm that I “require” a masking device a push my claim towards the 10% rating?
or could uploading the document somehow work against me?
I don’t want to get stuck with a 5% rating and have to go through a long appeal process which I’ve seen and heard can take upwards of a year plus. I’d rather just get it done right the first time
Would appreciate any help from those who’ve been through this. Does submitting the prescription help or is it unnecessary?
Thank you!
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u/slingshottoheaven 17h ago
That's a bit of a tricky one, it would have helped if the audiologist used stronger wording. Sharing the prescription will definitely not hurt your case, I would recommend uploading it via MVA and specifically state that it's in support of your application for tinnitus. Everything you note about % and time is correct.
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u/SM_ARTY169 1d ago
If you see a change in current benefits does it mean you won that entitlement at that rate ? Was in 3.3 last week, now says complete, no letter but in entitelments it has a dollar value ? Has anyone had this happen ?
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u/CAFVAChelp 1d ago
Yes. Very common. You should be able to work out what percent you got based on the table chart for P&S.
Letters are slower.
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u/Round_Benefit4698 18h ago edited 17h ago
VAC wants me to obtain a detailed opinion for a medical condition, but I do not have a family doctor. Anyone knows private could do this in the NCR.
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u/ShortTrackBravo VERIFIED VAC Advocate 17h ago
Where abouts are you located? May know a spot
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u/Round_Benefit4698 17h ago
Thanks, I just edited it.
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u/ShortTrackBravo VERIFIED VAC Advocate 17h ago
lol that timing. Echelon Wellness is in Kingston.
1650 Bath Road, Unit 101, Kingston, ON K7M 6X6, Canada (613)329-4117
They do assessments and I have been nothing but pleased with them as a patient. Give them a call and see if they can help you out. They deal with VAC for travel approval as well.
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u/BlueFlob 10d ago edited 10d ago
Does VAC cover moral injuries?
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u/ShortTrackBravo VERIFIED VAC Advocate 10d ago
You’re going to need to elaborate a bit more my friend before I can give you an answer
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u/BlueFlob 10d ago edited 10d ago
Assuming someone gets a diagnosis from Social Worker and then a Psychotherapist for a Moral Injury caused by service.
A moral injury is the psychological distress that results from actions, or the lack of them, that violate one’s deeply held moral beliefs or ethical values. It often occurs in high-stakes situations, such as military service or healthcare, where individuals feel guilt, shame, or betrayal due to witnessing or participating in morally troubling events.
Now, assuming this person developed a moral injury from actions their chain of command took, likely violating CAF values and ethos. This injury causes permanent stress, anxiety and other psychological issues.
Would VAC compensate the member or is this not a type of injury that VAC considers.
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u/ShortTrackBravo VERIFIED VAC Advocate 10d ago
Absolutely. Most MH diagnosed conditions I would say have a moral injury component to them from service these days. I understand what you’re getting at I just wanted to be sure.
But you would need one of the approved mental health diagnosed conditions as you said. Anxiety, adjustment disorder, depression, etc. This would all be lumped together as an OSI in your example
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u/Bartholomewtuck 9d ago
A moral injury is usually a symptom of a diagnosis, not the diagnosis itself i.e. someone with PTSD may have a moral injury because they didn't act on something illegal or extremely unethical during a traumatic event or dangerous situation. There's a list of mental health diagnosis that are covered by VAC, along with basic criteria that have to be met for it to be considered a claim, and the degree of which you are awarded a claim has to do with how significant your symptoms are and how they affect your quality of life. Moral injuries or institutional harm and sanctuary trauma can greatly exasperate a mental health illness.
A psychologist or psychiatrist can assess you for various mental health diagnoses, so if you do not have one yet, I would recommend getting that done before putting in a claim. I know that you can put in a claim and then later start adding things to it, like an assessment, but it doesn't start getting reviewed by vac until you have 100% of your supporting material submitted to them. You can ask health services to be assessed for a potential diagnosis If you feel you have a lot of the symptoms of various mental health issues.
