What factors does the VA consider when determining the level of a veteran’s disability rating?

The determination of a veteran's disability rating by the VA is primarily based on objective and substantive factors related to the veteran's health and service. Medical examinations provide critical insights into the severity of a veteran's conditions, while treatment records give an account of the ongoing medical support received. Additionally, a veteran's service history is essential because it outlines the context of their injuries or illnesses, which may include incidents that occurred during military service.

These factors collectively help the VA assess how significantly a disability affects a veteran's overall functionality and quality of life, leading to an appropriate rating. This thorough review ensures that the rating reflects the true impact of the disability on the veteran’s daily activities and work capabilities.

Other factors such as a veteran’s age and gender, while they may play a role in overall health assessments, do not directly influence the comprehension of how a specific disability impacts the veteran. Similarly, current employment status and public opinions do not bear on the assessment of the medical condition or its origins in military service, thus they are not key to the computation of a rating.