zilongwang/ReadingBank huggingface dataset:
gives B1 M1A1 5) A girl throws a stone which breaks a window 2 seconds later. The speed of projection is 20 ms-1 and the angle of projection is 60. Assuming that the stone can be modelled as a particle moving with constant acceleration, find the horizontal and vertical components of the velocity of the stone just before impact [4] Horizontally Vertically Using gives B1 B1 M1A1 Amber 6) Figure 1 Figure 1 shows the speed-time graph of a cyclist moving on a straight road over a 7 s period. The sections of the graph from t = 0 to t = 3, and from t = 3 to t = 7, are straight lines. The section from t = 3 to t = 7 is parallel to the t-axis. State what can be deduced about the motion of the cyclist from the fact that: a) the graph from t = 0 to t = 3 is a straight line, [1] b) the graph from t = 3 to t = 7 is parallel to the t-axis. [1] c) Find the distance travelled by the cyclist during this 7 s period. [4] a) Constant acceleration B1 b) Constant speed/velocity B1 c) Distance = ½ (2 + 5) x 3, + (4 x 5) = 30.5 m M1 A1 B1 A1 7) A car is moving along a straight horizontal road. At time t = 0, the car passes a point A with speed 25 m s–1. The car moves with constant speed 25 m s–1 until t = 10 s. The car then decelerates uniformly for 8 s. At time t = 18 s, the speed of the car is V m s–1 and this speed is maintained until the car reaches the point B at time t = 30 s. a) Sketch a speed–time graph to show the motion of the car from A to B [3] Given that AB = 526 m, find b) the value of V, [5] c) the deceleration of the car between t = 10 s and t = 18 s. [3]
a) 2 horizontal lines B1 Joined by straight line sloping down B1 25, 10, 18, 30 oe B1 b) Solving to: V = 11 M1A1A1 DM1 A1 c) “v = u + at” so 11 = 25 – 8a ft their V a = 1.75 (ms-2) M1 A1ft A1 8) A firework rocket starts from rest at ground level and moves vertically. In the first 6s of its motion, the rocket rises 29m. The rocket is modelled as a particle moving with constant acceleration ams–2. Find a) the value of a, [2] b) the speed of the rocket 6s after it has left the ground [2] After 6s, the rocket burns out. The motion of the rocket is now modelled as that of a particlemoving freely under gravity c) Find the height of the rocket above the ground 9s after it has left the ground [4] 9) A racing car moves along a straight horizontal road with constant acceleration. It passes the point O with speed 12 m/s. It passes the point A 5s later with speed 58 m/s a) Find the acceleration of thecar [2] b) Find the distance OA [3] The point B is the midpoint of AO c) Find the speed of the car when it passes point B [3] 10) A firework rocket starts from rest at ground level and moves vertically. In the first 3 s of its motion, the rocket rises 27 m. The rocket is modelled as a particle moving with constant acceleration a m s–2. Find a) the value of a, [2] b) the speed of the rocket 3 s after it has left the ground. [2]
Regular Monthly Meeting - 5/1/2014 Utilities: PECO, PPL Electric Utilities, Duquesne Light Company, First Energy, UGI Suppliers/Service Providers: Intelometry, Constellation, UGI Energy Services, First Energy Solutions, EC Infosystems, AEP Energy, Energy Services Group, Systrends, Liberty Power, PPLSolutions, Suez Energy, ista North America, NRG, Direct Energy, Shipley Energy, Washington Gas Energy Services Other: Jeff McCracken (PUC Staff) Agenda: Roll Call Approve April meeting minutes sent to list server on 4/3/2014 Welcome Citizens & Wellsboro utilities to the EDEWG EDI Change Control # 114_Update – 867HU/867HI: Support for REFPR (LDC Rate Sub-class). Pending implementation date from PPLEU. # 119 – 814E: Modify REFSPL from required to optional. State REF7G code ‘ANV’ not used for PA Poll EDCs on use of REFKY (net meter indicator) in 814E and 814C Mid-Cycle/Accelerated Switching – status update Web Portal Working Group – status update Seamless Move / Instant Connect – status update Account Number Look Up – status update New Business Next Meeting Meeting Notes: Introductions & Roll Call Brandon Siegel, Intelometry (Secretary / Change Control Manager) commenced roll call. Matt Sigg, Constellation, (Co-Chair Supplier) facilitated the meeting. Other EDEWG leadership present: Sue Scheetz (PPLEU) and Jeff McCracken & Lee Yalcin (PA PUC Staff) Approve Meeting Minutes The April meeting minutes were approved without revision. Citizens Electric and Wellsboro Electric – Welcome to EDEWG Citizens and Wellsboro Electric utilities will be opening for competition and implementing EDI estimated by 2Q/3Q 2015. The EDEWG leadership has been assisting the utilities and their vendors in the EDEWG process, EDI implementation guidelines and implementation advice. Both utilities and their appropriate business/technical representatives have been added to the EDEWG list server and will begin participating in the EDEWG.
WB7 A uniform plank AB has mass 40 kg and length 4 m. It is supported in a horizontal position by two smooth pivots, one at the end A, the other at the point C of the plank where AC = 3 m, as shown in the diagram above. A man of mass 80 kg stands on the plank which remains in equilibrium. The magnitudes of the reactions at the two pivots are each equal to R newtons. By modelling the plank as a rod and the man as a particle, find a) the value of R, b) the distance of the man from A.
