Compensation & Pension (C&P) Examinations Guide
Overview
C&P exams are medical evaluations conducted to assist the VA in two primary areas:
Listen Up: This exam is NOT the time to be a hard-ass. You spent years saying "I'm fine, Sergeant" through gritted teeth. Stop. If it hurts, say it hurts. If today is a good day, tell them about your bad days. The examiner's report determines your rating—so drop the tough-guy act.
- Assessing disability severity (primary purpose)
- Determining service-connection status (secondary purpose)
These examinations may be conducted at VA facilities or through contracted providers including Veterans Evaluation Services (VES), Optum Health, Loyal Source, and Quality Timeliness Customer service (QTC).
Before Your Exam
Essential Preparations
- Update contact information: Keep your mailing address, email, and phone number current with the VA to avoid missing exam notifications
- Know your exam focus: If claiming multiple disabilities, understand that dental, mental health, TBI, vision, and hearing typically require separate exams
- Arrange transportation: Consider friends, family, public transit, Veteran Service Organizations, or VetRide if needed
- Complete paperwork: Fill out any forms sent beforehand
- Plan arrival: Leave early to avoid lateness; examiners may refuse to see tardy veterans
- Review relevant materials:
- Read the Disability Benefit Questionnaire (DBQ) for your condition
- Study the rating schedule for your claimed issues
Special Considerations for Pregnant Veterans
Contact the VA (1-800-827-1000) if your claim may require: - X-rays - Pulmonary function tests - Range of motion testing - Laboratory testing - Other procedures potentially affecting you or your unborn child
Mental and Emotional Preparation
Establish a safe plan for after the exam, particularly if discussing traumatic experiences. Have trusted support available if needed.
During Your Exam
Critical Guidelines
Be completely honest. Fraud is illegal. Examiners are experienced and will identify embellishment or malingering, which may result in claim denial.
For Physical Examinations
- Communicate when pain begins or intensifies during range of motion tests
- Stop movements if pain becomes excessive
- If experiencing a "good day," explain your limitations on worse days
- Avoid appearing to give insufficient effort—examiners may invalidate the exam
For Mental Health Claims
If today isn't your worst day, describe your most difficult mental health period from the past month to convey the severity of symptoms.
Addressing Impact
Communicate how your disability affects: - Social relationships - Work capacity - Daily functioning - Flare-up consequences
Don't rely on examiners to ask; volunteer this information proactively.
After Your Exam
Your primary responsibility concludes upon exam completion. Unless submitting additional evidence, the next step is waiting for a decision—typically weeks to months.
If Dissatisfied with Results
You may appeal within one year of the decision to avoid forfeiting back pay. Appeals are available if: - The VA denies service-connection - You disagree with the assigned rating
Reexaminations
Purpose and Frequency
Reexaminations assess current disability levels rather than service-connection. The VA currently designates most conditions as "static" (non-requiring reevaluation), but exceptions include: - Active cancer diagnoses - Conditions mandated by rating schedules or VA regulations
Finding Your Status
Check online to determine if your disabilities are designated as static.
Frequently Asked Questions
When will I be scheduled? "It's possible to be scheduled for an exam as early as two weeks! However, in some cases a Veteran may not be scheduled till several months have passed."
Can I bring someone with me? Yes, though the examiner may refuse. Companions shouldn't answer questions for you.
Is there a cost? No—C&P exams are provided at no cost to veterans.
Can I attend via telehealth? ACE exams (Acceptable Clinical Evidence) involve records review without your physical presence, though examiners may call for clarification.
What if I missed my appointment? Call to reschedule immediately. Failure to attend ordered exams may result in claim denial or rating reduction.
How long does an exam take? Duration varies from minutes to hours, depending on conditions being evaluated and whether the exam is initial or follow-up.
Will the VA pay mileage? Yes, for most veterans. Overseas veterans and active-duty service members are typically excluded.
How do I get my exam report? - VA-conducted exams: Available via Blue Button 30 days after finalization - Contractor exams: Request through your C-file - BDD claimants: May access via MHS Genesis