As a disabled veteran, you’re entitled to certain benefits through the VA. These benefits are designed to give you the money you need to live a comfortable life and focus on establishing your new normal after service. But the process can be difficult, and even if you follow the steps to a T, it can be overwhelming. You’ll need to advocate for yourself throughout the review period. Here are a few tips from an experienced Ohio veterans disability attorney to help you advocate for yourself from the beginning.
Get to Know the System
The better you understand the system, the easier it will be for you to navigate the disability benefits process. Take some time to get to know the claims process and familiarize yourself with the system, the people you’ll need to contact, and the types of information you’ll need to provide. This information is available on the VA’s website.
Document as Much as You Can
Advocating for yourself means knowing exactly how your disabilities impact your ability to live your life. But the VA likes to see proof of the extent of your disabilities when assessing your claim. Get in the habit of documenting everything you can about your condition, your symptoms, and the way your disability impacts your life and the activities you can perform. The more documentation you can submit when you file your claim or appeal their decision, the stronger your case will be.
Communicate Your Needs Clearly
When you speak with your medical care providers, do what you can to communicate your needs clearly and concisely. If you feel that you’re not being heard or your doctors are dismissing your concerns outright, be firm. Explain the situation again. Ask them to repeat back what you tell them. If they still refuse, make a note of their refusal and ask for a copy of their appointment notes showing their refusal to acknowledge your concerns. This can strengthen your case if you need to appeal the VA’s decision and may help you down the road if you need to pursue a malpractice lawsuit.
Get Help From an Ohio Veterans Disability Attorney
Advocating for yourself is essential, but part of that advocacy involves working with a legal expert who can represent your interests and hold the VA accountable for their actions when treating you and evaluating your disability claim. As soon as you start thinking about filing a disability claim, schedule a consultation with an Ohio veterans disability attorney. Be open and honest with them about your disability and your concerns. This will help them represent you to the best of their ability.
Get an Independent Medical Examination
You’re permitted to seek an independent medical examination to further show the extent of your disability, and doing so can be beneficial if your initial claim is denied or you feel that the disability rating is unfair. Your attorney can help you find an experienced independent physician who is familiar with VA disability claims.
Be Honest With Your Medical Care Team
During any exam, whether it’s with the VA medical care team or an independent physician, be open and honest about your condition. If you’re experiencing new symptoms or complications, communicate those immediately. The more you share with your care team, the more evidence you’ll have to strengthen your disability claim.
Let Veterans Law Attorneys Help
These tips should help you advocate for yourself with the VA as you file a disability claim, but working with an experienced Ohio veterans disability attorney can take the stress out of the process. At Veterans Law Attorneys, our team is here to help. Contact us today to schedule a free consultation.