WB10 Two interlocking gears are in equilibrium. The gear on the right has a radius of 10 cm and has a loop 8 cm from the centre. The loop is to the right of, and level with the centre of the gear. A 10 kg mass hangs from the loop. The other gear has a radius of 5 cm and a loop 2 cm from the centre. The loop is to the left of, and level with the centre of the gear. A mass M kg hangs from the left loop. Find the value of M.
WB7 Sledge on a slope pulled at an angle The sledge is pulled such that the angle of the rope is above horizontal and the slope is above horizontal. The sledge moves in the direction of the slope. The sledge still has weight , the Pull force remains at N and the horizontal resistance remains at . What can be worked out? challenge Suppose the child and sledge weigh about 250 N, and the Resistance force is 40 N What is the minimum Pull force needed to make the sledge + child move in each of these situations.
limited to 32,000 characters. NOTIFICATION LETTER TEXT system-generated text based on user input in the DISABILITY DECISION INPUT screen and the Evaluation Builder Note: Generated text cannot be edited. appears in the ADL document as the first bulleted item in the Explanation field NOTIFICATION LETTER USER TEXT system-generated text based on user input in the DISABILITY DECISION INPUT screen and the Evaluation Builder any glossary text used when expanding the rating narrative in the REASONS FOR DECISION field, and free text added by the rating activity Notes: All text in this field can be edited. Text field has a 4,000 character limit. system-generated and glossary text appears as separate bulleted items in the ADL document in the Explanation field, and user-input free text appears as a single bulleted item in the Explanation field of the ADL document. References: For additional information on the use of free text in ADL processing, see M21-1, Part III, Subpart IV, 6.F.3.b, and the use of glossary text in ADL processing, see M21-1, Part III, Subpart IV, 6.F.4.b. 3. Standards for Rating Activity in ADL
To add emphasis that users must use the SSA-GSO site as the primary means for requesting SSA records. III.iii.3.A.7.a To add a reminder that users should only use the alternative records request method if the SSA-GSO website is not available. III.iii.3.A.7.b. To delete Topic 9, which was previously reserved to preserve topic numbering. -- Rescissions None Authority By Direction of the Under Secretary for Benefits Signature Thomas J. Murphy, Director Compensation Service Distribution LOCAL REPRODUCTION AUTHORIZED
2. Policies Regarding School Attendance Introduction This topic contains information about VA’s policies regarding school attendance, for the purpose of paying compensation, pension, or DIC, including VA standards for courses of instruction criteria for paying benefits based on school attendance advisory opinions on the validity of a student’s school attendance accreditation requirement for domestic schools determining the accreditation of a local school determining the accreditation of a school in another SOO accreditation requirement for foreign schools foreign countries with no accrediting authority definition: wholly supported at the expense of the Federal government service academies, and service academy preparatory schools. Change Date January 28, 2016 a. VA Standards for Courses of Instruction To meet VA standards, a course of instruction must require attendance of not less than the equivalent of three regular class sessions, daytime or evening, per week, and lead to the achievement of a training or educational objective (such as a degree, diploma, or certificate) in a period of time commonly accepted by standard institutions as adequate for that purpose. Important: According to , one “regular class session” must consist of at least one 50-minute period of academic instruction two 50-minute periods of laboratory instruction, or three 50-minute periods of workshop training. Example: A course of instruction meets the attendance requirement whether it consists of one hour of academic instruction three times a week, or three hours of academic instruction once a week. Notes: Authority to approve an award based on school attendance includes authority for approving the corresponding course of instruction. Courses of instruction taught under home school programs for grades kindergarten through 12 meet VA standards as long as the home school is an approved educational institution.
Veterans Service Center Manager (VSCM) or Pension Management Center Manager (PMCM) establishes explicit regional office (RO) delivery procedures for all categories of mail, and ensures that procedures appear in the RO’s Mail Routing Guide. Reference: For more information on official VA mail procedures, see , and . Administrative Support Services Division establishes local procedures for movement of all mail, including delivery of incoming mail, and pickup of outgoing mail. Reference: For more information on mailroom responsibilities, see M21-1, Part III, Subpart i, 1.2.c.
Mailroom must maintain a log of tracking numbers for future reference. A DCS is not required for mail sent under the CM program. 3. Use of CM Vendor Fax Lines Introduction This topic provides an overview of the use of vendor fax lines in the CM process, including use of CM vendor fax lines, and fax confirmation. Change Date July 14, 2015 a. Use of CM Vendor Fax Lines Dedicated facsimile (fax) lines are available for transmitting documents directly to the scanning vendors. The fax numbers listed below for both CACI and SMS can be used by PCT personnel VSOs VHA personnel, and claimants. CACI: Eastern and Southern Areas Toll Free – (844) 531-7818 Direct inward dial (DID) – (248) 524-4260 (utilized for foreign claimants) SMS: Central and Western Areas Toll Free – (844) 822-5246 (844VACLAIM) DID – (608) 373-6690 (utilized for foreign claimants) Important: Once a claim is faxed, do not mail the paper as this will create duplicates in the portals and claims folder. Always utilize a fax coversheet. Use a locally devised coversheets or those provided by the Veterans Claim Intake Program (VCIP) listed below.
