Learn valuable insights from our team and discover effective ways to advocate for yourself or a loved one.
The resources here aim to minimize the frustration of navigating a complex VA disability system. This is where you’ll find up-to-date information and in-depth articles relevant to many Veterans in addition to gaining a clearer understanding of our process. You can also choose to join our effort to educate more Vets about our services.
This guide provides an overview of Gastroesophageal Reflux Disease (GERD) and how it is evaluated by the Department of Veterans Affairs (VA) for disability purposes. It explains how the VA currently rates GERD, summarizes recent regulatory updates, and outlines the types of medical documentation typically reviewed in these evaluations. The…
Anxiety disorders can have a profound effect on a veteran’s ability to work, sustain relationships, and manage everyday responsibilities. The Department of Veterans Affairs (VA) recognizes several types of anxiety disorders as potentially service-connected conditions and provides disability evaluations based on the severity of symptoms and functional impact. This guide…
High blood pressure, or hypertension, is a common condition among veterans and can contribute to other serious health complications if not properly managed. This overview explains how the Department of Veterans Affairs (VA) evaluates hypertension, and which medical documentation is typically reviewed. TL;DR: Your Key Takeaways Introduction: Understanding Your VA…
If you’re a veteran dealing with poor sleep, loud snoring, or daytime exhaustion, you’re not alone—and your VA rating for sleep apnea can make a real difference in your benefits and quality of life. We’ll walk you through exactly what the VA looks for: how ratings are decided, what evidence…
Filing a VA disability claim can feel overwhelming, especially when you encounter terms like “Disability Benefits Questionnaire” or “DBQ.” Understanding the VA DBQ process is crucial for veterans seeking compensation for service-connected conditions. This comprehensive guide walks you through each step, helping you prepare for what lies ahead and maximize…
Filing a VA disability claim can feel overwhelming, especially when you’re dealing with service-connected injuries or conditions. Unfortunately, many veterans unknowingly make critical errors during the application process that can delay their benefits or reduce their compensation. Understanding these common VA claim filing mistakes can save you months of waiting…
Veterans who have served our country deserve fair compensation for service-connected disabilities. However, many veterans receive lower-than-expected disability ratings from the VA, leaving them frustrated and potentially missing out on crucial benefits they’ve earned. Understanding why this happens and knowing how to address it can make a significant difference in…
Receiving a lower VA disability rating than expected can feel disheartening, especially when you know your condition significantly impacts your daily life. The good news? You have options. With proper VA medical documentation and a strategic approach, you can challenge that rating and potentially secure the benefits you deserve. Understanding…
Filing a Veteran disability claim can feel overwhelming, especially when you’re trying to understand how much compensation you might receive. The Department of Veterans Affairs uses a percentage-based rating system to determine your VA disability compensation, and knowing what to expect at each level can help you plan for your…
Receiving a 0% disability rating from the Department of Veterans Affairs might feel disappointing at first glance. After all, you won’t receive monthly VA disability compensation payments. However, this rating opens doors to several valuable non-compensatory benefits that can significantly impact your healthcare, career prospects, and overall well-being. At REE…
When you’ve been fighting for proper recognition of your service-connected disabilities, receiving notice of an increased VA disability rating feels like a major victory. But along with questions about your new monthly compensation comes an equally important concern: what about the money you should have been receiving all along? The…
One of the most frustrating and disheartening challenges Veterans face when filing VA medical claims is the discovery that their medical files are missing or incomplete. Whether it’s due to military hospital closures, records lost in transit, or not having been documented at all, the absence of these critical records…
Filing Veteran claims through the Department of Veterans Affairs (VA) can be complex, especially when vital documents like medical records are missing. For many Veterans, gathering medical documentation from years ago — or even recent service-related incidents — is challenging due to lost files, lack of diagnoses, or inconsistent recordkeeping.…
When Veterans receive a 0% VA disability rating, their first reaction is often confusion or frustration. After all, if there’s no monthly compensation attached to a zero-percent rating, what’s the point? This common misconception leads many Veterans to dismiss their 0% ratings as meaningless, but the reality is far more…
One of the most critical factors determining the success of your VA disability claim is the quality and completeness of the evidence you submit. Many Veterans struggle with their claims not because they don’t have legitimate service-connected disabilities, but because they lack the proper documentation to prove their case to…
