Hard palate, loss of — VA Rating Criteria (38 CFR DC 9911)

The VA rates Hard palate, loss of under Diagnostic Code 9911 at the following tiers: 0%, 10%, 20%, 30%. The minimum 0% rating requires: Loss of less than half, replaceable by prosthesis. The maximum 30% rating requires: Loss of half or more, not replaceable by prosthesis.

Diagnostic Code 9911 is the VA rating identifier for Hard palate, loss of within 38 CFR 38 CFR § 4.150. 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 Hard palate, loss of under DC 9911 is 30%. This tier requires: Loss of half or more, not replaceable by prosthesis. Veterans who cannot secure substantially gainful employment due to Hard palate, loss of alone or in combination with other service-connected conditions may also qualify for TDIU at the 100% compensation rate under 38 CFR § 4.16.

Hard palate, loss of is rated under 38 CFR 38 CFR § 4.150, Diagnostic Code 9911. 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 Hard palate, loss of 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 Hard palate, loss of 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.