c. Fiduciary Hub Jurisdiction List Refer to the following table to determine which Fiduciary Hub jurisdiction the mail falls under and the corresponding address to e-mail documents. Fiduciary Hub Jurisdiction Salt Lake City Fiduciary Hub PO Box 58086 Salt Lake City, UT 84158 1-888-407-0144, #6 VA e-mail: Alaska Arizona California Colorado Hawaii Idaho Montana Nevada New Mexico Oregon Utah Washington Wyoming Lincoln Fiduciary Hub PO Box 5444 Lincoln, NE 68505-5444 1-888-407-0144, #3 VA e-mail: Central and South America Kansas Mexico Nebraska North Dakota Oklahoma South Dakota Texas Milwaukee Fiduciary Hub PO Box 14975 Milwaukee, WI 53214-0975 1-888-407-0144, #5 VA e-mail: Arkansas Illinois Iowa Louisiana Minnesota Missouri Wisconsin Columbia Fiduciary Hub PO Box 9367 Columbia, SC 29209-9998 1-888-407-0144, #1 VA e-mail: Florida Georgia North Carolina South Carolina Louisville Fiduciary Hub PO Box 3487 Louisville, KY 40201 1-888-407-0144, #4 VA e-mail: Alabama Kentucky Mississippi Puerto Rico Tennessee
Department of Veterans Affairs M21-1, Part III, Subpart ii Veterans Benefits Administration June 25, 2015 Washington, DC 20420 Transmittal Sheet Changes Included in This Revision The table below describes the changes included in this revision of Veterans Benefits Manual M21-1, Part III, “General Claims Process,” Subpart ii, “Initial Screening and Determining Veterans Status.” Notes: The term “regional office” (RO) also includes pension management center (PMC), where appropriate. Unless otherwise noted, the term “claims folder” refers to the official, numbered, Department of Veterans Affairs (VA) repository – whether paper or electronic – for all documentation relating to claims that a Veteran and/or his/her survivors file with VA. Reason(s) for the Change Citation To incorporate guidance from the Veterans Claims Intake Program (VCIP) Shipping Standard Operating Procedure (SOP) and the Shipping Exception Guidance from the VCIP Transformation and Initiative Pilot (TIP) Sheet by creating new Section F, “Veterans Claims Intake Program (VCIP) Shipping” new Topic 1, “Overview of VCIP Shipping Procedures for Claims Folders, Service Treatment Records (STRs), and Personnel Records” new Topic 2, “Record Management Number (RMN)/Document Control Sheet (DCS) Shipping Process,” and new Topic 3, “Shipping Exceptions and Upload Failure Guidance.” M21-1, Part III, Subpart ii, Chapter 1, Section F (III.ii.1.F) Rescissions None Authority By Direction of the Under Secretary for Benefits Signature Thomas J. Murphy, Director Compensation Service Distribution LOCAL REPRODUCTION AUTHORIZED
assign a claim number, and go to Step 3. References: For more information on previously established claims folder numbers, see M21-1, Part III, Subpart ii, 3.A.1.d, and assigning a claim number, see M21-1, Part III, Subpart ii, 3.A.1.f. 3 Does a claims folder need establishment in VA systems? If yes manually establish a claims folder in VA systems, and go to Step 5. If no, go to Step 4. References: For more information on when to establish a claims folder in VA systems, see M21-1, Part III, Subpart ii, 3.B.2.a, and manually establishing a claims folder in VA systems, see Part III, Subpart ii, 3.B.2.c. 4 Determine the current claims folder format and request scanning (if necessary). Reference: For more information on determining the current claims folder format, see M21-1, Part III, Subpart ii, 3.B.1.f and h. 5 Establish the claim in Share, in accordance with M21-1, Part III, Subpart ii, 3.D.2.e. b. Flowchart Providing the Procedures for Share Claims Establishment Follow the procedures contained in the flowchart below when establishing claims in Share. 7. Exhibit: Segmented Lane Assignment Criteria Change Date June 30, 2015 a. Segmented Lane Criteria Below is a graphic representation of the segmented lane assignment criteria.
Change Date October 9, 2015 a. Controlling a Perfected Appeal in VBMS After receiving a decision on an NOD, the claimant may choose to submit a VA Form 9, Appeal to Board of Veterans’ Appeals to show his/her disagreement with the NOD decision and certify an appeal to the Board of Veterans’ Appeals (BVA). Follow the steps in the table below to establish control of a perfected appeal. Step Action 1 Open the appellant’s VBMS profile and select NEW CLAIM. 2 Review the following information and update fields as necessary ADDRESS TELEPHONE NUMBER, and POWER OF ATTORNEY (POA). 3 Enter 170FRM9 – FORM 9 in the EP & CLAIM LEVEL field. 4 Enter the date the VA received the VA Form 9 in the DATE OF CLAIM field. 5 Assign the 170FRM9 to APPEALS (NATIONAL) as the SEGMENTED LANE Example: 6 Select SUBMIT to save the information. 7 Use the table below to complete the contentions screen in VBMS. Important: If there is any ambiguity as to what the claimant is appealing or if the claimant adds a new contention, the Intake Processing Center (IPC) enters “miscellaneous” as the contention forwards the EP to an appeals Veterans Service Representative (VSR) VBMS work queue, and leaves a system note regarding the ambiguity.