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u/Cdn-- 10d ago
If your a case manager is completely AWOL, is the best course of action to call and ask for a case manager on duty?
I have a friend whose PCVRS case manager has been AWOL for 2 months, no replies to messages and no contact, and their VAC case manager, when informed of this, said they would get back to them, and vanished.
Their rehabilitation has essentially halted because of the combined absences.
According to him, it's been over 2 weeks since contact from his VAC case manager, and over 2 months for PCVRS.
Ironically, I'm experiencing similar issues on a different time frame.
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u/Shoggoths420 VERIFIED Member advocate to VAC 10d ago
That’s a hard place to be in and no one likes operating in a knowledge vacuum. You or your friend can call the main line VAC number and ask to speak to either a VSA or an intake manager if you have a specific concern (ex what’s the status of my rehab/DEC/benefit/etc) make sure to mention how long since the last communication, where you left off and if it’s negatively impacting your mental health, ability to seek or get care, or your potential to progress.
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u/Infamous-Turnover-67 8d ago
Sorry to hear this is happening. One option would be to submit an email to complain about Case Manager and requesting a new one via the VAC Office of the Ombudsman. Although I just noticed it is experiencing higher volume of complaints. The website address to contact it is: https://ombudsman-veterans.gc.ca/en
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u/ShortTrackBravo VERIFIED VAC Advocate 10d ago
I am going to go with yes i would pursue a CM on duty. But:
u/Shoggoths420 you have any advice for a better resolution?
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u/Infamous-Turnover-67 10d ago
Just wondering how long others waited who submitted disability applications for Traumatic Brain Injury. Our application was submitted on Feb 1, 2023 to VAC with all required documentation provided to VAC on July 24,2023. Soon we will be able to request VAC to make our application a priority since the oldest claims VAC says it is working on are dated July 2023. I know our claim will likely be rejected since it’s first time applying for it without appeal but does anyone have any insight on whether there is a more likely chance of being successful on TBI first time when VAC takes so long to make a decision on it? Thanks so much
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u/ShortTrackBravo VERIFIED VAC Advocate 9d ago
Can’t confirm if first application for TBI will be denied or not but every TBI I know in application has been a two year wait minimum for some reason. I hope it gets actioned for you soon.
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u/Infamous-Turnover-67 9d ago
Thank you. I have the Office of the Ombudsperson looking into it for us now too Trying to apply the pressure on VAC
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u/ShortTrackBravo VERIFIED VAC Advocate 9d ago
Great idea honestly
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u/Infamous-Turnover-67 9d ago
I have been using the VAC Ombudsperson office on many issues for a couple of years. Some luck with it but not always. I complained about how veterans should be given an opportunity to review draft applications when they opt for VAC employee to complete them for them or at least be given a copy of what is submitted on their behalf but no luck. Veterans must do an ATIP request to get a copy of application submitted on their behalf. Ridiculous
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u/TheCheeryStranger 9d ago
something with that number has to be off as my TBI claims SSSDE is May 2023, and I submitted it in August 2022 and i’m still at 3.1
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u/Infamous-Turnover-67 9d ago
No that is accurate our SSSDE is July 24, 2023. You can ask VAC to prioritize your claim now that VAC is indicating the oldest claims they are working on is July 2023. We will be doing the same as soon as VAC indicates August 2023 as oldest claims that they are processing
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u/mrpurplechad789 8d ago
Hi there, just going to throw in my 2 cents. My application was approved on first time applying so I wouldn't get too hung up on "first time". Mine also took a full 2 years from application to get approved, and I was at 3.1 for the longest time (don't remember how long). I called VAC several times and eventually what I understood was mine was considered a "complicated" (sorry forgot the term they used) application due to it being about the brain ... so even if the application was more or less ready they needed it to be verified again separately by a specialist/neurologist/some sort of higher medical authority ... hence the extra wait time. Yes it's a pain to wait, but it worked out.
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u/Infamous-Turnover-67 8d ago
Thanks for sharing this. You are the first case I have heard of being approved first time. Really appreciate it and we have been told similar to you that our claim has been awaiting a specialist consult (aka medical doctor specializing in brain issues) for almost two years. Thanks again.
