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As a veteran navigating the complexities of the VA disability claims process, you may wonder whether the Department of Veterans Affairs (VA) still accepts Disability Benefits Questionnaires (DBQs) completed by private healthcare providers.

The short answer is yes, the VA does accept privately prepared DBQs, and they can play a pivotal role in getting your VA claim approved faster.

However, submitting a DBQ with your claim is not mandatory.

If the VA schedules you for a Compensation and Pension (C&P) exam, the C&P examiner will complete the DBQ specific to your condition during your exam.

Summary of Key Points

DBQs from Private Providers: Yes, the VA still accepts Disability Benefits Questionnaires (DBQs) completed by private healthcare providers, which can expedite the claim approval process.

Role of DBQs in VA Claims: DBQs capture critical medical details about a veteran’s conditions, allowing for a structured, efficient evaluation process that supports accurate VA disability ratings.

Optional Submission of a DBQ: Submitting a DBQ is not mandatory, but having one completed by a private provider can reduce the likelihood of additional VA-ordered exams.

Finding DBQ Providers Online: Veterans can locate private providers through online searches, read customer reviews for quality assurance, and benefit from shorter turnaround times and potentially fewer C&P exams.

VA DBQ Meaning: What are Disability Benefits Questionnaires (DBQs)

Disability Benefit Questionnaires (DBQs) are standardized VA forms designed to capture essential medical information about a veteran’s health conditions related to their VA disability compensation claims.

They provide a structured way for private healthcare providers to document the diagnosis, severity of symptoms, and impact of a veteran’s disability, facilitating a more efficient and accurate evaluation process.

While C&P examiners complete electronic versions of DBQs during C&P exams, private healthcare providers can also fill them out ahead of time, offering veterans greater flexibility in managing their claims.

Current List of VA DBQ Forms for Private Healthcare Providers

There are currently around 70 publicly available DBQs, including:

Separation Health Assessment DBQ

If filing a VA claim through the Benefits Delivery at Discharge (BDD) program or the Integrated Disability Evaluation System (IDES), you must complete the Separation Health Assessment DBQ – Part A.

Cardiovascular DBQs

Dental & Oral DBQ

Oral and Dental

Dermatological DBQs

Endocrinological DBQs

Ear, Nose, Throat DBQs

Gastrointestinal DBQs

Genitourinary DBQs

Gynecological DBQs

Hematologic & Lymphatic DBQs

Hematologic and Lymphatic Conditions, Including Leukemia

Infectious Diseases DBQs

Musculoskeletal DBQs

Neurological DBQs

Nutrition DBQ

Nutritional Deficiencies

Ophthalmological DBQ

Eye Conditions

Mental Health DBQs

Respiratory DBQs

Rheumatological DBQs

Spina Bifida DBQ (natural child of a Veteran exposed to herbicides)

Spina Bifida

The VA’s Stance on DBQs Completed by Private Providers

In March 2020, the VA removed public access to DBQ forms from its website, citing concerns about outdated information and misuse.

This decision led to confusion among veterans and advocates regarding the acceptance of DBQs completed by private providers.

However, the passage of the Johnny Isakson and David P. Roe, M.D. Veterans Health Care and Benefits Improvement Act of 2020 clarified this issue.

The Act mandates that the VA must accept DBQs completed by non-VA medical providers and consider them as part of the evidence when evaluating disability claims for benefits.

Benefits of Submitting a Private DBQ

There are several benefits of submitting a DBQ with your claim, including:

Timeliness: Obtaining a DBQ from a private provider can expedite the claims process, as it may reduce the need for additional VA examinations.

Comprehensive Documentation: Private providers familiar with your medical history can offer detailed insights into your condition, potentially leading to a more accurate disability rating.

Control Over the Process: Utilizing a private provider allows you to manage the scheduling and completion of the DBQ, providing greater autonomy in your claim.

Considerations When Using a Private DBQ

It’s important to consider several factors when deciding to get a DBQ for your VA claim:

Accuracy and Completeness: Ensure that your private healthcare provider thoroughly completes the DBQ, addressing all relevant sections and providing detailed information about your condition.

Current Forms: Use the most recent version of the DBQ form to prevent any issues with acceptance. Download the most current forms here.

Additional Examinations: Be aware that even with a completed DBQ from a private provider, the VA may still require a C&P exam to gather further information or clarify details.

Cost: Private healthcare providers don’t work for free. Their services for an appointment and completion of a DBQ are typically offered for a flat fee. Be sure to inquire about fees up-front.

Can My Own Doctor Fill Out a DBQ?

Yes, you can ask your own doctor to fill out a DBQ for you.

There are two huge benefits of getting your own primary care provider or other private doctor to help you with a DBQ:

A treating physician is generally more familiar with your medical history and their DBQ should have high probative value to support your VA claim.

