Coronary Artery Disease (Ischemic Heart Disease)
Coronary artery disease (also called ischemic heart disease or arteriosclerotic heart disease) is rated under DC 7005 using the basic heart condition schedule. Ratings are based on METs testing, which measures how much physical activity you can handle before symptoms appear. Important: the VA only allows one rating for all basic heart conditions combined, so if you have multiple heart diagnoses, they will rate based on whichever diagnosis gives you the best result. A temporary 100% rating is assigned for three months following a heart attack or coronary bypass surgery. This is a presumptive condition for Agent Orange-exposed veterans and former POWs.
VA Rating Levels
Workload of 7.1 to 10.0 METs causes symptoms like shortness of breath, fatigue, chest pain, dizziness, or fainting. Or continuous medication is required.
Workload of 5.1 to 7.0 METs causes symptoms. Or there is evidence of cardiac hypertrophy or dilation on EKG, echocardiogram, or X-ray.
Workload of 3.1 to 5.0 METs causes symptoms.
Workload of 3.0 METs or less causes symptoms, or there is chronic congestive heart failure. A temporary 100% is also assigned for three months after a heart attack or coronary bypass surgery.
Exam Tips & Key Evidence
- →Ischemic heart disease is a presumptive condition for veterans exposed to Agent Orange, so you do not need to prove a direct connection to service if that exposure applies to you.
- →If you have had a heart attack or bypass surgery, make sure the VA assigns your temporary 100% rating during recovery. After that period, your rating will be based on residual symptoms.
- →The METs test measures your exercise capacity. A lower METs number means more limited function and a higher rating. If you cannot do a physical exercise test, the VA should use an interview-based estimate instead.
- →You can only receive one rating for all basic heart conditions (CAD, valve disease, cardiomyopathy, etc.). The VA picks whichever diagnosis gives you the highest evaluation.
Commonly Related Conditions
38 CFR Reference
38 CFR 4.104, DC 7005