Eye/VisionDC 6040
Diabetic Retinopathy
Diabetic retinopathy is rated under DC 6040. This condition involves damage to the retina caused by diabetes. It is rated based on the visual impairment rating system or incapacitating episodes, whichever produces the higher rating. This is one of the most commonly rated secondary eye conditions for veterans with service-connected diabetes.
VA Rating Levels
10%
Visual impairment meets compensable level based on the VA rating tables, OR 1-2 incapacitating episodes per year.
20%
3-4 incapacitating episodes per year, or equivalent visual impairment.
40%
5-6 incapacitating episodes per year, or equivalent visual impairment.
60%
7 or more incapacitating episodes per year, or equivalent visual impairment.
Exam Tips & Key Evidence
- →Diabetic retinopathy is rated separately from your diabetes rating. If your diabetes is service-connected, retinopathy is one of the strongest secondary claims you can file.
- →If your retinopathy requires regular eye injections (like anti-VEGF treatments), each injection visit counts as an incapacitating episode. Seven or more per year yields 60%.
- →Even if your visual acuity seems relatively preserved on testing, retinopathy can cause visual field loss that is rated separately. Make sure both are evaluated.
- →Laser treatments (photocoagulation) and other procedures for retinopathy also count as incapacitating episodes. Keep records of every treatment.
- →Diabetic retinopathy can progress over time. File for increases as the condition worsens and additional treatments become necessary.
Commonly Related Conditions
38 CFR Reference
38 CFR 4.79, Diagnostic Code 6040