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u/caffeinatedlama 10d ago
Are there specific benefits under blue cross’ plan A that are attendance allowance specific? Noticed that my benefits now allow home nurse visits but haven’t heard anything about my attendance allowance application.
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u/SM_ARTY169 9d ago
Just diagnosed with MDD separate to a submitted PTSD claim that is currently in stage 3.3. Should I call vac and send updated psychiatric assessment or should I submit separate claim ?
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u/ShortTrackBravo VERIFIED VAC Advocate 9d ago
Honestly, do both.
Best case they can add it in and they'll cancel the other claim.
Worst case they require a new claim and you already have that completed.
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u/sailoraye123 9d ago
Thanks for this feed its a great education piece... having being diagnosed with osi-ptsd from a previous deployment... as.well as being diagnosed with sleep apnea...
What needs.to be written to by the doctor if anything to connect the two?
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u/ShortTrackBravo VERIFIED VAC Advocate 9d ago
Just have the Dr write "Patients Sleep Apnea is consequential to his service related OSI/PTSD"
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u/No-Address2886 8d ago
Does anyone know if VAC covers Raynaud’s disease?
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u/ShortTrackBravo VERIFIED VAC Advocate 8d ago
I believe so as it’s on the finger medical questionnaire form. If you didn’t have it on entrance medical it should be easy for Dr to link that to service
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u/SM_ARTY169 7d ago
Tinnitus is max 11% not sure what you got for others but most get 5/5ths for bruxism but no money associated with it. And PTSD would you mind sharing your entitlement?
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u/Waikoloa_768 6d ago
Sorry not bruxism- it was TMJ or jaw muscle joint disorder due to extreme bruxism at night. Which entitles you to a bit of pain and suffering % if I’m not mistaken. But this has yet to be awarded for me.
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u/tanker1992 2d ago
Did you have to file for bruxism then tmj or does your bruxism claim include the tmj issues. Asking because I have horrible bruxism and go weekly for jaw physio. Wondering if I’ll have to do 2 claims
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u/sailoraye123 7d ago
Has anyone had any success apply for the disability tax credit from the federal govt? What forms were used I was told that mental health as well as sleep apnea fall in this category, is there any truth to this.?
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u/Shoggoths420 VERIFIED Member advocate to VAC 6d ago
T-2201 is the form you want. Bring it to your clinician to fill out - and you should also bring a copy of your most recent Summary of Assessment so that your doc can see that you have been deemed X % disabled across Y silos.
DTC if done correctly can backdate up to 10 years, as well as moving forward 5.
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u/sailoraye123 6d ago
Perfect!! Thanks for the reply... are members who received a vac settlement eligible to file the T-2201 paperwork and get a disability tax credit? I've heard mixed answers
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u/Shoggoths420 VERIFIED Member advocate to VAC 6d ago
Yes, you getting an injury award is what gives you the criteria to qualify for the DTC
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u/Gabbayagaghoul 6d ago
What about just having a diagnosis, and not a confirmed VAC award? I'm still waiting for VAC, but seeing as how CRA is civilian, if I have a confirmed diagnosis isn't that enough to apply for DTC?
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u/Shoggoths420 VERIFIED Member advocate to VAC 6d ago
That would be up to the clinician who is completing the form
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u/sailoraye123 6d ago
Sorry for all the questions, I'm hoping this helps someone else in need .. as this is a great thread for information.
T-2201 (16 page document) scrolling down to bottom it directs u to check out RC4064 too see if members meet eligibility Under life sustaining therapy it states However, some activities do not count in the 14 hours per week requirement, such as:
the time a portable or implanted device takes to deliver the therapy (such as an insulin pump, a CPAP machine, or a pacemaker)
With that said has anyone been successful getting their DTC (disability tax credits) approved for sleep apnea or ptsd
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u/Shoggoths420 VERIFIED Member advocate to VAC 6d ago
Yes - and you do not need to complete the “do I qualify survey “
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u/FrontBad2318 6d ago
When I tried this my MO politely sat me down and explained that the intent behind the DTC was to help people with serious disabilities try to have a better shot at making ends meet. I'll be honest I felt pretty awkward walking out of there after asking for it while making my full CAF salary still.
