How Do IME/IMOs work?

[glashutte]

I have done research and found sources such as Dr. Bash, Valor4vet, and other doctors to help veterans with IME/IMOs and DBQs. However do we veterans have to visit them in person? Or do we submit all of our medical records and xrays and tests and they diagnose virtually?

[pwrslm]

On 3/18/2018 at 10:40 AM, glashutte said:

This clears things up a lot, thank you. 

Do I need an IME or IMO for a condition that has already been diagnosed during service?

 

 

These were all diagnosed during service, but how does the VA know how to rate them? 

Do I have a civilian doctor fill out a DBQ? Or does the doctor at my C&P exam rate these? I'm lost at this point on what to do from here. 

1. Flat feet both feet

2. Shin splints both legs

3. GERD

4. Hemorrhoids

5. Joint pain in both knees

5. Lower back pain

The DBQ will indicate current conditions, and allow the MD to give raters enough info to properly rate the condition. Some things, like your pain in the back and knees, may need xray or MRI evidence as well for diagnosis which the MD doing the DBQ should request. If the condition was diagnosed in service, and you are w/in 1 year of discharge, then you dont need a medical opinion for service connection because then it is assumed. Your Civilian Dr can fill out the DBQ, as well as his NP if he uses them (Nurse Practitioner).