But oftentimes, a treating doctor will have a better understanding of your conditions and the history behind them. When choosing a doctor to provide a nexus letter, start with the doctors that are currently treating you, or have recently been treating you. Failure to do this can result in the VA disregarding the doctor’s opinion. It is also important to note that a doctor should mention in their letter that they have reviewed the veteran’s entire file and medical records. Using other terms may lead the VA to misunderstand the opinion as not supporting service connection. In order to avoid a situation where the doctor applies the wrong standard, make sure the VA terminology is explained to them.įor example, the terms “more likely than not” should be used to express that there is a 50% likelihood that the veteran’s current disability is related to his service. Many doctors are not familiar with veterans law, the VA system, and VA standards instead, they are familiar with the concept of “medical certainty.” Medical certainty is a much higher standard than the VA requires. Terminology is very important in the nexus letter. Make sure to communicate with the doctor writing the nexus letter about all of the details the letter should include.Ī good nexus letter uses specific language, includes specific phrases, and ties the facts together to draw a conclusion about connection to service. What Should a Nexus Letter Include?ĭoctor’s opinions, especially in the form of a nexus letter, can be a very valuable tool in disability claims if they are done correctly. If done correctly, a doctor’s opinion can be very instrumental for a fully-developed VA claim. The nexus letter is especially important in cases where a veteran has not submitted any medical evidence in support of their claim, and then a C&P examiner concludes that there is no connection between the veteran’s disability and military service. However, it’s a good practice to submit a nexus letter earlier rather than later when claims are being processed.

Also, there is not a specific requirement of when a nexus letter can be submitted.Ī veteran can submit a nexus letter with their initial application for benefits, during the development of their claim, or after an adverse C&P Exam. It explains that the veteran’s current medical condition is related to their military service.Ī veteran is not required to submit a nexus letter in connection with their disability claim, but the nexus letter can sometimes make the difference between an award and a denial on VA disability claims.

Social Security Disability Benefits GuideĪ nexus letter is a document that a doctor, or other medical professional, prepares for a veteran.Blue Water Navy Vietnam Veterans Act Map.Individual Unemployability Rating Calculator.

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