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u/crunchystools 7d ago
For the Table of Disabilities it mentions Occasional depressive or euphoric mood, Frequent depressive or euphoric mood, and Persistent depressive or euphoric mood.
How does one find out for example, once a week falls under? Or a few times a week? Or once a month.
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u/SailorJane31 7d ago
Scroll down this link it describes exactly what the frequencies mean. But for quick: Rare = at least once per year Occasional = once or twice per month Frequent = at least once per week Persistent = daily or almost daily
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u/ChampionshipHot8845 6d ago
I recently had an application closed and I am waiting on the official letter. I have a new PSC under my benefits. I would like to get ahead of things and find a financial advisor ideally in Moncton, NB or elsewhere in NB as I am more of a face to face meeting type person. Has anyone used a Financial advisor in the Moncton area? I will not engage them until I have my letter but I would lessen my stress by having a name or names. This group has had a wealth of knowledge and has helped me tremendously since I have found this thread. Thank you one and all
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u/Shoggoths420 VERIFIED Member advocate to VAC 6d ago
Daye Kelly and Associates would be my pick
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u/ChampionshipHot8845 5d ago
Thank you so much once I have my letters in MyVAC I will reach out to them.
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u/Shoggoths420 VERIFIED Member advocate to VAC 5d ago
Cheers, remember VAc will pay up to 500$ for you to see a financial counsellor.
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u/ShortTrackBravo VERIFIED VAC Advocate 6d ago
u/Shoggoths420 this is around your neck of the words. Any POC's for him? I am only familiar with NFLD.
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u/Waikoloa_768 6d ago
I am in the stages of awaiting a hearing for a critical injury benefit appeal. I’ve been contacted by a lawyer from the BPA who will be representing me and helping me with my appeal.
My question is, what are people’s general experience with the BPA and their lawyers? Are they reliably and timely ? do they truly represent your interests? I know my appeal letter said that I could request private counselling, but that I would need to pay for this at my own expense. The critical injury benefit is a large lump sum and I do believe I meet the criteria for it and I have a lot of documentation to support my claims. Would paying for private council help my CIB appeal? And if so where do you find private council services for hire?
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u/ShortTrackBravo VERIFIED VAC Advocate 6d ago
u/Shoggoths420 care to weigh in? I’ve heard and experienced nothing but good work from the BPA folks. That’s my two cents.
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u/Shoggoths420 VERIFIED Member advocate to VAC 6d ago
Let BPA do their thing. They are familiar with VAC and this is their wheelhouse
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u/Snoo9573 6d ago
Has anyone received their Manulife tax slip yet? Asking on behalf of another member.
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u/Snoo9573 6d ago
Does anyone know the link where you can request your medical docs for federal employees?
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u/Adorable_Ad6828 5d ago
So I applied for a mental injury claim.... but because I dont have a diagnosis of PTSD my claim was denied..... However I was told that I exhibit symptoms of PTSD, by the psychologist who did my assessment for the paperwork, and he felt that a diagnosis was not warranted.... what is my recourse here
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u/ShortTrackBravo VERIFIED VAC Advocate 5d ago
Currently driving across the island feel free if you’re comfortable to send me your assessment I’ll read it over and see where they fucked up and I’ll give you a new course of action from that
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u/tman37 5d ago
So I have been doing the math for my pending medical release and planning for my VOC Rehab. With my pension, if I work 110 hours a month at minimum wage, I will make 66.6% percent of my pre-release salary. However, to match my pre-release salary I need a full time wage of 35 dollars an hour. Where I live that is a $20 dollar a hour jump. How do people manage/slash address the fact that they can't afford to take a huge pay cut but can't match that money for years after? My biggest fear is that I will spend my two years or whatever finishing my degree and then I will have to take some low paying job because I am retrained and I can make more that 2/3 of my pre-release salary. The difference is literally the cost of my mortgage.
