Condition Rating Guides
Understand what the VA looks for at each rating level — loading conditions…
Veterans Crisis Line: Call 988, Press 1 · Text 838255 · Chat at VeteransCrisisLine.net
Understand what the VA looks for at each rating level — loading conditions…
A condition where one or more of the heart valves do not work properly, including stenosis (narrowing) and regurgitation (leaking). The VA rates heart valve disease based on your workload capacity in METs and whether you have heart failure.
The VA rates this condition based on objective clinical measurements and test results. The examiner will use standardized tests or lab values to determine the severity of your condition rather than relying primarily on subjective symptom reports.
Diagnostic code
DC 7000
Rating range
10% – 100%
Rating levels
4
Rating criteria are defined in 38 CFR 4.104, DC 7000. This guide presents a plain-language summary and is not a substitute for the full regulatory text. Always consult a VSO or VA-accredited attorney for case-specific advice.
You have chronic congestive heart failure, or your workload capacity is 3 METs or less with symptoms, or your left ventricular ejection fraction is less than 30 percent. A 100% rating is also assigned for one year following heart valve replacement (prosthetic valve).
What the VA looks for
Conditions commonly associated with Heart Valve Disease or rated under the same body system.
Hypertension (High Blood Pressure)
Coronary Artery Disease
Cardiac Arrhythmia
Peripheral Vascular Disease
Cardiomyopathy
Congestive Heart Failure
Varicose Veins
Aortic Aneurysm