VA Simplifies Brain Injury Claims Process
WASHINGTON (CN) - The Department of Veteran Affairs has simplified the health claims process for veterans, by recognizing the link between five diagnosable illnesses and traumatic brain injury (TBI), the agency has announced.
The illnesses include Parkinson's disease, unprovoked seizures, dementia, depression and hormone deficiency caused by hypothalamo-pituitary changes. The hypothalamus and pituitary gland together form a major part of the neuroendocrine system that controls reactions to stress and regulates bodily function including digestion, the immune system, mood and emotions.
Veterans were previously required to seek out medical opinions and other related evidence on a case-by-case basis, to determine if their illnesses were connected to service-related TBI.
http://www.courthousenews.com/2013/12/18/63874.htm