Smr Necessary For Imo?

[kate7772]

I know it is necessary to have the term "at least as likely as not" in a nexus letter. Is it necessary to have the expert state that they have viewed the veteran's service medical records even if we are not claiming any evidence from that time? I would like to move forward with the IMO but it will likely take several months to obtain the SMR from VA.

Thanks,

Kate

[brokensoldier244th]

Yes, if you are using a civilian doctor they have to have viewed the SMR other wise there is no basis for their opinion with regard to service connection.

I know it is necessary to have the term "at least as likely as not" in a nexus letter. Is it necessary to have the expert state that they have viewed the veteran's service medical records even if we are not claiming any evidence from that time? I would like to move forward with the IMO but it will likely take several months to obtain the SMR from VA.

Thanks,

Kate

[kate7772]

<<Yes, if you are using a civilian doctor they have to have viewed the SMR other wise there is no basis for their opinion with regard to service connection.>>

We are not trying to link a connection to anything that would be in the medical record. We are trying to link to a condition that appeared years later as a result of the contaminated water at Camp Lejeune. We have the literature about the water problem. My husband has kidney disease which has as a possible cause, toxic chemicals found in that water. We have a medical expert that specializes in toxic chemicals that will research and do the nexus. He will review all my husband's civilian medical records in providing the link. My husband says the only time he used VA medical while in the service was to get the required shots.

So, does VA actually require the IMO provider to actually review the SMR, even though we are claiming no links to that time other than the water contamination?

Just hate to wait another two months or so to get the records if they are only used in support which they would be no use for.

[Navy04]

Kate,

is on the money.