This benefit provides free health care and the possibility of monthly compensation for health conditions which have been formally recognized by the VA as “service connected.”  A service connected disability is any current, chronic health condition which has its origins during the veteran’s active duty.  Such conditions can range from combat wounds, health conditions (e.g. hypertension) diagnosed during active duty service or conditions as the result of chemical exposure during active duty (e.g. mesothelioma due to asbestos exposure).
 

The most common service connected condition is Hearing Loss and Tinnitus (ringing in the ears).  Due to the noise exposure associated with military service (especially those that served in combat) and the lack of hearing protection, many of our veterans suffer noise-induced hearing problems which may be, at least partially, attributable to their military service.

Once a condition is determined to be service connected, a disability percentage is established.  This rating corresponds to the average earning capacity impairment due to the symptoms associated with the service connected disability.  These range from 0% to 100% in 10% increments.  Each disability rating corresponds to a monthly monetary benefit.

Back to Lane County Veterans Services