We sent a copy of this letter to [Enter name of Service Organization/POA.], who you have appointed as your representative. If you have questions or need assistance, you can also contact your representative. [If the Veteran does not have a VSO use the following text:] We have no record of you appointing a service organization or representative to assist you with your claim. You can contact us for a listing of the recognized Veterans’ Service Organizations and/or representatives. Veterans’ Service Organizations, which are recognized or approved to provide services to the veteran community, can also help you with any questions. Thank you, Regional Office Director Enclosure(s): Where to Send Your Written Correspondence VA Form 21-0958 cc: [Insert POA if applicable.] d. Exhibit: Lost NOD – No Issues Identified Letter A sample of the Lost NOD – No Issues Identified letter is shown below. Department Of Veterans Affairs [MM/DD/YYYY] Dear [Insert appellant’s name.]: Our records show that you filed a notice of disagreement on [MM/DD/YYYY]. Unfortunately, we have not been able to locate the
To add information about Separation Health Assessment (SHA). III.iv.3.A.13.b To add a new Block containing guidance on the SHA and general medical examinations. III.iv.3.A.13.c To expand the guidance that was previously for BDD claims and pregnant servicewomen so that it is now relevant to examinations of pregnant claimants. III.iv.3.A.14 To delete outdated guidance on BDD claims and pregnant servicewomen. -- To add new topic providing guidance on examiner review of the claims folder. III.iv.3.A.15 To add new Block consolidating and updating the procedures for requesting an exam. III.iv.3.A.16.a To delete and relocate to new Topic 2 Blocks a and b on the ERB and CAPRI. -- To update guidance on entering an exam request in Compensation and Pension Record Interchange (CAPRI). To add discussion of entering the claim type and special considerations. III.iv.3.A.16.b To delete outdated information on adding priority of an exam request as this field is no longer available in CAPRI. -- To relocate guidance on the folder copy of the examination request to Topic 16, Block a. -- To relocate guidance on requesting examination of claimants residing in the jurisdiction of another regional office to Topic 1. -- Rescissions None Authority By Direction of the Under Secretary for Benefits Signature Thomas J. Murphy, Director Compensation Service Distribution LOCAL REPRODUCTION AUTHORIZED
there is an active corporate record, and another future examination diary is not currently pending the diary command in Share with reason code 01. Note: A future examination diary cannot be added for a date greater than five years in the future. there is not an active corporate record, and the examination date is neither less than 10 days in the future, nor greater than one year in the future a future pending issue under end product (EP) 310 established in VBMS or Share. the future examination cannot be controlled under either situation described above a local diary. Note: Individual ROs may exercise discretion in the manner in which they control these cases. Reference: For more information on establishing future examination control in Share, see the , or VBMS, see the . d. Action When the Control Period for the Future Examination Matures When an 810 series work item 631A Future Physical Examination or 631R Review Need for Reevaluation is generated, a future pending issue matures, or a local diary matures, the claims folder is referred to the rating activity for review. Use the table below to determine the subsequent action. If the rating activity determines that it is necessary to … Then … And … proceed with the examination establish an EP 310 use the date on the 810 series work item, 631A Future Physical Examination, or 631R Review Need for Reevaluation as the date of claim, and ensure the SUPPRESS LETTER checkbox is selected. request an examination. cancel the examination complete a rating decision to establish permanency.
e. Considering SC for Refractive Errors The effects of uncomplicated refractive errors must be excluded in considering impairment of vision from the standpoint of service connection (SC) and evaluation. Exception: Myopia may progress rapidly during the periods of service and lead to destructive changes, such as changes in the choroid retinal hemorrhage, and retinal detachment. Notes: Children are usually hyperopic at birth and subsequently become less so, or they become emmetropic, or even myopic. In adults, refractive errors are generally stationary or change slowly until the stage of presbyopia, also a developmental condition. When dealing with refractive error only, if the best corrected vision on any examination by the Department of Veterans Affairs (VA) is better than prior determinations, view these prior determinations to be erroneous or at least as not representing best correction. Reference: For more information on considering SC for refractive error of the eye, see . f. Evaluation of Visual Acuity Evaluate central visual acuity on the basis of corrected distance vision with central fixation, even if a central scotoma is present. Exception: Evaluate the visual acuity of the poorer eye using either its uncorrected or corrected visual acuity, whichever results in better combined visual acuity, when the lens required to correct distance vision in the poorer eye differs by more than three diopters from the lens required to correct distance vision in the better eye the difference is not due to congenital or developmental refractive error, and either the poorer eye or both eyes are SC. Reference: For more information on evaluating based on visual acuity, see . g. Evaluating Anatomical Loss of One Eye With Inability to Wear a Prosthesis When the evidence shows anatomical loss of one eye together with inability to wear a prosthesis, increase the evaluation for visual acuity under by 10 percent. Notes: The maximum evaluation for visual impairment of both eyes will not exceed 100 percent. Assignment of the 10 percent increase under precludes an evaluation under based on gross distortion or asymmetry of an eye. A separate evaluation
3.310 evaluate the TBI at the highest level in which a criterion is met. Because “normal structural imaging,” “abnormal structural imaging” and “AOC greater than 24 hours” may be found at more than one severity level, evaluate severity based on other criteria in the table. If no other criteria are present, then determine the level of severity as follows. If AOC is greater than 24 hours and no other criteria are present, determine the severity as moderate. If structural imaging is noted as normal and no other criteria are present, determine the severity as mild. If structural imaging is noted as abnormal and no other criteria are present, determine the severity as moderate. If the level of severity cannot be determined based on the available evidence, then apply the provisions of and order a VA examination/medical opinion as necessary. d. Evidence That May be Relevant to the Initial Severity Factors Evidence that may be relevant in ascertaining the initial severity of TBI symptoms includes lay statements provided by the Veteran lay statements from witnesses to the injury history provided by the Veteran in medical reports, to include VA exams, and service treatment records (STRs) at any time after the TBI. Note: The evidence that establishes the initial severity of the TBI does not necessarily have to be contemporaneous to the injury as long as it relates to the condition of TBI at or shortly after the time of the injury. Example: A Korean War Veteran submits a claim for SC for Parkinsonism secondary to his SC TBI. The Veteran’s discharge examination from 1954 mentions a history of TBI in service. However, it does not contain information sufficient to determine the level of severity of the initial TBI injury. The Veteran provides a statement that he experienced a loss of consciousness during the Battle of Chosin Reservoir. A review of prior VA examination reports reveals a history provided by the Veteran that he was told by fellow soldiers that he fell unconscious for almost an hour after two grenades exploded near him. Analysis: Although service records do not reveal the specific level of TBI during service, the Veteran’s statement is credible, consistent with circumstances of his service, and therefore sufficient to determine that he experienced a moderate level of TBI during service.
