Body system: Musculoskeletal SystemRegulation: 38 CFR § 4.71aDBQ: DBQ MUSC Amputations
Diagnostic Code 5147 covers loss of function or amputation of both your index finger and ring finger on the same hand. The VA rates this specific combination at 30%. This rating recognizes how losing these two particular fingers significantly impacts your hand function and grip strength for daily activities and work tasks.
Rating levels
- 40% — If you've lost your index and ring fingers on your dominant hand, you receive a 40% rating. On the non-dominant hand the same amputation rates at 30%. VA treats the hand you write with as your "major" (dominant) hand; the other is your "minor" (non-dominant) hand, and ratings are 10% lower because loss of function on the non-dominant side is considered less disabling.
- 30% — If you've lost your index and ring fingers on your non-dominant hand, you receive a 30% rating. On the dominant hand the same amputation rates at 40%. VA treats the hand you write with as your "major" (dominant) hand; the other is your "minor" (non-dominant) hand, and ratings are 10% lower because loss of function on the non-dominant side is considered less disabling.