Before the Exam Review your medical records and know your diagnosis, diagnostic code, and current treatment plan Write a detailed personal statement describing how your condition affects your daily life, work, and relationships Note your worst days — the VA rates based on your overall impairment, not your best day List all medications you take for this condition and their side effects Prepare a timeline of your condition from onset through current symptoms Know your current treatment regimen: diet, oral medication, insulin Document whether your activities are regulated due to diabetes Track any episodes of ketoacidosis or hypoglycemia requiring medical attention Note all complications: neuropathy, retinopathy, kidney disease, ED
During the Exam Be honest — do not exaggerate or minimize your symptoms Describe your worst days, not just how you feel right now If something hurts during a range-of-motion test, say so Mention all functional limitations: sleep, work, chores, driving, social activities Report flare-ups: how often, how long, how severe, and what triggers them Do not say "I'm fine" out of habit — describe your actual condition The key rating factors are: diet restriction, medication type, activity regulation, and hospitalization history A 20% rating requires insulin or oral medication with restricted diet A 40% rating requires insulin, restricted diet, AND regulation of activities Mention each complication separately — they should be rated individually in addition to the base diabetes rating Report any episodes of ketoacidosis or hypoglycemic reactions