Section C. Completing the Rating Decision Narrative Overview In This Section This section contains the following topics: Topic Topic Name 1 Basic Information on Rating Decisions 2 Introduction 3 Decision 4 Evidence 5 Basic Information on Reasons for Decision 6 Short Form Rating Narrative 7 Long Form Rating Narrative 8 References 1. Basic Information on Rating Decisions Introduction This topic contains basic information on rating decisions including , and using Veterans Benefits Management System – Rating (VBMS-R). Change Date June 18, 2015 a. Definition: Decision A decision means a formal determination on all questions of fact and law affecting the provision of Department of Veterans Affairs (VA) benefits to a claimant. Reference: For more information on statutory decision requirements, see , and . b. Definition: Rating Decision A rating decision is a record purposes document detailing the formal determination made by the regional office (RO) rating activity regarding one or more issues of benefit entitlement. The rating decision states the decisions made and provides an explanation supporting each decision.
8 After adding all necessary rating and notification letter language, click OK to finalize the decision for this issue. 9 Under the ISSUE LIST found on the ISSUE MANAGEMENT screen, ensure that the previous condition (in this case, the left ankle strain) is marked for deletion as shown below. Example: 10 Select the previous condition (in this case, the left ankle strain), and click DELETE ISSUE. 11 Select the MASTER RECORD tab, and under the DISABILITY DECISIONS tab, ensure the entry in the TO DATE field for the previous DC matches the FROM DATE field for the new DC (as shown below). Example: 4. Evidence Introduction This topic contains information on the Evidence section of the Narrative, including overview of the Evidence section of a rating decision generating the Evidence section of a rating decision, and guidelines for the Evidence section of a rating decision. Change Date March 17, 2016 a. Overview of the Evidence Section of a Rating Decision The Evidence section is a listing of each piece of evidence considered in arriving at the decision, which may include but is not limited to service treatment records (STRs) service personnel records private and VA treatment records VA or contract examination reports to include Disability Benefits Questionnaires (DBQs) lay statements, and/or written or oral testimony, to include hearing transcripts.
a. SMC Codes VBMS-R captures the required SMC code data for Codesheet entry during data entry on the SMC Rating Tab. References: For more information, see M21-1, Part IV, Subpart ii, 2.H the , and the . 6. Special Notations and Notification Templates Introduction This topic contains information on use of the SPECIAL NOTATION field and notification template, including purpose of special notations and notification templates special notation field 38 CFR 4.68 amputation rule template 38 CFR 3.105(a) grant template, clear and unmistakable error (CUE) accrued grant template, and special coding for Chemical, Biological, Radiological, Nuclear, and Explosives (CBRNE) Change Date April 3, 2015 a. Purpose of Special Notations and Notification Templates The primary purposes of notations made in the SPECIAL NOTATION field and the notification template fields on the Codesheet are to record special remarks or approvals applicable to the rating decision, and to communicate an instruction or administrative message to a Veterans Service Representative (VSR). Note: All special notations and templates are generated through input in the Issue Management tab of VBMS-R. Reference: For further information, see the . b. Special Notation Field Use the SPECIAL NOTATION field to communicate an instruction or administrative message to the VSR. Clarify if the message is solely administrative (for example, Cancel the erroneously established EP 930) or
regarding the competency determination, or additional medical evidence concerning the issue of competency has been received fiduciary hub has jurisdiction of the final determination. c. Making Final Competency Determinations When Additional Medical Evidence or a Hearing Request Is Received The table below describes the appropriate process for making final competency determinations at the RO co-located with the fiduciary hub when additional medical evidence or a hearing request is received. Step Responsible Employee Action 1 Fiduciary hub employee transfers the claims folder to the RO co-located with the fiduciary hub upon receipt of a request for hearing concerning the competency determination, or additional medical evidence concerning the competency determination transfers jurisdiction of the EP 600 from the fiduciary hub to the RO co-located with the fiduciary hub, and closes the tracked item in VBMS or Modern Awards Processing – Development (MAP-D) and changes the claim status to Inter-office action required: Additional Competency Evidence to VSC. 2 VSR at the RO with the fiduciary hub monitors workload management reports for claims with the status of Inter-office action required: Additional Competency Evidence to VSC, and provides the claims folder for RVSR review and final decision preparation. 3 RVSR at the RO with the fiduciary hub conducts all requested hearings concerning the competency determination reviews all additional medical evidence received since the initial proposal of a finding of incompetency, and issues a final decision based on all the evidence of record. 4 VSR at the RO If the beneficiary is rated competent processes any award actions
