What action steps should I take before filing my VA BDD Claim?
Bottom Line Upfront
The VA BDD Claim process is a very important step that careful attention must be given to. Below are some tips that you should consider:
- Prepare for your interview with the VA Military Service Coordinator Liaison (MSC)
- What you claim, how you claim it, and what you don’t claim can significantly impact the outcome of your VA claim.
- Make sure you title your claims accurately.
- Seek the assistance you need from a Veterans Service Officer (VSO) or a medical professional.
- Sign up for the free MEB Masterclass “The Common MEB Mistakes to Avoid.” Time Now!
Introduction
If you’re a service member undergoing a Med Board and looking to navigate the VA BDD claim process, you’ve come to the right place. In this blog post, we’ll guide you through key insights addressing the unique challenges and opportunities you may face during this process.
Unlock the Power of a VSO (Veterans Service Officer), but….
Your journey into the VA claims process starts with a crucial meeting with an MSC (Military Service Coordinator) liaison. But here’s the exciting part: You’re entitled to the support of a VSO (Veterans Service Officer), a resource many service members may not be aware of. This revelation is often a game-changer, as some might mistakenly believe they must rely solely on their MSC Liaison.
In addition to VSOs, you have the option to work with a VA-accredited professional, like a VA Credit Claims Agent or a private lawyer (at an additional cost). What’s essential here is not just understanding that help is available but also making an informed choice when selecting your advocate. Like any profession, there are outstanding VSOs, some who are average, and, unfortunately, a few who may not meet your expectations. Therefore, ensure you choose someone capable of efficiently guiding you through the VA claims process. NOTE: CHOOSE YOUR VSO WISELY! WATCH THIS VIDEO FOR MORE TIPS!
Leverage the Goldmine in Your Medical Records
Your VA claim’s foundation hinges on your medical records, serving as the essential repository of information necessary for constructing a compelling case. We highly advise a thorough examination of your medical records, painstakingly extracting the relevant details pivotal to substantiate your claim. Should you require assistance in this endeavor, please don’t hesitate to reach out to us.
A superb starting point is examining your “problems list” within your medical records. This comprehensive list compiles all your diagnoses. By dissecting these diagnoses, you can pinpoint the specific issues deserving recognition and attention in your VA claim. However, sometimes the problems list may not be updated. Review the “Previous Encounter” and “Clinical Notes” sections as well.
Mastering the Art of Crafting Your VA BDD Claim
A frequent stumbling block in the VA claims process arises from the challenge of effectively structuring your claim. The use of ambiguous and imprecise titles and descriptors, such as “left foot condition” or “right shoulder condition,” can present a substantial hurdle for examiners and raters when tasked with accurately assessing claims.
The solution? Familiarize yourself with CFR 38 Part 4, a pivotal reference that defines the precise diagnoses upon which your claim should be based. Instead of using broad, generalized titles, strive for precision by incorporating the exact diagnoses outlined in the CFR. This minor adjustment can significantly increase the odds of a successful claim.
Remember, VA examiners aren’t present to offer primary care diagnoses. Their role is to assess your condition from a VA perspective during a relatively brief examination. Hence, it’s imperative to equip the examiner with all the information they need to make an informed decision.
In Conclusion
As a service member navigating the VA claims process, your preparation for the interview with the MSC liaison is pivotal. What you claim, how you claim it, and what you omit from your claim can profoundly affect the outcome of your VA claim. Precise titling of your claims, choosing the right assistance, and grasping the CFR 38 diagnoses are pivotal steps for a stressless journey through the VA & DOD claims process.
This is your journey, and it’s vital to arm yourself with the knowledge and support necessary for a successful outcome. Should you have any questions, comments, or concerns, please feel free to reach out.
For our service members navigating a medical board, we recommend delving further into this subject by visiting our course page and enrolling in our complimentary MEB Masterclass, “The Common MEB Mistakes to Avoid.” This valuable resource will empower you with extra knowledge to make your VA claims journey even smoother and more successful. Your service is greatly appreciated, and we wish you the best of luck on your journey!