Key Differences in Rating Systems for the Respiratory and Cardiovascular Systems
The rating systems for Respiratoryย andย Cardiovascularย conditions followed the same general structure as they do today, but there were fewer mandatory testing requirements.ย
Respiratory System
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Pre-2006:
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Tests Not Required:
- Pulmonary Function Tests (PFTs):ย These were not mandatory for evaluating respiratory conditions but were commonly used.
- DLCO (SB):ย The single-breath diffusing capacity for carbon monoxide was optional.
- Post-Bronchodilator Studies:ย No requirement to conduct or factor in post-bronchodilator results when determining ratings.
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Rating Process:
- Evaluations were more subjective, allowing Rating Authorities flexibility in interpreting available test results.
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Tests Not Required:
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Post-2006 (Current):
- All the above tests became mandatory.
- Strict rules now govern how to use test results to determine ratings.
Cardiovascular System
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Pre-2006:
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Tests Not Required:
- MET (Metabolic Equivalent) Tests:ย Measurements of exercise capacity in METs were optional.
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Rating Process:
- Allowed for more discretion by Rating Authorities when rating cardiovascular conditions.
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Tests Not Required:
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Post-2006 (Current):
- MET tests are required for evaluating cardiovascular conditions where exercise tolerance is a factor.
Overall Impact
- While theย criteria for ratingsย remained the same, theย rigor and consistencyย of testing improved significantly post-2006.
- Pre-2006 ratings were slightly more subjective, as Rating Authorities had more flexibility to interpret available test results.
Key Notes on Old Spine Ratings
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Segments Rated Separately:
- Cervical, dorsal, and lumbar sections could be rated individually if significantly affected.
- Minor involvement in other segments would not receive separate ratings.
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Analogous Ratings:
- Any spine condition not directly covered by the old codes was rated analogously using the closest match.
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