When filing for VA disability compensation, VA may ask you to attend an examination as part of the claims process. Generally, the purpose of this examination is to determine if you claimed disability is service-connected; or alternatively, to determine if the severity of your current service-connected condition is worsening, static, or improving.
By Matthew J. Brown, Esq. VA-accredited attorney and partner at Wolf & Brown Law Offices
Overall, the C&P examination has become a mine field for Veterans. Here are some tips and tricks to help veterans prepare for their C&P examinations and improve their chances of a fair assessment:
Be Honest and Open
Always provide truthful and accurate information about your medical condition and its impact on your daily life. Exaggerating or downplaying symptoms can lead to an inaccurate assessment.
Gather and Organize Medical Records
Compile all relevant medical records, including treatment histories, diagnoses, and test results, to support your claim. Organize them in a clear and chronological manner to make it easy for the examiner to review.
Create a Symptom Diary
Document your symptoms, their severity, and how they affect your daily life in a diary leading up to the examination. This can provide valuable insight into the impact of your condition.
List Medications and Treatments
Prepare a list of all medications you are currently taking, as well as any past treatments or therapies related to your condition. Include the names of the medications, dosages, and how they affect you.
Bring a Witness
You have the option to bring a trusted friend or family member to the examination as a witness. They can provide additional information about your condition and how it affects you.
Be Punctual and Prepared
Arrive at the examination location well in advance to avoid unnecessary stress. Bring all necessary documents, including identification, medical records, and a list of questions or concerns.
Stay Calm and Composed
C&P examinations can be nerve-wracking, but it’s essential to stay calm and composed during the evaluation. Answer questions clearly and concisely.
Describe the Worst Days
When discussing your symptoms, focus on how your condition affects you on your worst days. This provides a more accurate representation of the impact of your disability.
Ask Questions
Don’t hesitate to ask the examiner for clarification if you don’t understand a question. It’s essential to ensure you provide accurate information.
Request a Copy of the Exam Report
After the examination, request a copy of the examiner’s report. Review it carefully to ensure it accurately reflects your condition and the information you provided.
Remember that C&P examinations are intended to provide an objective assessment of your condition. By being well-prepared, honest, and organized, you can increase your chances of a fair and accurate evaluation that supports your disability claim.
Relevant pages: NJ Vet-Wire; Veterans Disability