The Big Question?

[cvsp]

I have my original SMRs. After reading a post by purple in here, I went through and organized mine as they were a mess after being taken apart so many times for copying.

I am noticing that the copy that the VSO had made me is not that clear and out of skew as far as time-line. I also noticed that a couple of pages that I feel might be important are missing.

I am at this point thinking of either making another better copy or just handing the over the the dreaded VA as I honestly think getting the actual medical records into the c-file would benefit me. More so then the copy.

Obviously I would send them by registered mail or hand-carry them, but wanted other opinions before I do such.

I would obviously make a complete and good quality copy of them for myself.

[pacmanx1]

Hey it is up to you. You could make a good copy for yourself and send/take them the original or make and send/take them a copy and keep the original, I don't think it matters. when I requested a copy of my C-File way back in 1995 they sent me the originals but they do have a copy. I have some records they do not have but when I put in a claim I make sure I send them the evidence they need or tell them what doctor (s) have treated me and make them get the additional records and thank God so far it has been working out. Haven't won all my claims but they are getting better. Since you have been through this a while It may be in your best interest to take them a copy and get something in writing stating that they have received your SMRs.

Pete992

[cvsp]

Pete,

Thanks for the help. I do have a request through IRIS to see if the copy is there. I also have a copy of the C&P report where the doctor stated I provided her with a copy.

As I am sure you are aware that it is difficult to read some of the handwriting. Let alone on the ones that are one that that tissue paper stuff (and they are the worse to copy). My final ETS physical can barely be read when it is copied due to the faint hand writing.

I think I am going to make the best copy possible and then send in the originals registered mail.

Actually I am going to be more high tech then the VA and scan them and have them on the PC. That way if I scan them on my printer I can take my time and get it done write rather then doing it at Kinkos or such.

EVEN BETTER yet.

Send the originals in certified mail, then scan and copy the ones I have. I take the scanned file and place it on a website (I know enough to secure it). Then inform IRIS of the website URL. Have IRIS document the URL in the system. Then also inform IRIS that my medical records are available by email if requested.

Pretty sure they cannot get out of that one.

[john999]

Never send originals!

[purple]

Ditto. Never, ever send the originals....you will never see them again. Just make the best possible copy you can and send that.

[cvsp]

Well that settles that. I am not sending them in. I just need a way to get them organized when I copy them (all those little blood test reports and such)

I will try to make a better copy and if there is something that I cannot read on the copies I will make a note of it on the copy.

Edit:

Now that I think about it. I think I lost my head today. I previously sent in two copies, the VSO sent in one. Yet the VA still has no copy on file. Hopefully the one that I gave the doc will get into the file (she put it in there).

I again apoligize for thinking I could actually trust the VA.

Edited March 13, 2009 by cvsp

[livingrock21]

I have to agree with everyone else. Never, send the originals. Heck, I gave both DOD and VA(both wanted the originals) copys of my medical records and kept the originals for my self.