with the fiduciary hub sends notification to the beneficiary clears the pending EP 600, and returns the claims folder jurisdiction to the SOO. If the beneficiary is rated incompetent processes any award actions sends notification to the beneficiary completes VA Form 21-592, Request for Appointment of a Fiduciary, Custodian, or Guardian, and sends it to the fiduciary hub. Note: The fiduciary hub subsequently establishes an EP 290 and releases retroactive benefits upon appointment of a fiduciary, if appropriate. References: For more information on jurisdiction of a final competency determination, see M21-1, Part III, Subpart iv, 8.A.3.b processing a beneficiary’s request for a hearing, see M21-1, Part III, Subpart v, 9.B.3.h, and determining when a competency rating is needed after a decree by a court, see M21-1, Part III, Subpart iv, 8.A.5.b. 4. Changing Competency Status Introduction This topic contains information about changing competency status, including proposing incompetency determining restored competency limitations after competency is restored, and evidence required to restore competency. Change Date August 3, 2009
of Evaluation of a Disability Eliminated by NSC Amputation extremity – eliminating a SC disability distal to the site of the amputation that had been in effect for more than 20 years – the evaluation of the eliminated disability is protected. Reference: For more information on protection due to amputation see, Part III, Subpart iv, 8.C.2.e. n. Effect of Return to Active Duty The statute prohibits payment of compensation for a period in which an individual receives active service pay. Therefore, where compensation is discontinued following reentry into active service continuity of the rating is interrupted for the purposes of achieving the protection offered by , and the disability cannot be considered to have been continuously rated during the period in which compensation is discontinued. Reference: For more information on the effects of reentry in active duty on disability evaluations, see . 2. Ten-Year Protected SC Under 38 CFR 3.957 Introduction This topic contains information about the protection of SC under 38 CFR 3.957, including protection under 38 CFR 3.957 determining the ten-year period protection of SC for death DC change or correction of site of disability and protection of SC protection of SC for disability eliminated by NSC amputation, and protection inapplicable for benefits under 38 U.S.C. 1151. Change Date February 3, 2016 a. Protection Under 38 CFR 3.957 Protection from severance of SC is based on , implemented by . If SC for disability or cause of death has been in effect 10 or more years, propose severance only if the original grant was based on fraud, or it is clearly shown that the person concerned did not have the requisite
the claimant’s contentions contains enough information to identify some, but not all, of the claimant’s contentions follow the instructions in M21-1, Part III, Subpart i, 3.B.1, and attempt to obtain clarification from the claimant by telephone. If telephone contact with the claimant is unsuccessful or further attempts to obtain clarification would result in a delay of more than one business day, follow the instructions in M21-1, Part III, Subpart i, 3.B.2.a for excluding the claim from the FDC Program. does not contain enough information to identify the claimant follow the instructions in M21-1, Part III, Subpart ii, 1.B.2.e. i. Handling an Unsigned EZ Form Follow the instructions in the table below if a claimant who requests processing of his/her claim under the FDC Program submits an EZ form that is unsigned. Important: VA does not require a signature on forms claimants submit through VONAPP or VDC. If ... Then ... the EZ form represents an original claim for benefits, and the claimant did not sign the form follow the instructions in M21-1, Part III, Subpart ii, 2.C.1.q.
request for scanning of a paper claims folder. c. Jurisdiction of Claims Received Through VDC VDC accepts pre-discharge claims (excluding Integrated Disability Evaluation System (IDES) claims). Acceptable pre-discharge claims fall into the following two categories Benefits Delivery at Discharge (BDD), and Quick Start (QS). Note: Upon receipt of a pre-discharge claim through VDC, follow the VONAPP guidance found in M21-1, Part III, Subpart i, 2.B.3. d. FOIA Requests through VDC Freedom of Information Act (FOIA) requests may be contained within materials submitted by the claimant via VDC. Reference: For guidance on processing FOIA requests, see M27-1, Part I, 7, and M21-1, Part III, Subpart II, 1.E.4.
application initiation date, and determining the effective date for VDC claims. Change Date June 26, 2015 a. Date Stamp for Claims Submitted Electronically Once a claim is submitted through eBenefits, VDC will time stamp the application and note the claim was submitted electronically on the top left corner of the application. b. Date of Claim for VDC Claims Upon submission, VDC automatically establishes the EP with the date of claim matching the submission date. c. Application Initiation Date A claimant has up to one year to complete and submit an application once it is initiated in VDC. The application initiated date is recorded in the VA Date Stamp box on the top right corner of the application. d. Determining the Effective Date for VDC Claims For the purpose of determining the effective date, decision makers should consider the application initiated or intent to file (ITF) date as the date of claim. Applications created through VDC on or after March 24, 2015, will not contain an application initiation date, as the application initiation date will be captured as an ITF in accordance with the Standard Claims and Appeals Forms Rule. Note: The application initiated or ITF date should not be entered into Veterans Benefits Administration (VBA) electronic systems as the date of claim. Reference: For more information regarding the ITF process, see M21-1, Part III, Subpart ii.2.D.