For Veterans struggling with service-connected disabilities, achieving a 100% VA disability rating represents more than just a number—it’s often the key to financial stability, comprehensive healthcare, and recognition of the sacrifices made in service to our country. Understanding what this maximum rating provides can help Veterans navigate the complex disability…
Staying Active Safely in Summer Heat August brings longer, hotter days, perfect for outdoor movement, but also presenting heat-related risks, especially for Veterans managing chronic conditions or medications. Understanding hydration, timing, and smart health practices is essential to stay safe, active, and well. Why Heat Safety Matters High heat and…
Celebrating Purple Hearts: Honoring Sacrifice and Strength in Every Form Every August, our nation recognizes Purple Heart Day, where we honor the courageous service members who were wounded or made the ultimate sacrifice in defense of our country. For Veterans living with the visible and invisible scars of service, this…
Life after military service is often physically, mentally, and emotionally challenging, to say the least. For many Veterans, staying active is key to maintaining both physical health and overall well-being. Yet, injuries, chronic conditions, and mobility limitations can make traditional fitness routines feel overwhelming or out of reach. The good…
For many Veterans, life after service can feel like a balancing act. You’re managing health conditions, navigating daily responsibilities, and finding ways to stay active. Physical activity not only benefits the body; it strengthens the mind, boosts confidence, and builds community. For those living with disabilities or mobility limitations, adaptive…
Suppose you’re a Veteran pursuing VA disability compensation. In that case, you’ve likely encountered a number that can shape everything from your monthly payments to your access to vital healthcare services: your VA disability rating. But what exactly determines that rating, and what does it unlock for you? At REE…
If you’re a Veteran receiving VA disability compensation, you’ve already taken an important step to get the benefits you earned through service. But what happens when your health changes, and your current rating no longer reflects the full impact of your condition? The VA disability rating system is not set…
Filing a VA disability claim can feel like navigating a maze without a map. Despite having legitimate service-connected conditions, many Veterans face claim denials that delay or prevent access to deserved benefits. REE Medical is here to help. Understanding the most common reasons for denials—and how to avoid them—can significantly…
Military service shapes individuals in profound ways. From leadership under pressure to discipline, adaptability, and teamwork, Veterans exit the service equipped with strengths that are highly valued in the civilian workforce. But turning that experience into a rewarding career isn’t always straightforward. Whether you’re actively seeking a new role or…
For many Veterans, transitioning to civilian employment means pursuing more than just a paycheck. It involves a need to recapture purpose, reconnect with mission, and leverage the unique leadership and resilience developed in uniform. If you’re a Veteran (or supporting one), this guide explores practical, empowering strategies to discover fulfilling…
Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD) is not a sign of weakness. Rather, it’s a natural response to experiences that overwhelm the body and mind. For Veterans, those experiences can range from combat exposure and military trauma to witnessing loss or surviving life-threatening situations. PTSD doesn’t follow a fixed timeline. For some,…
The U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs Office of Inspector General (OIG) has released an important bulletin titled “OIG Intensifies Efforts to Stop Scams Targeting Veterans’ Benefits and Pensions.” This bulletin sheds light on a troubling trend: the rise in deceptive practices that target Veterans—particularly those receiving disability benefits or pensions. …
For many Veterans, the path forward after service isn’t defined by medals or milestones, but by managing the invisible wounds of war. Mental health challenges like post-traumatic stress, anxiety, and depression don’t always arrive with warning signs, but they often linger long after the uniform is folded away. This June,…
When service members transition out of the military, one of the most common challenges they face is navigating a complex and confusing post-service life alone. Whether it’s pursuing health care, securing accurate disability documentation, finding meaningful employment, or simply adjusting to civilian life, many Veterans discover that the path forward…
The bonds built during military service are unique, to say the least. They are formed through shared experience, mutual reliance, and a commitment to something greater than self. For many Veterans, these connections become the foundation for their resilience, purpose, and identity. But when military service ends, the connections that…
REE Medical Founder Dr. Adam Weissman joined Barry Shore on the Eye on Las Vegas podcast to discuss the often-overlooked struggles Veterans face long after their service ends—and what can be done about it. A former emergency room physician with more than two decades of frontline experience, Dr. Weissman brings…
Proactive Healing: How Vincent Vargas and TMRW Battalion are Changing the Conversation on PTSD For Army Veteran and actor Vincent Vargas, the mission didn’t end when he left the service. From elite deployments with the 75th Ranger Regiment to building a career in writing, film, and advocacy, Vargas has always…
