★ Vision & Eye
Diabetic Retinopathy VA Rating
38 CFR § 4.79 (rated by visual impairment)
Overview
Retinopathy progresses from non-proliferative to proliferative; macular edema is a key vision-threatening complication.
Treatment includes laser photocoagulation, anti-VEGF injections, and vitrectomy.
The rating tracks visual acuity and field loss, not the retinopathy stage itself.
How to Establish Service Connection
- Secondary to service-connected diabetes mellitus.
- Direct: documented in-service onset.
Rating Criteria
Paraphrased from 38 CFR § 4.79 (rated by visual impairment)
| Rating | Criteria |
|---|---|
| 0–100% | Rate visual acuity (DC 6066) and field loss (DC 6080) using bilateral vision tables. |
See what each percentage pays in 2026 and how it combines with your current rating →
Evidence Checklist
- Ophthalmology / retina specialist notes.
- Fundus photography and OCT.
- Visual acuity and field testing.
- Records of treatments (anti-VEGF, laser).
Common Secondary Conditions
Conditions frequently service-connected as secondary to Diabetic Retinopathy:
Frequently Asked Questions
Have a Diabetic Retinopathy claim or denial?
Four fields. A VA-accredited claims agent reviews it and responds within 3–5 business days. Contingent fees apply only to awarded past-due benefits on appeals — never on initial claims.
Requesting a consultation does not create representation and is not a guarantee of any outcome. Representation begins only after a written fee agreement and VA Form 21-22a are signed.
Educational content only — not legal advice and not medical advice. Rating criteria on this page are summarized in plain English from 38 CFR Part 4; consult VA.gov or the current Code of Federal Regulations for official criteria. This page provides general education about how the VA rates this condition; it is not individualized advice, does not establish a representation relationship, and should not be used to self-diagnose, self-treat, or decide a course of action without speaking to a qualified clinician and a VA-accredited representative. Outcomes depend on each veteran's individual facts, evidence, and the adjudicator's judgment; no specific rating, effective date, or other result is guaranteed. Oakridge Claims is a private business and is not affiliated with, endorsed by, or operated by the US Department of Veterans Affairs.