Secondary Conditions and How to Add Them to Your Claim

Many veterans are aware that they can receive disability compensation for conditions directly connected to their military service.

What is less commonly understood is that conditions caused by a service-connected disability may also qualify for compensation.

These are known as secondary conditions.

What Is a Secondary Condition?

A secondary condition is a medical issue that develops as a result of an already service-connected condition.

In other words:

• The original condition is service-connected

• A new condition develops because of it

Both conditions may be eligible for VA disability compensation.

Common Examples

Secondary conditions can take many forms depending on the original disability.

Some common examples include:

• Knee injuries leading to hip or back problems
• Chronic pain leading to depression or anxiety
• Physical limitations contributing to weight gain and related conditions
• Medication side effects causing additional health issues

Each situation is unique, but the key factor is showing a connection between the primary condition and the secondary condition.

Why This Matters

Secondary conditions can be assigned their own disability rating.

This means:

• Your overall combined rating may increase

• Your monthly compensation may increase

• Additional conditions are formally recognized by the VA

Many veterans do not realize they may qualify for these additional ratings.

How to Add a Secondary Condition to Your Claim

To add a secondary condition, veterans typically need to show:

1. A current diagnosis
There must be a documented medical condition.

2. An existing service-connected disability
The primary condition must already be recognized by the VA.

3. A connection between the two
Medical evidence or a professional opinion may be needed to show that the secondary condition was caused or worsened by the primary condition.

Important Considerations

The VA evaluates each claim based on the evidence provided.

In many cases, a medical opinion can play an important role in establishing the connection between conditions.

Because each claim is different, outcomes may vary depending on the documentation and circumstances involved.

Key Takeaway

If you have a service-connected condition and develop additional health issues as a result, those conditions may also qualify for compensation.

Understanding how secondary conditions work can help ensure all relevant conditions are considered in your claim.

— EARNED.vet