29 Sep 2025
💼VA Proposes Rule on Pain Evidence for Disability Evaluations
Objective Evidence of Pain for Painful Scars Under DC 7804
Summary
The Department of Veterans Affairs (VA) proposes to revise 38 CFR 4.118, diagnostic code (DC) 7804 ("Scar(s), unstable or painful"), by adding a note clarifying that VA still requires objective evidence of pain when rating a scar as painful. The inclusion of this note would align with current policy and ensure consistent application of the rating criteria.
Agencies
- Veterans Affairs Department
Business Impact
$$ - Med
The proposed rule clarifies that objective evidence of pain is required for VA disability evaluations of painful scars. This impacts businesses involved in veteran healthcare services and may affect related compliance and regulatory practices for assessments.