Diverticulitis and diverticulosis — VA Rating Criteria (38 CFR DC 7327)

The VA rates Diverticulitis and diverticulosis under Diagnostic Code 7327 at the following tiers: 0%, 20%, 30%. The minimum 0% rating requires: Asymptomatic; or a symptomatic diverticulitis or diverticulosis that is managed by diet and medication. The maximum 30% rating requires: Diverticular disease requiring hospitalization for abdominal distress, fever, and leukocytosis (elevated white blood cells) one or more times in the past 12 months; and with at least one of the following complications: (1) hemorrhage, (2) obstruction, (3) abscess, (4) peritonitis, or (5) perforation.

Diagnostic Code 7327 is the VA rating identifier for Diverticulitis and diverticulosis within 38 CFR 38 CFR § 4.114. 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 Diverticulitis and diverticulosis under DC 7327 is 30%. This tier requires: Diverticular disease requiring hospitalization for abdominal distress, fever, and leukocytosis (elevated white blood cells) one or more times in the past 12 months; and with at least one of the following complications: (1) hemorrhage, (2) obstruction, (3) abscess, (4) peritonitis, or (5) perforation. Veterans who cannot secure substantially gainful employment due to Diverticulitis and diverticulosis alone or in combination with other service-connected conditions may also qualify for TDIU at the 100% compensation rate under 38 CFR § 4.16.

Diverticulitis and diverticulosis is rated under 38 CFR 38 CFR § 4.114, Diagnostic Code 7327. 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 Diverticulitis and diverticulosis 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 Diverticulitis and diverticulosis 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.