Pancreatitis, chronic
Pancreatitis, chronic is rated under 38 CFR 38 CFR § 4.114, Diagnostic Code 7347, from 30% to 100% based on the frequency and functional severity of symptoms. The maximum 100% rating requires: Daily episodes of abdominal or mid-back pain that require three or more hospitalizations per year; and pain management by a physician; and maldigestion and malabsorption requiring dietary restriction and pancreatic enzyme supplementation. Most claims establish the 30% or 60% rating before reaching the top tier.
Rating schedule — DC 7347 at a glance
- Minimum rating
- 30%
- Maximum rating
- 100%
- Rating tiers
- 3
- CFR section
- 38 CFR § 4.114
- Body system
- Digestive System
- Secondary conditions
- 0
Lowest schedular rating available
Full schedular disability
30%, 60%, 100%
Part 4 rating schedule
None mapped
What are the VA rating criteria for Pancreatitis, chronic?
At least one episode per year of abdominal or mid-back pain that requires ongoing outpatient medical treatment for pain, digestive problems, or management of related complications including but not limited to cyst, pseudocyst, intestinal obstruction, or ascites
Three or more episodes of abdominal or mid-back pain per year and at least one episode per year requiring hospitalization for management either of complications related to abdominal pain or complications of tube enteral feeding
Daily episodes of abdominal or mid-back pain that require three or more hospitalizations per year; and pain management by a physician; and maldigestion and malabsorption requiring dietary restriction and pancreatic enzyme supplementation
“Three or more episodes of abdominal or mid-back pain per year and at least one episode per year requiring hospitalization for management either of complications related to abdominal pain or complications of tube enteral feeding”
Common Questions About Pancreatitis, chronic VA Ratings
What is the VA rating range for Pancreatitis, chronic?
The VA rates Pancreatitis, chronic under Diagnostic Code 7347 at 30%, 60%, 100%. The minimum 30% rating requires: At least one episode per year of abdominal or mid-back pain that requires ongoing outpatient medical treatment for pain, digestive problems, or management of related complications including but not limited to cyst, pseudocyst, intestinal obstruction, or ascites. The maximum 100% rating requires: Daily episodes of abdominal or mid-back pain that require three or more hospitalizations per year; and pain management by a physician; and maldigestion and malabsorption requiring dietary restriction and pancreatic enzyme supplementation.
Which 38 CFR diagnostic code does the VA use for Pancreatitis, chronic?
The VA rates Pancreatitis, chronic under Diagnostic Code (DC) 7347, governed by 38 CFR 38 CFR § 4.114. The diagnostic code establishes the specific rating tiers and severity criteria the VA examiner applies.
What is the difference between a 30% and a 100% rating for Pancreatitis, chronic?
A 30% rating requires: At least one episode per year of abdominal or mid-back pain that requires ongoing outpatient medical treatment for pain, digestive problems, or management of related complications including but not limited to cyst, pseudocyst, intestinal obstruction, or ascites. A 100% rating requires: Daily episodes of abdominal or mid-back pain that require three or more hospitalizations per year; and pain management by a physician; and maldigestion and malabsorption requiring dietary restriction and pancreatic enzyme supplementation. The difference typically reflects the frequency, severity, or functional impact of the condition as documented in medical records and C&P examination findings.
Can Pancreatitis, chronic qualify for TDIU (Total Disability Individual Unemployability)?
Veterans rated for Pancreatitis, chronic 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 Pancreatitis, chronic?
Service connection for Pancreatitis, chronic 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 Pancreatitis, chronic?
A Compensation & Pension (C&P) exam for Pancreatitis, chronic 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.
Get a Personalized Rating Analysis
VeteranHQ evaluates your symptoms against the exact 38 CFR criteria, identifies secondary conditions, and shows what evidence you need to support a higher rating.
Discover Your Benefits