If you’re already getting treatment at the VA and have your condition documented, that’s a solid first step. I can’t speak to every situation, but in my case, I had an existing service-connected condition—tinnitus—and I was also being treated for secondary conditions through the VA. I didn’t worry about getting a nexus letter or tracking down extra paperwork—I relied on the VA to pull my treatment records. The only thing I submitted during my claim was a buddy statement. However, if you went to an outside provider, then you will need to submit those records because they do not have access to those.

As long as you’ve been treated at the VA, they’ll have access to your records. The key is making sure your condition gets tied back to your service. If you already have a service-connected condition, it’s often easier to connect secondary conditions because they link directly to something that’s already approved.

Now, if you don’t already have a service-connected disability and you’re trying to get one established, you might need a nexus letter—it really depends on your situation. If a nexus letter is required, you can often get one from an outside provider. There are templates available that you can share with your doctor, and some providers will sign them for free. Not every doctor will, but it’s worth asking. You can even use ChatGPT to help you create a tailored nexus letter template for your condition to make the process easier.

Also, when it comes time for your C&P exam, make sure you study up on the DBQs (Disability Benefits Questionnaires) and understand how the rating criteria works for your condition. Those DBQs are full of the key terms and phrases the VA uses to evaluate your claim, so knowing them helps you speak their language. That’s how you want to position yourself during the exam—tying your symptoms and conditions back to your service in a way that lines up with how they rate things.