Department of Veterans Affairs M21-1, Part III, Subpart vi Veterans Benefits Administration May 14, 2015 Washington, DC 20420 Transmittal Sheet Changes Included in This Revision The table below describes the changes included in this revision of Veterans Benefits Manual M21-1, Part III, “General Claims Process,” Subpart vi, “Special Authorization Issues.” Notes: Unless otherwise noted, the term “claims folder” refers to the official, numbered, Department of Veterans Affairs (VA) repository – whether paper or electronic – for all documentation relating to claims that a Veteran and/or his/her survivors file with VA. Minor editorial changes have also been made to update procedures for electronic claims folder processing update incorrect or obsolete references update the term “notification letter” to “decision notice” update obsolete terminology, where appropriate clarify block labels and/or block text, and bring the document into conformance with M21-1 standards. Reason(s) for the Change Citation To delete the note in Block d as redundant because the same information regarding eligibility of National Guard or Reserve members already appears in Block d as important bulleted items. M21-1, Part III, Subpart vi, Chapter 7, Topic 2, Block d (III.vi.7.2.d) To add a note stating the claimant requesting civil service preference must certify and document the Veteran’s inability to work because of a service-connected disability by completing Standard Form (SF) 15, Application for 10-Point Preference. III.vi.7.2.h To add instructions that if the claims folder is an electronic claims folder (eFolder), the request document must be annotated in Veterans Benefits Management System (VBMS). III.vi.7.7.c To add instructions that if the claims folder is an electronic claims folder (eFolder), the request document must be annotated in VBMS. III.vi.7.7.d Rescissions None Authority By Direction of the Under Secretary for Benefits Signature
needs on VA Form 10-7131. To clarify procedures for responding to VA Form 10-7131 requests that only require the review of the claims folder in order to provide the requested information. III.v.7.A.2.b To clarify when an administrative decision is required to respond to a medical facility’s request regarding eligibility for health care. III.v.7.A.3.a To clarify that requests involving the authorization activity involve administrative decisions, and To add a reference to the Topic describing guidance on administrative decisions when receiving a request from the medical facility for medical benefits. III.v.7.A.3.b To clarify when a medical facility may request an RO to make a determination as to whether a particular condition is service-connected for treatment purposes only. III.v.7.A.4.a To add a reference for processing requests for medical outpatient benefits. III.v.7.A.4.b To add a reference for guidance when returning VA Form 10-7131 to the medical facilities. III.v.7.A.6.c To clarify that health care benefits are based on discharges that are characterized as under conditions other than dishonorable, and that medical facilities may request information from ROs when a character of discharge decision is required. III.v.7.A.7.a To add a reference for referring cases to the authorization activity when eligibility determinations are required. III.v.7.A.7.d To clarify that the medical facility is responsible for determinations for eligibility to other services due to nasopharyngeal radium irradiation (NRI) treatment. III.v.7.A.11.f To add an explanation of Public Law 94-491, which established eligibility for medical services for certain members of the Polish and Czechoslovakian Armed Forces who served during World War I or II. III.v.7.A.12.a To clarify that the Wilmington VA Medical Center, Medical Administration Service, is responsible for developing claims for eligbility of medical services from members of the Polish and Czechoslovakian Armed Forces, and To add a reference for rating guidance for these types of claims for treatment purposes. III.v.7.A.12.c Rescissions None Authority By Direction of the Under Secretary for Benefits Signature Thomas J. Murphy, Director
3.317 entitlement requesting an examination in a Southwest Asia claim, and Notice to Examiners in Southwest Asia Claims. Change Date February 16, 2016 a. When a Gulf War Examination is Necessary provides that an examination is necessary in cases falling under when there is competent lay or medical evidence of a chronic disease (or chronic signs or symptoms of a disease) listed in manifesting within the period specified in , namely no later than December 31, 2016, for disability due to undiagnosed illness and medically unexplained chronic multi-symptom illnesses, or as provided in for infectious diseases, and service required by , which is either qualifying service in the Southwest Asia theater of operations as defined in , or qualifying service in Afghanistan (for the purpose of a claim under only). Exception: An examination is not necessary in a Southwest Asia claim as provided in M21-1, Part IV, Subpart ii, 1.E.2.d-h. Important: The Veteran does not have to identify a claimed disability as due to Gulf War service. VA must broadly consider applicable legal avenues that may be available based on the facts – even if not specifically pleaded by the claimant. The threshold for requiring an examination is low. It is lower than the standard to prove entitlement to SC under , because the purpose is only to determine whether VA has a duty to assist in substantiating the claim. References: For more information on requesting an examination in a Southwest Asia claim, see M21-1, Part IV, Subpart ii, 1.E.2.i the “Notice to Examiners in Southwest Asia Claims,” see M21-1, Part IV, Subpart ii, 1.E.2.j determining when an examination or opinion is necessary under the duty to assist, see M21-1, Part I, 1.C.3 concepts and principles on deciding claims for SC under , see M21-1, Part IV, Subpart ii, 2.D, and evaluating evidence, see M21-1, Part III, Subpart iv, 5. b. Impact of Known Clinical Diagnoses on When a Veteran has sought treatment for claimed chronic signs and symptoms listed in , it is likely that the medical provider has rendered a diagnosis for those symptoms. However, the existence of a clinical diagnosis
