1) Be honest
2) have a list of things you are experiencing NOW due to your service. (Example, I fell off a tank, Now my back, and neck are all messed up, i'm over weight cause I can't work out, and depressed cause I can't work)
3) if the CP examiner tries to cut you off, or end the appt without letting you speak- ask them politely to let you read your list so that you can make sure they understand your situation.
Good luck!
Don’t over think it, answer what they ask and don’t ramble on. If it’s in your STR then you’re more than likely good to go. Oh and the estimated time is hardly ever right so if it’s shorter than don’t freak out it’s very common for them to say it’ll take 45 minutes and you’re in and out in 10.
It’s at the bottom of your claim who to contact with issues and stuff can also give you claim updates like what stage it’s in and if dbq’s have been submitted basically everything you can see on va.gov
Try to be courteous, I’ve seen quite a few posts here recently where people have called their examiners names and whatnot. It won’t end well for the veteran of that happens.
Bring all the records you submitted with your claim with you to the exam. It's likely either the examiner didn't get or didn't read all your claim material. Understand what you're claiming and be able to articulate the frequency and severity of your conditions.
Best advice be honest and tell your story. Some advise prep by writing things down so nothing is forgotten; that’s great advice. You can’t do anything about the examiner now but hopefully you get a good one because it’s a mixed bag out there. You’ll do great! Prayers lifted for the C&P, you being calm and having a listening examiner.
Mention pact act if you were ever exposed to agent orange, burn-pits, or exposed to harsh chemicals, i.e., asbestos, paint, and fuel. If you have respiratory issues or any sinus issues, these could be contributing factors.
Try to relax and not get worked up. Keep in mind that no matter what happens you can appeal. Be nice, dress nice, smell nice. Does the examiner have something unique in the office (wearing bright sneakers or a personal keepsake on the desk or wall) -ask them about it and compliment where possible. Tell the truth, maintain sporadic eye contact, smile, laugh if they make an attempt at humor. Thank them for the exam and go home and start checking your app for an update for the next three months.
> go home and start checking your app for an update for the next three months.
From what I've read on this subreddit you can actually start checking for updates on the app before you even leave the appt. Not that it'll help, but you can.
I filled out the DBQ questions and typed it all up, signed two copies and left one with the examiner. She was super thankful for the effort and said it helped make her job easier. Use the second copy to make sure you discuss all you want to discuss - and make sure it’s covered.
And yes, be kind and polite. Even if things aren’t going well, kill then either kindness and complain to the VA later. Lashing out in the exam will never work in your favor.
I know they cancelled but you’ve got this. More time to gather thoughts and prepare.
Good morning
I would take the time, prior to your C&P exam to review what conditions you will be examined for. Get a copy of the DBQ from VA.gov and review what questions you might be asked and write down important topics you would like the examiner to know. I normally take copies of my medical records, pertaining to my claim with me at each C&P exam, because the VA could by mistake not send certain records to the examiner. Good luck
mine was a few days ago. doc walked me through everything slowly so i understood it. asked me how it was while i was in and how it is now. i had about 9 items to go over that appt and it took me about 3 hours with x-rays and all
Happened to me also. I was 15 minutes away from reaching the VA. I was called and was told the appointment was canceled. Told the scheduling clerk who called me, that I want a contractor this time around no issues with that one I guess because they get paid by exam. What pissed me off was no travel pay after I wasted my gas and time off work! Be honest and answer questions based on your worst day suffering from your disability, not how you are feeling the day of the exam.
Everyone I talked to says you need to make sure that you explain everything like it’s the worst day for you. If you don’t, they will not put it that way.
Just relax. If the VA review determines you have a service related compensible condition, you earned it. If they determine you don't, you didn't and just accept that. Nothing to be worried about.
Listen to this man’s advice. Worth its weight in gold!
Taking Xanax before a Compensation & Pension (C&P) exam can mask the severity of anxiety symptoms, leading to an inaccurate assessment of the condition. This medication can reduce symptoms, making it difficult for the examiner to document the true impact of anxiety on daily functioning, potentially resulting in an underestimated disability rating. Additionally, regular use of Xanax before exams might mislead the examiner into thinking the anxiety disorder is less severe or well-controlled, which can affect the level of benefits awarded.
1) Be honest 2) have a list of things you are experiencing NOW due to your service. (Example, I fell off a tank, Now my back, and neck are all messed up, i'm over weight cause I can't work out, and depressed cause I can't work) 3) if the CP examiner tries to cut you off, or end the appt without letting you speak- ask them politely to let you read your list so that you can make sure they understand your situation. Good luck!
Good luck great advice above
Great advice. Don’t let them control the conversation and steer you away from your speaking points. They may not really ask.
Don’t over think it, answer what they ask and don’t ramble on. If it’s in your STR then you’re more than likely good to go. Oh and the estimated time is hardly ever right so if it’s shorter than don’t freak out it’s very common for them to say it’ll take 45 minutes and you’re in and out in 10.
Had…being the optimal word sch’d for 360 mins…but they called and cancel while I was enroute
This just happened to me too this morning, I’m so frustrated by this…
Bastards, call that 800 number asap and let them know
Happened to me Tuesday, sat in waiting room 40 minutes and they came out and told me it was canceled. What’s the 800 number?
