No, a VA doctor cannot write a Nexus letter for you when you are seeking compensation for health issues caused by military service. However, they may give a compensation and pension (C&P) exam to help you provide the proof you need for a disability claim.
Who Can Write a Nexus Letter?
While a U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs (VA) doctor cannot write a nexus letter, you can get one from another healthcare professional.
Most private and non-VA doctors can complete a Nexus letter to help you seek compensation. You may also get these services from medical examiners and physicians. However, you need to undergo various tests to show that each disability or injury you claim resulted from your military service.
What Does a Nexus Letter Include?
A typical Nexus letter includes various aspects to support your case. This document must contain well-researched information and enough proof written and signed by a doctor. One aspect a Nexus letter should include is a statement from your physician.
This confirms that the doctor reviewed your medical history using documents like military service treatment records and VA records.
Another item the Nexus letter should contain is supporting evidence. This may include a personal statement or a “buddy letter” with more details about your disability. More aspects the Nexus letter can include are:
- The rationale of the physician’s medical opinion
- A detailed review of all medical records related to your injury or disability
- Probability of service connection
Having a detailed Nexus letter can boost the chances of winning your case. Your doctor can include references to medical studies to support it. They may also add a firm conclusion indicating whether they believe your disability is highly or less likely a result of military service.
How Can You Get a Successful Nexus Letter?
A good Nexus letter should contain all the discussed elements and explain them concisely. When seeking this document, it is advisable to research doctors offering such services in your area. You should also opt for a physician specialized in your physical condition.
For example, if you seek benefits for post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD), get your Nexus letter from a licensed psychiatrist. On the other hand, if it is for a neurological disability, you should acquire the document from a facility offering radiology services.
What To Do if Your Disability Benefits Claim Is Denied
Sometimes, VA may deny your claim for disability benefits, or they might offer compensation that is not enough to cover all of your damages. In this situation, you can get a disability attorney to help you with a decision review process.
This procedure presents three options allowing you to dispute VA’s decision. These are:
Supplemental Claim
The first option allows you to support your first case with more evidence. For example, you may use this option if you have new medical records showing a connection between your injuries and military service.
Higher-Level Review
If you do not have new evidence, you may opt for the higher-level review option. This one allows you to request a senior VA official to investigate your case further using the provided evidence.
Board Appeal
If the initial VA decision or the one made after the decision review process is not satisfactory, you can still use the Board appeal option. Depending on the nature of your case, it is possible to ask for direct review based on the evidence you first submitted. Alternatively, you can submit more proof to a veteran’s law judge or ask for a hearing.
Can a Lawyer Help With the Decision Review Process?
Navigating the VA decision review process without legal help can be tricky for various reasons. First, you need to evaluate the most suitable option for your case. You must also present enough evidence and request the review within one year of the initial decision.
A disability lawyer may be able to help you avoid the hassle associated with these processes. First, they will review your case to identify loopholes in the initial claim, such as a poorly written Nexus letter, lack of evidence, and failing to back up the situation with proper medical records.
Once your attorney identifies issues that may have affected your claim, they will prepare for the review. The first step they may take is helping you get a C&P exam from VA. This document will simplify obtaining a Nexus opinion from your physician.
After that, your lawyer will determine the most suitable decision review option based on your specific case. The final process involves providing legal representation and ensuring you have the necessary evidence.
Contact a Veteran Disability Law Firm for a Case Analysis
Getting a Nexus letter can help you seek proper reimbursement for veteran disability. You can also request a review with the help of a disability lawyer if you disagree with the first decision.
For more information about VA disability laws, call today and receive a free case analysis.