The VA has quietly decided that it will eliminate its in-house compensation and pension (C&P) examination program and begin outsourcing ALL of the exams. A C&P examination is critical to a VA case. For disability compensation, this exam helps VA determine if you have a disability related to your military service or if your condition should receive an increased rating due to it worsening. In the case of pension claims, the exam documents the level of your disability. (See the VA’s website for more information on C&Ps: https://www.benefits.va.gov/COMPENSATION/docs/claimexam-faq.pdf)
Lawmakers are very upset with this move, as the VA developed the plan without any notice to Congress. There are many problems with the VA’s plan to outsource all C&Ps. These problems include issues with oversight of the third party contractors, scheduling and canceling appointments, and competency and training regarding issues that are specific to Veterans, such as Gulf War Syndrome or military sexual trauma.
Gardberg and Kemmerly will continue to monitor this issue as it develops. This is not the first time there has been concern over third party contractors and C&P examinations. Our office is open for calls and online assistance and will continue to help our Veterans in any way possible. If you have a claim for disability and need assistance, please call our office and speak with one of our qualified Veterans’ Disability attorneys. Gardberg and Kemmerly is committed to helping injured and disabled Veterans obtain the benefits they deserve. If you need help with a disability claim, call the office at 251-343-1111 or 1-800-332-1529 for a free consultation. Gardberg and Kemmerly is proud to serve Veterans across the country from our home office in Mobile, Alabama.