DBQ form with application?

[glen ellen]

Do I take the DBQ form to my doctor to complete prior to filling out the application or will the VA send me to its own doctor?  I have been out for over 15 years and claiming for the first time a disability (shoulder) from a surgery I had while in the Navy.  

[Gastone]

Have you started the Claim on-line yet?

If your Shoulder Treatment and DX is in your Orthopedic Specialist's (Board Certified??) Treatment Notes, you really don't need  a DBQ. I would get copies of the Dr's Treatment Notes, scan & attach them to your FDC (Fully Developed Claim.) You should get a VA Shoulder C & P in a couple months.

You've been out 15 yrs and this is your 1st claim. Do you have copies of your SMR's verifying the Shoulder Injury and subsequent surgery? Whatever you might have evidence wise, scan and attach as Pdfs to your FDC.

Then, sit back & wait, let the VA do their magic act. You could spend your time, requesting on-line copies of your complete Mil record to include your SMR. You might want to review the 38 CFR 4 VA Ratings, for whatever type of Shoulder Injury and/or Secondary issues you have.

Semper Fi

[glen ellen]

Thank you for your response.

 

No, have not applied. I had a shoulder surgery while in the Navy for an injury while on active duty (all in record).  Recently the shoulder is dislocating often and I still do not have full range of motion.  After 15 years I decided to check with the VA to see what was available, and was told to apply for benefits - indicating if what I say is accurate, I should be entitled to compensation.  

 

Haven't been to a medical provider for my shoulder since I was in the military - when it dislocates (although it hurts like heck)- it usually pops back in within 10 minutes.  So should I go see a medical provider to get MRI (I have medical insurance)?