From Combat to Cardboard: How Zach Bell Uses Humor and Advocacy to Empower Veterans Zach Bell’s path from Marine Infantryman to viral sensation wasn’t something he mapped out. Yet, through creative resilience and a passion for supporting Veterans, Zach—better known as “Veteran With A Sign”—has become a powerful voice for…
A Veteran’s Path to Healthcare Advocacy and Entrepreneurship When Air Force Veteran Theresa Irving retired in 2014, she couldn’t have predicted the unexpected journey ahead. What began as a frustrating quest for proper medical documentation eventually opened doors to a fulfilling career helping fellow Veterans pursue entrepreneurship. Her story reveals…
Military service members face unique challenges when transitioning to civilian life. For many Veterans, one significant hurdle is obtaining accurate medical documentation that fully reflects service-connected conditions. Three REE Medical team members—Nick Todd (U.S. Coast Guard), Chris Concannon (U.S. Air Force), and Scotty Hammonds (U.S. Marine Corps)—have shared their personal…
Stress is inevitable. But for Veterans, it often sits uniquely heavy on your shoulders (metaphorically and literally). From the high-stakes environments of military service to the adjustments of civilian life, stress can leave its mark on both the mind and body. Managing it is critical to maintaining your overall wellness…
Your heart is your lifeline—literally. For Veterans, the stressors of service, combined with life after the military, can often take a toll on Veteran heart health. But here’s the good news: taking charge of your heart health doesn’t have to be complicated. Small, consistent changes can make a significant difference. …
The Life-Changing Benefits of Accurate Ratings As of January 1, 2025, Veterans with service-connected disabilities now receive a 2.5% increase in their disability payments thanks to a cost-of-living adjustment (COLA) that matches the COLA applied to Social Security benefits, as determined by the Social Security Administration (SSA). The increased payment…
Welcome to 2025! As the new year begins, it’s a time for reflection, goal setting, and taking proactive steps toward a better future. For Veterans, this is the perfect opportunity to review your VA disability compensation and ensure you’re receiving the full support you’ve earned through your service. At REE Medical, we’re…
Navigating the VA disability claims process can feel overwhelming—particularly for Veterans who are already confronting the physical and mental toll of service-connected disabilities. Many find themselves stuck in a maze of paperwork, confused over eligibility requirements, or frustrated by delayed medical exams. These obstacles can add unnecessary stress and block…
Veterans transitioning away from active-duty military life face a unique set of challenges. Unfortunately, many may not expect to encounter difficulties, while others are simply hesitant to seek out support that could provide important opportunities and resources.Whether it’s establishing financial stability, learning how to apply skills gained in the military…
With Veterans Day approaching, USA Today just released its 2024 Veterans Affairs Special Edition. This year, REE Medical is prominently featured in the issue. The placement is part of our ongoing efforts to connect more Veterans with accurate medical evidence that can make a difference for their VA disability claims. …
Transitioning from military service to civilian life is not always easy for Veterans. Many turn to a Veterans Service Organization (VSO) for assistance during this time. VSOs can provide job placement assistance, emotional support, and other help to Veterans in need. However, the adjustment can be made even more difficult…
Living an active life is beneficial for everyone, but it can be especially critical to the well-being of Veterans. The emphasis on physical activity within the military often leads to lifelong habits that can be disrupted by injury. For Veterans with disabilities that limit their range of motion, staying active…
Transitioning from military service to civilian life is a dramatic change in the life of a Veteran. The shift is often filled with challenges, especially when searching for employment following a military career. Fortunately, many resources are available to assist Vets who need help addressing those barriers. Likewise, many hiring…
Post-traumatic stress disorder, or PTSD, is a psychiatric disorder that can develop in individuals who have experienced or witnessed a traumatic event. Veterans are particularly susceptible due to the nature of their service. Exposure to combat experiences, sexual assault, natural disasters or other incidents that cause significant distress can all…
As a Veteran, filing any claim for disability benefits can be daunting. Whether you are unsure of the process, know fellow Vets who struggled only to achieve a disappointing rating, or believe there are others more deserving of benefits, it’s not unusual to avoid the undertaking altogether.However, getting professional documentation…
Do You Qualify for a VA Disability Rating? Many Veterans are entitled to monthly tax-free compensation and critical health care due to a disability caused or worsened by their military service. Yet, it’s often unclear to Vets how eligibility for these benefits is determined and whether they would qualify. Rather…