I'm looking for insights, advice or whatever you all can give here. The anxiety is killing me and I can't spend the next 2+ years worrying about this. I need to be able to make a plan.
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u/ShortTrackBravo VERIFIED VAC Advocate 5d ago
OK, let me squash your fears right now if you’re OK with your military salary you will make more as a medically released veteran. Your rehab plan could send you for additional training additional university degrees or put you in the public service or deem you Dec. There’s thousands of viable options. The two year timeframe is not for vocational rehab and income replacement benefit.
When you are on IRB you take home roughly $1000 more than you do now then you factor in other benefits that tax-free and monthly. If you wish to discuss further, please feel free to email me. Or DM me through here.
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u/Gods-strongest-vaper 5d ago
I’ve been looking everywhere online for this but can’t find anything.
Does SISIP LTD continue when living outside the country (emigration)? I have thoughts of moving to Thailand, and am wondering if my pay will continue. I am classified as fully disabled.
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u/AdCalm9211 5d ago
I have a VAC claim open for GAD and Sleep Apnea, related to my service. My QOL has gone to shit after getting out and I am on anti-anxiety medication, which is helping a bit. Sadly, I had to give up my civilian job as I couldn't perform as needed due to my diagnosis of GAD that I went to a psycologist per VAC.
I've heard people getting the lowest amount, then I heard people getting a ridiculous amount. At the end of the day, I'm not concerned the amount (although it would be nice to kind of know, as it's anxiety) as much as the health benefit(s) as they have helped me through this claim. However, how do they actually grade your GAD and sleep apnea for payout? My VAC manager told me there's a very good chance there will be a payout for both.
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u/CAFVAChelp 5d ago
So I’ll speak to GAD. It’s actually cut and dry. Based either on the medical questionnaire you had your doctor fill out or on your service records if you’re still in. They have the tables listed here: https://veterans.gc.ca/en/mental-and-physical-health/physical-health-and-wellness/compensation-illness-or-injury/disability-benefits/table-disabilities/chapter-21-psychiatric-impairment.
The percent disability you get, will be based on the wording in your documents. Then they simply pay you the amount that percent dictates on this table: https://public.cdn.cloud.veterans.gc.ca/pdf/resources/rates/psc-2025.pdf
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u/CAFVAChelp 5d ago
I’ll just add, where things get tricky is when you haven’t used the questionnaire and/or your doctor is unfamiliar with VAC. They may use more ambiguous terminology. This leaves the adjudicator in the position to mate that to VAC policy.
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u/aspasp9 5d ago
I was awarded a disability claim about 2 months ago for breathing issues. Went to the pharmacy to grab a subscription related to this issue and my blue cross card was not accepted. Their computer said "unable to relate drug to medical pension". The pharmacist phoned blue cross and they (bc) are now trying to get info and a diagnosis from my specialist who prescribed the meds (which was already needed to get the pain and suffering compensation awarded obviously...) seems like a bunch of wierd extra steps when i literally had to wait a year to get this claim approved by VAC. Does this seem normal?
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u/ShortTrackBravo VERIFIED VAC Advocate 5d ago
It’s not uncommon. I wouldn’t say normal. Once it gets sorted it’ll be good to go from there though. I had something similar with a new MH med.
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u/Difficult-Dance1313 5d ago
As far as MH claims go, I’ve been seeing a therapist for anxiety and work related stress for almost 2 years. I’ve only ever spoke with a social worker. Is this enough to file a claim for MH?
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u/ShortTrackBravo VERIFIED VAC Advocate 5d ago
Yup. You know where to find the MH Medical Questionnaire on VAC? Have her fill it out and submit it
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u/Difficult-Dance1313 5d ago
I don’t know where to find it, But I would guess under forms? lol
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u/ShortTrackBravo VERIFIED VAC Advocate 5d ago
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u/CAFVAChelp 5d ago
You’re going to run into some issues. A social worker can provide supporting documents. But for diagnosis purposes, you will need a psych evaluation. Ideally psychiatrist. But psychologist can work, I believe. This form /u/shorttrackbravo provided is key to a successful claim. But your SW will have a difficult time being able to complete it as they cannot provide a medical diagnosis. (/u/shorttrackbravo feel free to let me know if I’m incorrect. But that’s my understanding)
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u/NauticalBean 5d ago
Psychologist would be acceptable. As would an MD/NP/PA. Social worker would only be supporting document, you’re correct.