You might be able to get your DBQ completed at no additional cost if handled in conjunction with an appointment you already have scheduled.

Can a VA Doctor Complete a DBQ?

Yes, VA doctors are allowed to fill out DBQs for veterans to support their VA disability claims for benefits.

According to VHA Directive 1134(2), VA doctors are authorized to assist veterans with completing medical forms, including DBQs, if requested.

However, there’s a significant difference between whether they can and whether they will.

In my experience, VA doctors are often reluctant to complete DBQs for a few reasons:

Administrative and Policy Pressures: Many VA doctors face high patient volumes and administrative tasks, which means completing a DBQ can add extra work. Though VHA Directive 1134(2) gives them the green light, it doesn’t require them to complete DBQs.

Conflicts and Independence Concerns: Some VA doctors may be concerned about a perceived conflict of interest, especially for conditions requiring detailed functional assessments. This reluctance often leads to veterans seeking private providers for their DBQs.

Fear of VA Claims-Related Complications: Some providers may fear that completing a DBQ could entangle them in the VA claims adjudication process, where they might be questioned or drawn into a claims dispute. The extra scrutiny can lead some VA doctors to steer clear of DBQ-related tasks.

Why Many Veterans Turn to Private Doctors for DBQs

Given the reluctance of many VA doctors to complete DBQs, many veterans seek out private healthcare providers.

Here’s why:

Quicker Turnaround Times for Completed DBQs: Private providers who specialize in DBQs are well-versed in the VA claims process and understand the importance of accuracy and speed. Their expertise can significantly expedite your claim, with some able to complete a DBQ within 48 hours of your appointment—helping to fast-track your path to benefits.

Medical Evidence Experts: Private providers who specialize in VA disability claims have a deep understanding of what the VA requires (and what they don’t). These experts know how to properly complete a DBQ, check all relevant boxes, and use precise language to strengthen VA disability claims.

Reduced Chance of a C&P Exam: A complete and thorough DBQ from a private doctor can sometimes eliminate the need for a VA-ordered C&P exam, speeding up your claim. However, you might still get a C&P exam, so you need to be educated and prepared for the big day.

How to Find Doctors Who Fill Out DBQs for Veterans (6-Step Process)

Here’s a step-by-step process to find private healthcare providers who fill out DBQs for veterans to support their VA disability claims:

Step #1: Search Online for “VA DBQ Providers”

Begin with a simple Google Search for “VA DBQ providers” or “doctors who complete DBQs for veterans.”

This will give you a solid list of providers offering DBQs to support VA disability claims.

Step #2: Read Customer Reviews and Testimonials

Research each doctor or company offering DBQ services.

Reviews and testimonials often provide valuable insights into the quality, accuracy, and turnaround time of their services.

Additionally, checking online forums like Quora and Reddit may offer candid feedback from other veterans about their experiences with these providers.

Step #3: Submit an Online Inquiry or Book a Free Consultation

Many providers offer free consultations or the option to submit an online inquiry before committing to any services.

This step helps you assess if the provider meets your specific needs.

It’s important to ask up-front about the DBQs that can be completed via telehealth appointment versus those that require an in-person evaluation.

For example, a DBQ for Migraines can be completed via telehealth whereas a DBQ for a Musculoskeletal Condition that requires a Range of Motion (ROM) exam must be completed in-person.

Step #4: Book Your Appointment

After selecting a provider, book your appointment and gather all relevant medical and military records for the doctor’s review.

Some providers may charge a records review fee to determine if they can assist you before proceeding with the DBQ completion.

Step #5: DBQ Review, Approval, and Delivery

A reputable provider will often provide a draft of the DBQ for your review before finalizing it.

Ensure that it accurately reflects your medical condition and any relevant service-related issues.

Step #6: Submit Your DBQ With Your VA Claim

Once you have reviewed and approved the DBQ, submit it along with your VA disability claim.

Ensure all supporting documents, such as your military medical records, VA medical records, private treatment records, Nexus Letters, and lay evidence are included at claim submission to strengthen your claim and increase the likelihood of VA claim success.

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About the Author

Brian Reese

Brian Reese is a world-renowned VA disability benefits expert and the #1 bestselling author of VA Claim Secrets and You Deserve It. Motivated by his own frustration with the VA claim process, Brian founded VA Claims Insider to help disabled veterans secure their VA disability compensation faster, regardless of their past struggles with the VA. Since 2013, he has positively impacted the lives of over 10 million military, veterans, and their families.

A former active-duty Air Force officer, Brian has extensive experience leading diverse teams in challenging international environments, including a combat tour in Afghanistan in 2011 supporting Operation ENDURING FREEDOM.

Brian is a Distinguished Graduate of Management from the United States Air Force Academy and earned his MBA from Oklahoma State University’s Spears School of Business, where he was a National Honor Scholar, ranking in the top 1% of his class.

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