Six Tips For Establishing the Service Connection for Your Disability

Understanding Service Connection for VA Disability Claims

The VA won't determine the service connection of your disability for you. You need to have an idea of how your condition is related to your service. Here’s a breakdown of six tips:

1. Review Your Service Treatment Records: Your service treatment records are a vital resource. You may have experienced or been treated for ailments during service that seemed minor at the time but now significantly affect your health. For example, in a recent case of a veteran who had numerous viral infections during service, which later turned out to be precursors to an autoimmune disease. Such connections in your medical history can be pivotal for your claim.

2. Consider Potential Harmful Exposures: Reflect on your time in service and consider if you might have been exposed to harmful substances or environments. Sometimes, the connection isn't immediately obvious. Understanding the risks associated with your specific role can help make the connection clearer.

3. Look into Secondary Conditions: Your condition might not be directly related to your military service but could be connected secondarily to another service-related condition. For example, chronic pain from a service-connected back injury might lead to depression. Exploring various angles, such as secondary conditions, can broaden the scope of your claim.

4. Understand Presumptive Conditions: Certain conditions are presumed by the VA to be service-connected, given specific service requirements. These presumptive conditions, such as diabetes related to Agent Orange exposure, are supported by science and VA regulations. Familiarizing yourself with the list of presumptive conditions related to your period of service can simplify the connection process.

5. Consult a Physician: Your treating physician can be your ally. Ask if they see a possible connection between your condition and your service. Avoid hastily getting an online nexus opinion. Having your physician’s insights can provide a credible foundation for establishing the connection in your claim.

6. Seek Professional Help: Navigating VA disability claims can be intricate, and sometimes seeking the expertise of a VA accredited attorney or agent can be beneficial. With experience in handling thousands of cases, professionals like our team at Vet Law Office can think of connections you might not have considered and provide valuable guidance throughout your claim process.

By examining your service treatment records, considering possible exposures, understanding secondary and presumptive conditions, consulting with a physician, and potentially seeking professional help, you can significantly enhance the possibility of your claim being successfully linked to your military service.

Filing a VA disability claim might seem overwhelming, but with these tips, you can move forward with confidence. Remember, it's not just about having a disability; it’s about connecting that disability to your service to get the benefits you rightly deserve.

For more detailed guidance, Ed Farmer and his team at Vet Law Office are available to assist veterans in navigating their claims. Reach out for a free consultation here - https://calendly.com/vetlawoffice