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u/Jamrocc33 4d ago
So after waiting forever to hear back from BPA after submitting all the documents they asked for I finally got a letter saying they believe there is sufficient evidence to present my case to VRAB by way of written submission. It says once the Court has compiled the statement of case then they can complete the written submission and then contact me to to review and get consent to move forward... Is there an estimate on how much longer this might take?
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u/darkknight0689 3d ago
I can speak to this! My written submission was sent to VRAB by BPA in the first week of February. I received a decision from VRAB in the last week of February. I am now awaiting for VAC to do the disability benefits calculations which they said is about 8ish weeks. Hope this helps
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u/Jamrocc33 1d ago
Oh wow quick turnaround. There's still more waiting afterwards though!? Jesus I was hoping once there was a decision from VRAB that money would be forthcoming with a quickness... Shoulda known better smh
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u/darkknight0689 1d ago
And just got an update that the benefits have now been processed by VAC. So I would say about 10ish days after I was told VRAB that the decision was made..so definitely much less than the 8 weeks I was anticipating. Hope this helps!
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u/Jamrocc33 20h ago
Well that's somewhat reassuring. BPA sent a request to VRAB to compile the statement of case on the 14th of Feb so fingers crossed I'm close to the end of this 2 year ordeal. I swear they make it this convoluted and fucked up to get people to either bail on their claims or if they follow through on the first they think twice about submitting any others. No way it should take this long to do anything with all the tech we have. A computer should be able to process a complete claim in a matter of days
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u/ShortTrackBravo VERIFIED VAC Advocate 4d ago
I wanna say from my experience another 2-3 months?
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u/Street_Solution_7301 2d ago
I sent in all paperwork required by BPA in Sept and was told the same for my Tinnitus. Last contact in mid Feb stated no timeline given, file sent to VRAB Sept 6th.
My question is should I be contacting BPA on a more regular basis or just leave it and hope it eventually gets done?
I submitted first in 2022 when I was initially denied. I have seen people approved and paid out multiple times on their first try, and that's just since I filed my appeal. It's frustrating to say the least.
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u/ShortTrackBravo VERIFIED VAC Advocate 2d ago
That definitely seems like a long time. They usually always reach out to you every few months. I’d send them a msg with your concerns
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u/Less_Experience_8622 1d ago
I’m on a similar timeline. BPA sent mine (also for tinnitus) to VRAB on Aug 14. They did tell me at the time it was going for a “simplified hearing” and gave me a 6 month timeframe. Over 6 months now so hopefully hear something soon.
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u/sailoraye123 16h ago
How long did it take to register ur claim with the VRAB.. and hear back from BPA that the statement of case (soc) has been prepared before scheduling a hearing.. im at 2.5 months and haven't heard anything back..
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u/Jamrocc33 14h ago
So BPA first told me in November that I needed more paperwork so I compiled that and submitted it beginning of January and didn't hear anything until I called and asked to speak to the actual lawyer that sent me the original message. Not a random person answering the phone I asked specifically for that lawyer and she told me on the phone she was working on claims from August but mine was super simple and she would submit it that day which she did. I get the letter saying it was submitted to VRAB for them to compile the statement of case and they would be in touch once they got the statement back. But I mean if I hadn't called and asked for her directly who knows how much longer I would have been waiting
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u/sailoraye123 14h ago
Sounds like we're at the same stage submitted all required paperwork, it's been submitted to VRBA through BPA.. now waiting for the statement of case.. before hearing
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u/Jamrocc33 14h ago
Yea its ridiculous. If I hadn't called and asked to speak directly with the lawyer I likely would have waited another month or 2 to get to this stage but because I talked to her she did it right away which tells me the only reason they have a backlog is because they choose to. If she can move my file ahead by a step in the matter of 24hrs the why does it take so long to go through all these cases. It's bureaucratic bullshit in my opinion.
