Retinopathy or maculopathy not otherwise specified DC 6006
VA rates it under diagnostic code 6006 in 38 CFR 4.79. Body system: Eyes & vision.
How VA rates it
The schedule has no fixed list of levels for this code, so any level from 0% to 100% can apply.
Rated on visual impairment or on treatment visits, whichever is higher.
Source: 38 CFR 4.79 on eCFR. Read the full criteria there before you file.
Rating levels and criteria
This code is rated under the General Rating Formula for Diseases of the Eye (38 CFR 4.79).
| Rating | What the schedule says |
|---|---|
| 60% | With documented incapacitating episodes requiring 7 or more treatment visits for an eye condition during the past 12 months |
| 40% | With documented incapacitating episodes requiring at least 5 but less than 7 treatment visits for an eye condition during the past 12 months |
| 20% | With documented incapacitating episodes requiring at least 3 but less than 5 treatment visits for an eye condition during the past 12 months |
| 10% | With documented incapacitating episodes requiring at least 1 but less than 3 treatment visits for an eye condition during the past 12 months |
Criteria text from 38 CFR 4.79, eCFR as of November 10, 2026. The eCFR is the official source if anything here differs.
Commonly claimed as secondary to
If one of these is already service connected, you may be able to claim this condition as secondary to it.
Hypertension DC 7101 Established link
High blood pressure can damage the blood vessels in the back of the eye (hypertensive retinopathy).
What to gather: An eye exam documenting hypertensive retinopathy and a medical opinion linking it to your high blood pressure.
Sources: 38 CFR 3.310 (secondary service connection); MedlinePlus: High blood pressure and eye disease; 38 CFR 4.79
Related medications
Medications that can cause or worsen it
If you take one of these for a service-connected condition, this condition may be claimable as secondary to that condition. You need a diagnosis, your prescription records, and a medical opinion.
Hydroxychloroquine (Plaquenil, Sovuna) Established link
Hydroxychloroquine can damage the retina with long-term use, which its label warns about.
Check your claim
The claim finder asks about your service and current ratings, then lists conditions you may be able to claim. The calculator shows what a new rating does to your combined rating and monthly pay.
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Rating schedule data as of November 10, 2026. Secondary and presumptive links checked November 13, 2026.
Not affiliated with the VA. VA decides ratings. Free help from an accredited VSO is available at no cost.