How to talk to your VA Doctor

HOW TO TALK TO YOUR DOCTOR

Veterans that are actively involved in their healthcare have a greater chance of approval; as an active member of your healthcare team, you should:

service-related incidents. Common physical issues include hearing loss, vision loss, burns, back and joint pain, or traumatic brain injury. Any physical injury can make it harder to cope; you may have to stop doing hobbies or sports or learn to do them differently. These challenges can affect you emotionally, too. If you believe your condition was caused or aggravated during your service, discuss these conditions with your Dr.; remember, you're your own best witness. Without medical evidence, the VA is clueless about what caused your medical conditions; if you believe it's crucial; speak up and discuss it., Your Dr. can help you establish a diagnosis for your condition by referring you to specialty clinics, labs, physical therapy, and testing.

Advocates Note:

The success of your VA disability claim is based on your participation; veterans who fail to follow up with their doctors have a complicated path to claim approval or increased benefits.

Notes:

Keep a Medical Journal
Write down your question before you attend an appointment.

In the past, the patient‐doctor relationship was one‐directional; the doctor typically took the lead, and the patient followed. Today, the association is a partnership. Taking an active role in your healthcare can help you get the best care possible from your doctor.

Experiencing a physical injury can be challenging for anyone. Whether you were wounded in combat, injured in a training exercise, or hurt while going about your daily life, dealing with pain and disability is complex and can sometimes be traumatic. Many types of physical injuries can result from combat or

The VA Disability Advocates Main Office is Located in Las Vegas, NV. We Represent Veterans throughout the United States. 702-209-5722