Perry. To add a note that participation in mustard agent and Lewisite testing can be considered a stressor in determining SC for posttraumatic stress disorder (PTSD). To delete obsolete information about retention of claims at the local RO if they were received before January 19, 2005. To provide guidance that claims or appeals based on mustard agent or Lewisite exposure received on or after January 19, 2005, will be mailed or electronically transferred to Muskogee Regional Office (RO). To provide references regarding priority processing and transferring electronic claims folders. To add a note that Muskogee will retain jurisdiction of any new claims received after receipt of a mustard gas claim. To remove the requirement that final rating decisions should be emailed to Compensation Service. IV.ii.2.F.2.b To add guidance that, in addition to controlling a claim based on exposure to a mustard agent or lewisite with a standard compensation end product (EP), it is necessary to establish an EP 688. IV.ii.2.F.3.a To replace Modern Awards Processing – Development (MAP-D) guidance with guidance specific to the Veteran’s Benefits Management System (VBMS). IV.ii.2.F.3.b To add a new Block c with guidance on requesting access to the U.S. Department of Defense (DoD) and Department of Veterans Affairs (VA) Chemical Biological Warfare Exposure System (Chem-Bio) database. IV.ii.2.F.3.c To provide a revised e-mail address for Compensation Service’s mustard gas mailbox. IV.ii.2.F.3.d To revise the address in the box for sending the Veteran’s service personnel records for exposure verification from 212 to 211B. IV.ii.2.F.3.e To provide guidance on coding in VBMS-Rating (VBMS-R) for conditions claimed or determined to be to mustard gas. IV.ii.2.F.3.f Rescissions Authority By Direction of the Under Secretary for Benefits Signature Thomas J. Murphy, Director Compensation Service
Reference: For more information on the diseases for which SC may be established on a presumptive basis and the service requirements that must be met, see . 3. Developing Claims for SC for Asbestos-Related Diseases Introduction This topic contains information on developing claims for SC for diseases, including entitlement to SC for conditions based on exposure to asbestos development action to take when no disability related to asbestos exposure is claimed use of Military Occupational Specialty (MOS) to determine probability of in-service asbestos exposure developing for evidence of in-service asbestos exposure in substantially complete claims consideration of all evidence in the claims folder in determining in-service asbestos exposure, and requesting an examination and opinion for claims based on asbestos exposure. Change Date August 7, 2015 a. Entitlement to SC for Conditions Based on Exposure to Asbestos Veterans who were exposed to asbestos while in service and developed a disease related to that asbestos exposure may receive compensation benefits. Claims based on exposure to asbestos require a military occupational skill with exposure to asbestos or other exposure event associated with service sufficient to request an examination with medical opinion as described in M21-1, Part IV, Subpart ii, 1.I.3.f, and a diagnosed disability that has been associated with in-service asbestos exposure. Note: Occupational exposure is the most common cause of asbestosis, but the condition also can have other causes. Reference: For more information on asbestos exposure to include rating guidance, see M21-1, Part IV, Subpart ii, 2.C.2. b. Development A claim is not substantially complete if a Veteran alleges exposure to asbestos during service, but does not claim SC for a specific disability. In such cases,
and 38 CFR 3.358 Vs. 38 CFR 3.361 VA to establish an additional requirement for a showing of fault. PL 104-204 Section 422 amended the causation standard for claims under to include a fault element. Prior to October 1, 1997, a showing of VA fault or failure to exercise reasonable skill and care is not an element of establishing causation for entitlement to benefits. Statutory language imposed the requirement of a causal connection only between the injury or aggravation of an injury and hospitalization, medical or surgical treatment, or the pursuit of a course of vocational rehabilitation. This standard of causation is discussed in . On or after October 1, 1997, an additional fault element was added under , requiring that the evidence show that additional disability or death was caused by either an event not reasonably foreseeable, or carelessness, negligence, lack of proper skill, error in judgment, or similar instance of fault. Reference: For more information on the revision of causation to include the addition of the fault requirement, see , 1 Vet. App. 584 (1991), 513 U.S. 115(1994) PL 104-204 Section 422, and . r. Definition of Hospitalization under 38 CFR 3.358 Vs. Hospital Care Under 38 CFR 3.361 PL 104-204 Section 422 changed the term hospitalization to hospital care effective October 1, 1997. Hospitalization, as included in , is not restricted to activities specifically related to care and treatment but encompasses the entire process of maintaining or lodging a patient during the period of hospitalization. Hospital care, as included in , encompasses, at a minimum, services unique to the hospitalization of patients. Whether there was hospital care for the purpose of depends on a variety of factors, including the nature of services degree of VA control over patient freedom mental and physical condition of patients, and foreseeability of potential harm. Reference: For more information on the definition of and distinction between hospitalization and hospital care, see , and M21-1, Part IV, Subpart ii, 2.G.1.d. 2. Considering Specific Instances of Causation and Fault Under 38 U.S.C. 1151