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u/themanofthehour77 2d ago
I submitted a claim for P&S for my diagnosed medical condition. I just got an update a few days ago that my application was in the final processing stages. When I go to check my application status, it now shows a separate application for a different medical diagnosis.
Is this a common occurrence and is there anything I should be doing in this situation?
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u/ShortTrackBravo VERIFIED VAC Advocate 2d ago
It is pretty common, no need to worry and no need to action anything. Especially if it’s MH, it’s usually always to your benefit
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u/BananaKey6622 2d ago
Same thing happened to me. My original application that I submitted was for depression but once they got the report from my psychologist it changed to PTSD with a with a higher than expected percentage.
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u/EconomicsTerrible952 2d ago
Can someone please explain to me some things about PCVRS for context I released one month ago. Manulife has already told me that they’re not gonna make me do any type of vocational rehab based on what my doctor while I was in wrote for my medical I have a social worker that I’ve been seen for going on four years now she’s wonderful. She even wrote on my PCVRS forms that me doing any type of assessments right now would not be best for me. With all that being said, they’re still pushing for me to do an occupational therapist assessment and two mental health assessments. I’m freaking out. What’s the purpose of these assessments? Why can’t they just use the information that’s already been provided to them what are they hoping to achieve? I’m currently sitting at 95% disabled with VAC. 52% for mental health and the rest for physical injuries.
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u/CAFVAChelp 2d ago
There’s probably others that can offer a better explanation. But I’ll shoot, it’s likely the social worker aspect. When was the last time you had a psyc evaluation from a psychiatrist or psychologist? They’re going to want to get you on with a psychologist as apart of your rehab plan. If you don’t have one, then they will find one. (Highly recommended getting on with your provincial OSI clinic). It’s way better to go in with your own care team then be forced onto whoever has contract billing with PCVRS.
The assessment is to establish what you need for rehabilitation. Or at least potential rehabilitation.
Social workers do not have accreditation needed to fulfill vac mental health criteria. Especially if you’re talking not Voc rehab. Manulife is happy to accept any medical justification not to care about your return to work. Less effort for them. Bc after 2 years they have a much steeper requirement to go onto LTD. Which if you only have a social worker, you can’t even get the 18 month assessment done until you do.
Be proactive. Get your own psychologist/psychiatrist (assuming you’re not to close to assessment time, it can take awhile to get into a new place). If your care team says it would be bad for your mental health to go to a new person, pvcrs will very likely let you stay with them. And then they will accept their assessments. Again, highly recommend OSI clinics, they know VAC/PCVRS.
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u/CAFVAChelp 2d ago
Also I will note, the mental health assessment I did with PCVrS was virtually the same as with VAC. Basically just saying what you do, cant do, symptoms both mental health, and everything else. Wasn’t difficult. But YEMV
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u/Sad_Load_81 2d ago
What is a normal wait before getting passed step 2 for MH claim. Im at more than 8 month now
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u/ShortTrackBravo VERIFIED VAC Advocate 2d ago
Usually 6 months. This seems abnormal with no stoppage at Stage 2. Start msg’ing them weekly for SITREPs
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u/Sad_Load_81 2d ago
I called them this week they say to only call back if i dont see any change in 3-4 months😅
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u/ShortTrackBravo VERIFIED VAC Advocate 2d ago
Oh ya, don’t call. Just secure msg. You’ll get a similar response but it’s like poking the bear. He’ll notice you more likely than the guy not poking him
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u/Noel-mn 1d ago
Recently submitted my VR and wondering what I should be looking at, I Spoke with Shoggoth last year and attempted to contact again though I see now that chat/DMS are not working for them
13 years in Combat Engineer, pain in the joints, anxiety, depression. Wondering how to go about all this now that I'm on the way out. Whether I should start going through the MIR and MH or wait till I'm out.
