Image of stethoscope and military uniform
Noting the importance and intricacies of medical nexus letters is essential for your claim’s success. Let’s take a look at some frequently-asked questions about medical nexus letters.
When Do You Need a Nexus Letter for VA Claims?
Nexus letters are beneficial for most VA claims and appeals. Nexus letters will be most gainful when you’re filing or appealing a secondary service-connected claim (a new claim that’s related to a service-connected condition you have), and for any claims that aren’t covered by presumptive conditions.
Can You Win an Appeal Without a Medical Nexus Letter?
This is possible, but it may be harder. When an appeal is rejected, it’s often because it never clearly established the service connection to the current condition. A medical nexus letter doesn’t guarantee that you’ll win your appeal, but it can increase the chances of receiving a positive result.
When Should You Submit Your Nexus Letter?
You should submit your medical nexus letter with your initial VA claim. If you did not and your claim was denied, submit it with your appeal. If you’ve been denied benefits, getting in touch with us here at Veterans Claim Servants can help you file an effective appeal including your nexus letter.
Can I submit more than one letter?
The answer is yes. If you have multiple medical professionals who are familiar with your conditions, you can submit a letter from each of them. Multiple opinions will definitely strengthen your case, but are not always essential.
Which Claims Require a Nexus Letter?
All secondary conditions or conditions caused by military circumstances not included on the Presumptive List benefit from a Nexus Letter supporting the claim.
Legally, the VA is required to have clear and definite proof that a condition was caused by military service and no other cause before they can provide disability benefits. It is the veteran’s responsibility to provide that proof. No proof, no benefits. A Nexus Letter is a strong form of proof that can confirm a condition’s link to military service.
Secondary Conditions
The VA describes a secondary condition as any physical or psychological problem that is or was worsened by a service related disability. A Nexus Letter must clearly detail how the current condition was caused by the original.
Mental Disorders
In cases of mental disorders, a Nexus Letter can help connect the disorder to an event or circumstance related to military service that caused the disorder. It’s important to be able to show that the military service was the main cause of the disorder, and a clear nexus detailing the circumstances that triggered the symptoms will be crucial if minimal records exist of the condition during service.
Exposures
Also, Nexus Letters can be used for conditions that develop more than a year after separation but were caused by exposure to chemicals, noise, medical treatments, or other circumstances in the military. If a condition is on the Presumptive List (exposure to radiation, Agent Orange, Camp Lejeune water, etc.) or noted as a high probability the Noise Exposure Listing (for hearing loss and tinnitus), it is automatically considered service-connected. If not, it is the veterans job to prove the connection, and a Nexus Letter will greatly strengthen your case.
Let Us Help You Today.
Contact the Veterans Claim Servants team today to get you the benefit you deserve.
Comentários