Medical Records Guide for Your Evidence Review

Your records checklist

• VA medical records and relevant treatment notes
• Private medical records, test results and specialist reports
• Service treatment records and relevant service documents
• VA decision letters and current rating information, if available
• Separation documents such as your DD214, when requested

Ask the team which records are needed for your situation before sending files. Do not enter your Social Security number or medical history into the public inquiry form.

Where to find records

VA treatment records

Use the VA’s official records service to review available medical records and download information for your review.

Review medical records on VA.gov

Private care and service records

Contact the practice or records office that holds the file. Include relevant older records as well as recent care so the reviewer can understand the timeline.

See the VA’s evidence checklist

Before you send files

1. Check that pages are legible and complete.
2. Keep original copies for yourself.
3. Label files clearly with the record type and date range.
4. Follow the private records instructions the team provides after intake.

A complete file helps avoid delays. The review timing begins after we receive the records needed for the review.

Practical next-step guides

Prepare readable medical records PDFs · What to do after receiving your nexus letter

Nexus letters and DBQs answer different questions

A nexus letter explains a supported medical connection. A DBQ can document a condition’s symptoms and functional effects. Claim Launchers offers nexus letters, DBQs, physical telehealth evaluations and mental health evaluations. The appropriate service depends on your records, clinical findings and provider assessment.

DBQ availability and any separate fees are confirmed before you decide. Learn about DBQ support.