Securing benefits from the U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs (VA) for a service-connected disability can be a daunting endeavor for Veterans. It is common for Vets to avoid or delay the process, even amid a worsening condition, due to frustration or uncertainty about the next steps. For most Veterans seeking…
Starting March 5th 2024, the VA is expanding their healthcare coverage to millions more Veterans The PACT Act is a law that enhances VA healthcare and benefits for Veterans exposed to burn pits, Agent Orange, and other toxic substances. The law also provides assistance to surviving family members of a…
A fair and accurate VA disability rating is vital for every disabled American Veteran. Not only does it reflect a commitment to honoring the sacrifices made to protect our country, but it can also significantly impact a Veteran’s financial situation. The severity of a Vet’s disability determines the amount of…
VA Disability Compensation Rates Increase for 2024 As of January 1, 2024, Veterans with service-connected disabilities now receive a 3.2% increase in their disability payments thanks to a cost-of-living adjustment (COLA) that matches the COLA applied to Social Security benefits, as determined by the Social Security Administration (SSA). The increased…
One of the most confusing aspects of a service-connected disability can be trying to understand how the severity of your condition translates into a VA disability rating. It gets even more complicated for Veterans with more than one eligible disability. Since it’s rarely simple to decipher the calculations behind the…
For Veterans, obtaining an accurate VA disability rating can be life-changing. In addition to maximizing your monthly benefit, it opens the door to much-needed medical services, including physical therapy and mental health services. However, you might be one of the many Vets concerned that too high of a disability rating…
Common misconceptions around disability benefits can deter Veterans from submitting claims, leaving them without the benefits and compensation they deserve. At REE Medical, we think it’s important to uncover the truth behind the disability claims process, starting with the essential task of distinguishing reliable information from misleading or inaccurate statements.…
Spouses and children of disabled Veterans are entitled to important benefits, including income, health care, and educational programs. A dependent’s eligibility to receive these benefits is correlated to a Veteran’s disability rating. REE Medical strives to offer unbiased information to Veterans and their dependents, empowering them with the information they…
Strengthening Your VA Disability Compensation Application with Comprehensive Medical Documentation One of the most critical factors in determining the success of VA disability claims is the quality and extent of medical evidence provided. We’ll explore the importance of medical evidence in the VA disability claims process and provide guidance on…
Post-traumatic stress disorder, often referred to as PTSD, is a condition in which a person has difficulty recovering from a traumatic incident or events. The symptoms of PTSD can be both mental and physical and may include insomnia, anxiety and/or depression, flashbacks, hallucinations, and panic attacks. These symptoms can impair…
A VA disability rating can significantly impact a Veteran’s financial situation, so it’s important to understand what a rating is, the metrics used to determine that rating, and what benefits you might be entitled to based on your VA disability rating. REE Medical is dedicated to helping Veterans understand all…
As a Veteran in Oregon, you have access to benefits that can have a significant impact on your financial future. And the level of benefits in which you are entitled is directly related to your disability rating, with the higher the rating, the greater the benefit. Let’s examine those benefits…
Florida is home to almost one and half million Veterans, and it’s a state that provides important benefits that extend beyond the national compensation and VA care available to disabled Veterans. Your VA disability rating can impact the extent of the benefits that you and your family can receive, which…
Texas is not only home to the highest number of Veterans in the country, but it also boasts a substantial list of financial benefits all Veterans deserve, especially those who were wounded or disabled as a result of their service to our country. A VA disability rating can greatly impact…
VA disability ratings can be a complicated topic for Veterans, particularly those that are unfamiliar with the VA system. Unfortunately, there are many myths surrounding VA claims and benefits, which can lead to disabled Veterans missing out on important benefits because they don’t have the right facts and information. In…
Welcome back to our series about VA benefits for veterans in each of America’s 50 states! This week, we break down the benefits available to the veterans currently living in Idaho, the Gem State! Veterans Homes There are currently four different veterans’ homes throughout the state of Idaho: Each of…
Understanding disability compensation rates can be confusing, but they don’t have to be. We’re taking a look at the revised rates for 2023! Veteran’s Disability Rates & Monthly Payments for 2023 The U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs determines a veteran’s monthly payment based on their disability rating, and certain details…
Welcome back to our series about VA benefits for veterans in each of America’s 50 states! This week, we take a look at the benefits available to veterans living in Hawaii. Keeping reading to learn more about VA benefits in The Aloha State! Veterans Homes There is one veterans’ home…
