7 Things you need to know about C&P Exams

In a perfect world, Mustangs would get 40 mpg, Jennifer Lawrence would win every Oscar, and the New England Patriots would finish last in the AFC East every year. In my perfect world Veterans would automatically get VA Disability Compensation when they apply. However, our world is much more bureaucratic than that. Just like Ms. Lawrence getting snubbed for the “Best Supporting Actress” category, you’re going to have to go through a lot of disappointment to get what you deserve. One aspect Veterans have to go through is a Compensation and Pension Exam, which we will be discussing today. Here are 7 things you need to know about C&P Exams:

1. THEY ARE MANDATORY: If there is one thing that I would like to remind all Veterans of is the importance of attending a C&P Exam. I have seen far too many Vets get denied because they simply didn’t attend their exam. Find any way possible to attend this exam.
2. You will likely have more than one: Not only will you have an exam for each condition you file for but once the appeals process starts, you will likely have to go back again for the same condition. Often times Veterans have to have a C&P at every step in the process.
3. You’re probably going to be upset after the exam. We work with Veterans all of the time, and we have been doing this for a while, so we know what happens at the exams. Frequently we hear stories from our clients about how the doctor was rude, didn’t fully examine them or was just plain not interested in what you have to say. Not all VA examiners are like this, but some are, and that is why we are here. Because…
4. We can get you an Independent Exam to combat what the VA says. We have a network of doctors set up that can independently evaluate you and give their honest medical opinion regarding your claims. This is in turn submitted to the VA to support your claim.
5. You may not even be there: On occasion, your exam will simply consist of a doctor reviewing your files. This is often referred to as a “chart review.” While it is not always an ideal situation, it does not mean that you will get denied. Sometimes in-person exams are not necessary.
6. It may not be at the VA: it’s possible to have a C&P exam at a non-VA location. For instance, the Winston Salem VA will occasionally contract their exams out to an organization called QTC. These are treated just like a regular C&P except they are just performed elsewhere.
7. You may not even know about the exam: I’ve spoken to Veterans who have received notices in the mail to attend an exam a week after the appointment. If this occurs, or if you can’t attend on the date assigned, you can make arrangements to reschedule your exam.

After reading this list you may be thinking that C&P exams are difficult and confusing. You’re not wrong in that thought process. However, if you go to your exam, and don’t hold back on honesty, you’re exam will be just fine. If it’s not, we are here for you. If you would like to know more about what we can do for you or to discuss your claim, give me a call. 1-877-526-3457.

You also have the option of filling out this form so that I may call you.