Medical Evidence in VA Claims

Although many factors are considered in the determination of eligibility for Veterans Administration (VA) benefits, one of the most important factors is assembly and production of the medical evidence.  Karen McIntyre, R.N., and a VA Accredited Agent has penned an excellent article regarding the importance of of medical evidence supporting VA claims. She writes:

In both service connected and non-service connected claims, the medical and mental condition of the veteran is crucial in the outcome of the claim. In service connected disability compensation claims, there are two routes to take; i.e. nexus or presumptive.

In nexus claims, the veteran (or survivor) must show a likely connection between the disability (or death) and military service.  In other words, does the disability (or did the death) have a connection in some way to military service and if so, how?  Proof of this rests in the medical evidence.

In presumptive claims, the claimant does not have to prove a nexus between military service and the condition (or death).  In these claims, only proof of the condition (or cause of death) during a statutory time frame and/or place of service must be shown.  These claims are much easier to win than nexus claims.

In both claims, the veteran's condition must be authenticated by a medical professional; ideally, by a private physician since many VA doctors are notorious for their lack of cooperation.  It is true that the VA will want their own doctors to exam the veteran filing a disability compensation claim, but the additional supporting evidence from the private sector can go a long way in winning a claim.

Since there are no official guidelines for doctors, Ms. McIntyre  suggests thati t may be beneficial for the claimant or his/her representative to seek medical assistance from a qualified registered nurse or other medical professional who fully understands not only diseases and conditions, but also the VA's interpretation of its unique and crucial forms.