VA Claim/DBQ Follow Up
Published May 16, 2020
Information found on VA website that previously listed DBQ's:
VBA has discontinued the use of public facing Disability Benefits Questionnaires (DBQs). Originally, public facing DBQs were designed to assist Veterans living overseas to obtain medical evidence in support of their benefit claims where limited options were available. Today, VA works with contracted providers in more than 30 foreign countries to conduct disability medical examinations.
M21 III.iv.3.A.3.a. Definition: DBQs
Disability benefit questionnaires (DBQs) are documents used to
Elicit medical information needed to make decisions on claims, and
Provide a standardized report format for medical examinations and opinions.
DBQs are designed for internal use by both VHA and contract examiners. The majority of DBQs are also approved for public use by private providers.
M21 III.iv.3.A.3.a. Definition: DBQs
Disability benefit questionnaires (DBQs) are documents used to
Elicit medical information needed to make decisions on claims, and
provide a standardized report format for medical examinations and opinions.
DBQs are designed for internal use by both VHA and contract examiners.
M21 I.1.C.3.c. Reviewing Evidence Before Determining an Examination Is Necessary
An examination or opinion is only necessary under 38 CFR 3.159(c)(4) when there is not sufficient medical evidence of record to make a decision on the claim.
38 CFR 3.326 similarly provides that an examination is authorized when medical evidence accompanying the claim is not adequate for rating purposes. To illustrate the principle, the regulation adds that a disability benefits questionnaire (DBQ), a private physician’s report, or private medical opinion can be used to decide a claim without an examination if adequate for rating purposes.
These provisions together mean that some review of the available medical evidence is required before deciding whether an examination or opinion is necessary.
This does not necessarily mean that all development must be completed before making the determination. However, if practical, delay making it until other relevant development is complete because the development may affect whether an examination is necessary.
Disclaimer: I am not an adviser. These videos are for educational purposes only. While it is possible to maximize your benefits, it’s solely your responsibility to become educated on the VA disability compensation claims process. It is imperative that you conduct your own research. I am merely sharing my opinion with no guarantee of any benefits.
Facebook Veteran’s Group
KMD89 VA Claims Instagram
KMD89 VA Claims Twitter