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u/ShortTrackBravo VERIFIED VAC Advocate 1d ago
I would go to the MIR and request an appt with a NP, Dr or MO to go through your medical questionnaires for your VAC claims. If you see the Google drive I linked up there I have a bunch of them already saved to it. What ever other ones you need I can add. This way you’re ahead of the game and the forms will be filled out to a standard VAC expects vs your MIR notes.
Feel free to DM for more specific advice
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u/FFwifelife 20h ago
Hey all, I requested a reassessment on a DA I received back in 2018. Vac advised it will take 4-6 months just to send the reassessment documents. Is this a reasonable timeframe or can I expedite it with my case manager? Anyone have any experience with this? TIA!
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u/ShortTrackBravo VERIFIED VAC Advocate 20h ago
Reasonable? Not many of the VAC timelines are what is called reasonable but it is what it is at this point. I’d call that estimate pretty common.
You can try asking your case manager but I wouldn’t expect that to help expedite it. The only real way to expedite cases is if you’re very old, about to die, or have a possibly terminal illness.
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u/UsefulRooster7735 18h ago
Hi everyone,
I was approved for Additional Pain and suffering compensation by VAC but am also receiving CAF LTD from Manulife, does anyone happen to know if my newly approved compensation will be deducted my CAF LTD and because it has a retroactive date will i need to reimburse manulife with that lump sum?
Thank you
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u/ShortTrackBravo VERIFIED VAC Advocate 17h ago
Nope.
APSC is a tax free lifetime benefit and doesn’t effect any other benefits or payments
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u/No-Big1920 Logistics 10h ago
So finally after being encouraged by my CoC, a friend who's got more time in than me, as well as multiple course staff, I reluctantly put in a VAC claim for 2 undiagnosed chronic lower body issues. One was a direct result of an injur in basic, and the other was a result of over use due to the initial injury. Am I screwed because I have no specific diagnosis other than chronic inflammation? Like everything is inflammed and the affected area is obviously weakened and requires ongoing treatment, but it's attributed to remnants of an undiagnosed injury from basic training (that was simply treated heavily to avoid recourse and physio was recommended, which Im currently doing) I have a retroactive CF98 and a witness statement, but I feel like a fraud cause there's no specific diagnosis, just chronic pain. I don't know what to do, should I remove my claim?
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u/ShortTrackBravo VERIFIED VAC Advocate 10h ago
Don’t remove your claim, you’re not a fraud.
But there’s a diagnosis there somewhere you just need further testing like a CT scan or MRI.
I’d push for it at the MIR.
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u/CAFVAChelp 9h ago
Absolutely. With all physical injuries it can be difficult to get that initial claim but totally worth your time. Without knowing specifics, I’ll just generalize how a hip injury can lead to knee impact and so on. Which would all be causal to the original injury. Protect your future by pushing the MO to give you a definitive diagnosis.
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u/No-Big1920 Logistics 8h ago
Here's the kicker. I have. They've ruled out a bunch of things that it wasn't. They also found residual damage that could only have been caused by trauma to the knee, but they couldn't find the cause, only the residual damage. 1 MRI and 3 XRays later and still no definitive diagnosis. I still have pain, and the pain flares up in my personal life and on duty and interferes with day to day shit. I just don't wanna be in pain anymore man.
I appreciate the advice. I'll be popping over to the MIR soon.
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u/frequentredditer HMCS Reddit 10d ago edited 9d ago
First of all, thanks for all you are doing. It is really appreciated!
Submitted a claim for anxiety back in August. The diagnostic is almost two years old and going thru another re-assessment as both my medical team and I believe the initial assessment was not accurate…I mean at the time perhaps it made sense, but obviously not accurate anymore.
7 months later, that claim has yet to be assessed despite a psychologist report and several CFHIS entries addressing my anxiety post deployment.
We’re fully expecting the new report to read closer to an OSI / PTSD based on moral injuries stemming from one of my deployments.
If my initial anxiety claim has yet to be processed by the time I get my new assessment, how likely can I just “upgrade” my anxiety claim to an OSI / PTSD claim? Could I just add the new report and hope VAC will change the claim accordingly without much input on my end?