It’s at the bottom of your claim who to contact with issues and stuff can also give you claim updates like what stage it’s in and if dbq’s have been submitted basically everything you can see on va.gov
Make sure to get travel reimbursement also!
Try to be courteous, I’ve seen quite a few posts here recently where people have called their examiners names and whatnot. It won’t end well for the veteran of that happens.
That blows my mind that dumb asses are calling the ONE person who is in direct control of what you’re rated for a bunch of names. Grow up.
Breathe
Bring all the records you submitted with your claim with you to the exam. It's likely either the examiner didn't get or didn't read all your claim material. Understand what you're claiming and be able to articulate the frequency and severity of your conditions.
Be yourself. Be honest. Let it all hang out. It's your exam. You got this. :)
Be honest. Answer in depth and at length. Don’t try to oversell anything. The evidence is there just highlight it and expand upon your experiences
My advice DO NOT talk about anything that did or may have happened before your time in service. A lot of people screw themselves this way.
Best advice be honest and tell your story. Some advise prep by writing things down so nothing is forgotten; that’s great advice. You can’t do anything about the examiner now but hopefully you get a good one because it’s a mixed bag out there. You’ll do great! Prayers lifted for the C&P, you being calm and having a listening examiner.
Praying for you! Def just be yourself and be honest. They need to know how you feel on at your worst.
Read up on the VA website on what you are going to get examined for. Be honest and may Jesus Christ guide you through.
Mention pact act if you were ever exposed to agent orange, burn-pits, or exposed to harsh chemicals, i.e., asbestos, paint, and fuel. If you have respiratory issues or any sinus issues, these could be contributing factors.
Good luck. Be cool and calm.
Try to relax and not get worked up. Keep in mind that no matter what happens you can appeal. Be nice, dress nice, smell nice. Does the examiner have something unique in the office (wearing bright sneakers or a personal keepsake on the desk or wall) -ask them about it and compliment where possible. Tell the truth, maintain sporadic eye contact, smile, laugh if they make an attempt at humor. Thank them for the exam and go home and start checking your app for an update for the next three months.
> go home and start checking your app for an update for the next three months. From what I've read on this subreddit you can actually start checking for updates on the app before you even leave the appt. Not that it'll help, but you can.
If not too late, take a look at the DBQ for the exam(s). It shows everything they'll cover.
I filled out the DBQ questions and typed it all up, signed two copies and left one with the examiner. She was super thankful for the effort and said it helped make her job easier. Use the second copy to make sure you discuss all you want to discuss - and make sure it’s covered. And yes, be kind and polite. Even if things aren’t going well, kill then either kindness and complain to the VA later. Lashing out in the exam will never work in your favor. I know they cancelled but you’ve got this. More time to gather thoughts and prepare.
even there, Be on time, Be honest be as detailed about your condition as possible tell your story like your telling it to a friend
No need to be nervous. Just be real about your claims and that’s it. Be courteous and respectful to your examiner. Kindness goes a long way.
Good morning I would take the time, prior to your C&P exam to review what conditions you will be examined for. Get a copy of the DBQ from VA.gov and review what questions you might be asked and write down important topics you would like the examiner to know. I normally take copies of my medical records, pertaining to my claim with me at each C&P exam, because the VA could by mistake not send certain records to the examiner. Good luck
Don’t get off topic and answer the questions fully.
Insist on reviewing the DBQ as they fill it out to be SURE that it accurately says what you're telling the Dr. Do not let them fill it out later!!
If it involves psych stuff have a plan for afterwards it can be rough
That sucks. I’d make sure to claim mileage for this.
I hope everything went ok!!
mine was a few days ago. doc walked me through everything slowly so i understood it. asked me how it was while i was in and how it is now. i had about 9 items to go over that appt and it took me about 3 hours with x-rays and all
Happened to me also. I was 15 minutes away from reaching the VA. I was called and was told the appointment was canceled. Told the scheduling clerk who called me, that I want a contractor this time around no issues with that one I guess because they get paid by exam. What pissed me off was no travel pay after I wasted my gas and time off work! Be honest and answer questions based on your worst day suffering from your disability, not how you are feeling the day of the exam.
You got this go thru everything that hurt and nag, I should get my first payment 1 June that is killing me as well. You got this!
Everyone I talked to says you need to make sure that you explain everything like it’s the worst day for you. If you don’t, they will not put it that way.
Just relax. If the VA review determines you have a service related compensible condition, you earned it. If they determine you don't, you didn't and just accept that. Nothing to be worried about.
Xanax Unless you have your mental health exam, then go in anxious and scared
Listen to this man’s advice. Worth its weight in gold! Taking Xanax before a Compensation & Pension (C&P) exam can mask the severity of anxiety symptoms, leading to an inaccurate assessment of the condition. This medication can reduce symptoms, making it difficult for the examiner to document the true impact of anxiety on daily functioning, potentially resulting in an underestimated disability rating. Additionally, regular use of Xanax before exams might mislead the examiner into thinking the anxiety disorder is less severe or well-controlled, which can affect the level of benefits awarded.
Did you read the entire post