Ventricular arrhythmias (sustained) — VA Rating Criteria (38 CFR DC 7011)

The VA rates Ventricular arrhythmias (sustained) under Diagnostic Code 7011 at the following tiers: 100%. The minimum 100% rating requires: For an indefinite period from the date of inpatient hospital admission for initial medical therapy for a sustained ventricular arrhythmia; or, for an indefinite period from the date of inpatient hospital admission for ventricular aneurysmectomy; or, with an automatic implantable cardioverter-defibrillator (AICD) in place. The maximum 100% rating requires: For an indefinite period from the date of inpatient hospital admission for initial medical therapy for a sustained ventricular arrhythmia; or, for an indefinite period from the date of inpatient hospital admission for ventricular aneurysmectomy; or, with an automatic implantable cardioverter-defibrillator (AICD) in place.

Diagnostic Code 7011 is the VA rating identifier for Ventricular arrhythmias (sustained) 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 Ventricular arrhythmias (sustained) under DC 7011 is 100%. This tier requires: For an indefinite period from the date of inpatient hospital admission for initial medical therapy for a sustained ventricular arrhythmia; or, for an indefinite period from the date of inpatient hospital admission for ventricular aneurysmectomy; or, with an automatic implantable cardioverter-defibrillator (AICD) in place. Veterans who cannot secure substantially gainful employment due to Ventricular arrhythmias (sustained) alone or in combination with other service-connected conditions may also qualify for TDIU at the 100% compensation rate under 38 CFR § 4.16.

Ventricular arrhythmias (sustained) is rated under 38 CFR 38 CFR § 4.104, Diagnostic Code 7011. 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 Ventricular arrhythmias (sustained) 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 Ventricular arrhythmias (sustained) 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.