The U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs is unveiling a new life insurance option for veterans on January 1, 2023. What will the differences be between this new option – known as VALife Insurance – and the Service-Disabled Veterans Life Insurance that’s already being offered? A Brief Look at VALife Insurance…
Welcome back to our series about VA benefits for veterans in each of America’s 50 states! This week, we break down some of the best benefits available to veterans living in Georgia. Keeping reading to learn more about VA benefits in The Peach State! Veterans Homes Georgia provides two state…
While most government shutdowns have been avoided, a few have not. This leaves the question of whether a government shutdown can affect military benefits. We break it all down below! A Brief Look at How Shutdowns are Handled While government shutdowns are fairly infrequent, when they do occur, our veterans…
Welcome back to our series about VA benefits for veterans in each of America’s 50 states! This week, we take a look at the benefits available to veterans living in Florida. Keeping reading to learn more about VA benefits in The Sunshine State! Veterans Homes The state of Florida is…
After any length of time in the service, the military institution has become a big part of your personal identity. As such, it can be strange to make the transition back to a civilian way of life, but there are things you can do to make it smoother and simpler.…
Welcome back to our series about VA benefits for veterans in each of America’s 50 states! This week, we discuss the benefits available to veterans living in Delaware. Keeping reading to learn more about VA disability benefits in The First State! Veterans Homes Delaware offers one 24-acre, 15-bed veterans’ home…
Whether you’re a military service member or a military spouse, new Permanent Change of Station (PCS) orders mean moving. While moving can be stressful, it certainly doesn’t need to be! We’re offering tips to make your next PCS move go smoothly. Permanent Change of Station (PCS) Moves: The Basics Did…
Welcome back to our series about VA benefits for veterans in each of America’s 50 states! This week, we break down the many ways in which veterans can benefit from residency in Connecticut. Read on to learn more about VA benefits in The Constitution State! Veterans Homes In Connecticut, there…
Have you ever wondered how Veterans Day came to be? There’s an interesting history behind it and we’re taking a look at the origins of the day and its lasting legacy. The Significance of November 11 & Armistice Day Many people wonder why November 11th was chosen for Veterans Day,…
Welcome back to our series about VA benefits for veterans in each of America’s 50 states! This week, we look at how our veterans can benefit from residency in Colorado. Read on to learn more about VA benefits in The Centennial State! Veterans Homes Colorado is home to five state…
Last week, our Sales and Marketing Director, Linsey Baker and our Outreach Specialist, Nicola Wales-Wong had the privilege of meeting with K9s For Warriors at one of their locations in Texas, representing the REE Medical team. K9s For Warriors is a 501(c)(3) organization that provides highly trained service dogs (the…
Welcome back to our series about VA benefits for veterans in each of America’s 50 states! This week, we break down the ways our veterans can benefit from residency in California. Keep reading to learn more about VA benefits in The Golden State. Veterans Homes There are eight veterans’ homes…
Created in 1942 by artist J. Howard Miller, the Rosie the Riveter poster and the associated tagline of “We Can Do It!” was meant to encourage women to join the workforce during World War II. It accomplished that goal but has had lasting effects on women ever since. Read on…
Welcome back to our series about VA benefits for veterans in each of America’s 50 states! This week, we’re looking into the ways our veterans can benefit from residency in Arkansas. Read on to learn more about VA benefits in The Wonder State. Veterans Homes In Arkansas, there are two…
It’s been quite the wait with plenty of wondering, but the 2023 COLA numbers have finally arrived and they’re the highest in 42 years! Keep reading to see the numbers and learn how you benefit as a veteran. A Few Common Questions About COLA What is the COLA? The Cost-of-Living…
Welcome back to our series about VA benefits for veterans in each of America’s 50 states! This week, we’re delving into Arizona and looking into some of the ways our veterans can benefit from residency there. Read on to learn more about VA benefits in The Grand Canyon State. Veterans…
The United States Navy is celebrating its 247th birthday today. Because of such an interesting and distinguished path to its current state, today’s post is dedicated to a shorter version of that exciting history. A Brief History of the United States Navy On October 13, 1775, the Second Continental Congress…
Welcome back to our series about VA benefits for veterans in each of America’s 50 states! This week, we’re focusing on Alaska and delving into some of the ways our veterans can benefit from residency there. Keep reading to learn more about VA benefits in The Last Frontier. Veterans Homes…
Welcome to the first post in our series about VA benefits for veterans in each of America’s 50 states. Did you know that VA benefits differ from state to state? This week, we’re taking a look at Alabama and discussing some of the great ways our veterans can benefit from…
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