Bronchiectasis
Bronchiectasis is rated under 38 CFR 38 CFR § 4.97, Diagnostic Code 6601, from 10% to 100% based on the frequency and functional severity of symptoms. The maximum 100% rating requires: With incapacitating episodes of infection of at least six weeks total duration per year. Most claims establish the 10% or 30% rating before reaching the top tier.
Rating schedule — DC 6601 at a glance
- Minimum rating
- 10%
- Maximum rating
- 100%
- Rating tiers
- 4
- CFR section
- 38 CFR § 4.97
- Body system
- Respiratory System
- Secondary conditions
- 0
Lowest schedular rating available
Full schedular disability
10%, 30%, 60%, 100%
Part 4 rating schedule
None mapped
What are the VA rating criteria for Bronchiectasis?
Intermittent productive cough with acute infection requiring a course of antibiotics at least twice a year
With incapacitating episodes of infection of two to four weeks total duration per year, or; daily productive cough with sputum that is at times purulent or blood-tinged and that requires prolonged (lasting four to six weeks) antibiotic usage more than twice a year
With incapacitating episodes of infection of four to six weeks total duration per year, or; near constant findings of cough with purulent sputum associated with anorexia, weight loss, and frank hemoptysis and requiring antibiotic usage almost continuously
With incapacitating episodes of infection of at least six weeks total duration per year
“With incapacitating episodes of infection of four to six weeks total duration per year, or; near constant findings of cough with purulent sputum associated with anorexia, weight loss, and frank hemoptysis and requiring antibiotic usage almost continuously”
Common Questions About Bronchiectasis VA Ratings
What is the VA rating range for Bronchiectasis?
The VA rates Bronchiectasis under Diagnostic Code 6601 at 10%, 30%, 60%, 100%. The minimum 10% rating requires: Intermittent productive cough with acute infection requiring a course of antibiotics at least twice a year. The maximum 100% rating requires: With incapacitating episodes of infection of at least six weeks total duration per year.
Which 38 CFR diagnostic code does the VA use for Bronchiectasis?
The VA rates Bronchiectasis under Diagnostic Code (DC) 6601, governed by 38 CFR 38 CFR § 4.97. The diagnostic code establishes the specific rating tiers and severity criteria the VA examiner applies.
What is the difference between a 10% and a 100% rating for Bronchiectasis?
A 10% rating requires: Intermittent productive cough with acute infection requiring a course of antibiotics at least twice a year. A 100% rating requires: With incapacitating episodes of infection of at least six weeks total duration per year. The difference typically reflects the frequency, severity, or functional impact of the condition as documented in medical records and C&P examination findings.
Can Bronchiectasis qualify for TDIU (Total Disability Individual Unemployability)?
Veterans rated for Bronchiectasis may qualify for TDIU if the condition — alone or in combination with other service-connected disabilities — prevents substantially gainful employment. A single disability rated at 60% or higher (or multiple disabilities combining to 70%, with one at 40%) can support a TDIU claim under 38 CFR § 4.16.
What evidence do I need to establish service connection for Bronchiectasis?
Service connection for Bronchiectasis requires three elements: (1) a current diagnosis of the condition, (2) an in-service event, injury, or disease, and (3) a medical nexus linking the current diagnosis to that in-service occurrence. A nexus letter from a treating or independent medical examiner is the most reliable nexus evidence.
What is the C&P exam like for Bronchiectasis?
A Compensation & Pension (C&P) exam for Bronchiectasis uses a Disability Benefits Questionnaire (DBQ) specific to the body system involved. The examiner documents the frequency, severity, and functional impact of your symptoms. Bring all relevant treatment records and be prepared to describe your worst-day symptoms — the examiner rates your condition based on the full clinical picture, not a single visit.
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