Gathering Strong Medical Evidence

Master the art of collecting and organizing medical evidence that will support your VA disability claim and lead to a higher rating. Learn what evidence the VA needs and how to present it effectively.

Quick Navigation

1. Understand What the VA Needs
2. Request Your Service Medical Records
3. Gather Private Medical Records
4. Obtain a Nexus Letter
5. Collect Buddy Statements
6. Organize Your Evidence

Step 1: Understand What the VA Needs

The VA requires three elements: a current diagnosis, evidence of an in-service event/injury, and a medical nexus linking them. Strong evidence addresses all three of these requirements clearly.

Tips for Success

• Current diagnosis from a licensed medical professional
• Service treatment records or incident reports
• Medical opinion stating the condition is 'at least as likely as not' service-connected

Step 2: Request Your Service Medical Records

Get your complete service medical records from the National Personnel Records Center (NPRC). These are critical for establishing in-service events and are often the strongest evidence available.

Tips for Success

• Use Standard Form 180 to request records
• Allow 6-8 weeks for processing
• Request both service medical and personnel records

Step 3: Gather Private Medical Records

Collect all relevant medical records from private doctors, hospitals, and specialists who have treated your conditions since service.

Tips for Success

• Request complete medical records, not just visit summaries
• Get records from all providers who've treated the condition
• Look for diagnostic test results, imaging, and specialist reports

Step 4: Obtain a Nexus Letter

Get a detailed medical opinion from a qualified doctor explaining how your current condition is related to your military service. This is often the single most important document in your claim.

Tips for Success

• The doctor should review all your medical records
• Letter should use the phrase 'at least as likely as not'
• Include citations to medical literature when possible
• Independent Medical Examiners (IMEs) often provide stronger opinions

Step 5: Collect Buddy Statements

Get written statements from fellow service members, family, or friends who can verify your in-service injury or your condition's progression.

Tips for Success

• Use VA Form 21-10210 (Lay/Witness Statement)
• Ask for specific examples and dates if possible
• Buddy statements are especially valuable when service records are incomplete

Step 6: Organize Your Evidence

Create a clear, organized evidence package. Label everything clearly and create a cover sheet listing all included documents.

Tips for Success

• Organize chronologically or by condition
• Highlight key passages that support your claim
• Create a table of contents for large evidence packages
• Keep copies of everything you submit

Helpful Resources

• NPRC Records Request
• VA Form 21-10210
• Evidence Strategy Help