Cardiac transplantation — VA Rating Criteria (38 CFR DC 7019)

The VA rates Cardiac transplantation under Diagnostic Code 7019 at the following tiers: 30%, 100%. The minimum 30% rating requires: Minimum. The maximum 100% rating requires: For a minimum of one year from the date of hospital admission for cardiac transplantation.

Diagnostic Code 7019 is the VA rating identifier for Cardiac transplantation within 38 CFR 38 CFR § 4.104. It defines the specific symptom criteria and percentage thresholds a VA adjudicator uses to assign a disability rating. The diagnostic code is listed on a veteran's rating decision letter.

The highest schedular rating for Cardiac transplantation under DC 7019 is 100%. This tier requires: For a minimum of one year from the date of hospital admission for cardiac transplantation. Veterans who cannot secure substantially gainful employment due to Cardiac transplantation alone or in combination with other service-connected conditions may also qualify for TDIU at the 100% compensation rate under 38 CFR § 4.16.

Cardiac transplantation is rated under 38 CFR 38 CFR § 4.104, Diagnostic Code 7019. This section is part of the Schedule for Rating Disabilities (38 CFR Part 4) and can be read in full at the eCFR website.

Secondary conditions caused or aggravated by Cardiac transplantation may be ratable under 38 CFR § 3.310. Veterans should work with a VSO or accredited claims agent to document the medical relationship.

Service connection for Cardiac transplantation requires three elements: (1) a current diagnosis of the condition, (2) an in-service event, injury, or disease that may have caused or aggravated it, and (3) a medical nexus connecting the current diagnosis to that in-service event. A nexus letter from a treating physician or independent medical examiner is the most reliable nexus evidence. C&P exam findings can also establish nexus if adequately documented.