Sage-Tips

Why does the VA request an IMO?

In this case, the Board may request an independent medical opinion (IMO) from a doctor of a specialty that is relevant to the pending appeal. Importantly, these independent medical opinions are not examinations that a veteran must attend, but rather a review of the evidence currently of record.

Who is qualified to write a nexus letter?

To obtain a medical nexus letter, you need to request one from a qualified physician. Ideally, the physician you choose is a specialist in the field that encompasses your health condition.

How important is a nexus letter to the VA?

The Importance of the VA Nexus Letter A nexus letter provides a medical record review, medical evidence, and an expert medical opinion to explain whether a veteran’s injury, illness, or disability is potentially connected to their service.

What is pyramiding in VA disability?

Pyramiding is the VA term for rating the same disability – or same manifestation (i.e. symptom) of a disability – twice. The term comes from a federal law – “Avoidance of pyramiding” – that prohibits the practice in VA disability claims. The rule sounds simple enough, but disabilities can manifest in unusual ways.

How long does a VA medical opinion take?

After your claim exam We’ll review all the evidence in your file, assign your disability rating, and send you a decision notice (a letter letting you know your disability rating). Each claim is different, but it usually takes us about 3 to 4 months to process a claim from start to finish.

Can a veteran write his own nexus letter?

But veterans can find a medical expert to write a professional and persuasive nexus letter without having to pay up front, as long as they hire the right veterans’ disability law firm.

Can you write your own Nexus letter?

Private, non-VA doctors CAN complete nexus letters for a veterans’ claims for service connection. This includes private physicians and independent medical examiners.

Will my doctor write a nexus letter?

VA and VA-contracted doctors will likely provide a nexus opinion when completing a C&P examination with a veteran; however, they are less likely to write a nexus letter or provide any opinions outside of that context. They can, however, help veterans complete forms such as Disability Benefits Questionnaires.

Can a psychologist write a nexus letter?

Only a medical professional with the appropriate medical training should write a disability nexus letter. However, VA will find a disability nexus letter more persuasive if written by a doctor in the relevant specialty. For mental health disorders such as PTSD, a psychologist or psychiatrist would be ideal.

What is avoidance of pyramiding?

What is an IMO and how is it used?

An IMO is an Independent Medical Opinion. The opinion is usually a report that describes the experts review of pertinent records that include service and civilian medical records and any other records that may have an impact on the opinion. The IMO is based on records provided to the reviewer by the client.

What is an independent medical opinion (IMO)?

In this case, the Board may request an independent medical opinion (IMO) from a doctor of a specialty that is relevant to the pending appeal. Importantly, these independent medical opinions are not examinations that a veteran must attend, but rather a review of the evidence currently of record.

What is an IMO and Nexus letter?

An IMO is an Independent Medical Opinion. The opinion is usually a report that describes the experts review of pertinent records that include service and civilian medical records and any other records that may have an impact on the opinion. A Nexus Letter is similar to the IMO.

How to write an acceptable IMO for a VA disability claim?

To write an acceptable IMO is not a simple task. The physician must first understand the law that applies to the claim. The physician must know the details of how disabling conditions may affect the overall quality of life of the veteran patient.