Hypertensive vascular disease (hypertension and isolated systolic hypertension) — VA Rating Criteria (38 CFR DC 7101)

The VA rates Hypertensive vascular disease (hypertension and isolated systolic hypertension) under Diagnostic Code 7101 at the following tiers: 10%, 20%, 40%, 60%. The minimum 10% rating requires: Diastolic pressure predominantly 100 or more, or; systolic pressure predominantly 160 or more, or; minimum evaluation for an individual with a history of diastolic pressure predominantly 100 or more who requires continuous medication for control. The maximum 60% rating requires: Diastolic pressure predominantly 130 or more.

Diagnostic Code 7101 is the VA rating identifier for Hypertensive vascular disease (hypertension and isolated systolic hypertension) 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 Hypertensive vascular disease (hypertension and isolated systolic hypertension) under DC 7101 is 60%. This tier requires: Diastolic pressure predominantly 130 or more. Veterans who cannot secure substantially gainful employment due to Hypertensive vascular disease (hypertension and isolated systolic hypertension) alone or in combination with other service-connected conditions may also qualify for TDIU at the 100% compensation rate under 38 CFR § 4.16.

Hypertensive vascular disease (hypertension and isolated systolic hypertension) is rated under 38 CFR 38 CFR § 4.104, Diagnostic Code 7101. This section is part of the Schedule for Rating Disabilities (38 CFR Part 4) and can be read in full at the eCFR website.

Conditions commonly secondary to Hypertensive vascular disease (hypertension and isolated systolic hypertension) include: Hypertensive Kidney Disease (CKD), Ischemic Heart Disease / Left Ventricular Hypertrophy, Stroke (Cerebrovascular Accident). Secondary conditions caused or aggravated by a service-connected disability are ratable under 38 CFR § 3.310. Medical nexus evidence linking the primary and secondary condition is required.

Service connection for Hypertensive vascular disease (hypertension and isolated systolic hypertension) 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.