Other Specified Somatic Symptom and Related Disorder — VA Rating (DC 9422)
Diagnostic Code 9422 · 38 CFR §4.130
What Is It?
Other specified somatic symptom and related disorder is diagnosed when a veteran has symptoms characteristic of somatic symptom disorder or a related condition — significant distress or functional impairment related to physical symptoms — but does not fully meet criteria for a more specific diagnosis in that category. The clinician specifies why the full criteria are not met. For veterans, this may involve persistent health-related anxiety, excessive response to physical symptoms, or medically unexplained symptoms that developed during or after service. The condition recognizes that physical and psychological health are deeply interconnected. The VA rates it under the General Rating Formula for Mental Disorders.
Rating Criteria
| Rating | Criteria |
|---|---|
| 100% | Total occupational and social impairment where somatic concerns and related distress prevent any work, self-care, or meaningful social functioning. |
| 70% | Deficiencies in most areas due to pervasive somatic preoccupation dominating daily life, severely limiting work, social engagement, and independent functioning. |
| 50% | Reduced reliability and productivity due to persistent somatic concerns, difficulty concentrating, impaired judgment, and difficulty maintaining relationships. |
| 30% | Occasional decrease in work efficiency due to somatic preoccupation, anxiety, depressed mood, or sleep impairment. |
| 10% | Mild symptoms that decrease work efficiency only during stressful periods, or managed by medication. |
| 0% | Diagnosed but symptoms do not interfere with occupational or social functioning. |
Evidence Needed
A diagnosis from a mental health professional is required. Treatment records from both physical and mental health providers showing a pattern of somatic complaints and psychological distress are important. Medical records demonstrating repeated evaluations for physical symptoms without proportionate medical findings help establish the pattern. Buddy statements from family describing the impact of health preoccupation on daily life are valuable.
C&P Exam Tips
Describe both the physical symptoms you experience and the psychological response to them — worry, preoccupation, repeated checking, avoidance of activities. Explain how this pattern affects daily functioning, work, and relationships. If you spend significant time seeking medical care, researching symptoms, or avoiding activity due to health concerns, describe those behaviors with specifics.
How to File
File on VA Form 21-526EZ with DC 9422. Submit both physical and mental health treatment records. If related to a service-connected condition or deployment exposure, describe that connection. A nexus letter from a mental health provider is recommended.
Common Mistakes
Not understanding that this is a mental health condition rated under the psychiatric formula — veterans sometimes file only for the physical symptoms. Another mistake is not documenting the psychological component with a mental health provider.
Frequently Asked Questions
How is this different from somatic symptom disorder (DC 9421)?
DC 9421 covers somatic symptom disorder when full diagnostic criteria are met. DC 9422 is used when symptoms are clinically significant but do not meet all criteria for a specific somatic diagnosis, and the clinician specifies why. Both are rated under the same formula.
Are my physical symptoms real?
Yes. The physical symptoms are genuine. The diagnosis recognizes that the psychological distress and behavioral response to those symptoms is itself clinically significant and warrants evaluation.