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VA Rating Assistant

DC 7101 · 38 CFR 4.104

Hypertension C&P Exam Prep

To evaluate the current severity of hypertension under Diagnostic Code 7101, establish or confirm service connection, document blood pressure readings taken on at least two separate occasions, identify related complications, and assess functional impact on daily life and employment.

Format:
Interview + Physical
Typical duration:
30 minutes
DBQ form:
hypertension (hypertension)
Examiner:
Physician

What the examiner evaluates

  • Multiple blood pressure readings (typically two or three on same day) to capture diastolic and systolic values
  • Type of hypertension: standard hypertension vs. isolated systolic hypertension
  • Current medications required to control blood pressure and their adequacy
  • History and onset of hypertension relative to military service
  • Presence of hypertensive complications: hypertensive heart disease, renal disease, retinopathy, or stroke
  • Functional impact on work, physical activity, and daily living
  • Evidence of end-organ damage including cardiac, renal, ocular, and neurological systems
  • Whether diastolic pressure elevations occur episodically or persistently
  • Relationship to secondary conditions such as diabetes mellitus, sleep apnea, or PTSD

The exam will include a review of your claims file and medical records, a verbal history interview, and a physical examination including blood pressure measurement. Three sequential BP readings are typically taken. Arrive in a rested, calm state if possible, but report your typical daily readings accurately. The examiner may also document whether your hypertension requires medication, and how well it is controlled. Under 38 CFR DC 7101, hypertension is evaluated based on actual diastolic or systolic readings, not merely on whether it is 'controlled' with medication - controlled hypertension still warrants a rating.

Measurements and tests

Blood Pressure Measurement (Diastolic)

What it measures: The diastolic pressure (bottom number) reflects arterial pressure when the heart is at rest between beats. VA rating under DC 7101 is heavily driven by diastolic readings taken at the C&P exam.

What to expect: The examiner will take two or three sequential blood pressure readings, typically with a few minutes between each. Readings will be recorded as systolic over diastolic (e.g., 160/100). All three readings will be documented in the DBQ.

Critical thresholds

  • Diastolic 130 or more 60% rating - highest diastolic-based rating tier under DC 7101
  • Diastolic 120 or more 40% rating
  • Diastolic 110 or more, OR systolic 200 or more 20% rating
  • Diastolic 100 or more, OR systolic 160 or more, OR minimum medication required 10% rating
  • 100% rating Requires diastolic 130+ with severe symptoms or end-organ damage per schedular or extraschedular criteria - confirm with your VSO

Tips

  • Do not take medications that artificially lower your BP immediately before the exam unless medically required - you must take your medications as prescribed, but inform the examiner of what you are taking
  • Inform the examiner of your home blood pressure log showing typical readings, especially your worst readings
  • White coat hypertension (elevated readings in a clinical setting) is actually medically relevant for VA purposes - do not apologize for elevated readings at the exam
  • If readings taken that day are lower than your typical readings, explicitly tell the examiner your home readings are often higher
  • Ask the examiner to note all three readings individually in the DBQ, not just an average

Pain considerations: Not directly applicable for blood pressure measurement, but headaches, dizziness, chest pressure, and visual disturbances associated with high BP should be verbally reported during the exam.

Blood Pressure Measurement (Isolated Systolic Hypertension)

What it measures: Isolated systolic hypertension (ISH) is evaluated when the systolic reading (top number) is elevated while diastolic remains normal. VA rates ISH under DC 7101 as well, using systolic thresholds. Note: ISH caused by aortic insufficiency or hyperthyroidism is NOT rated separately under 7101 - it is rated as part of the causing condition.

What to expect: The examiner will document whether your hypertension is standard or isolated systolic type. The DBQ has a specific checkbox (field 51) to designate isolated systolic hypertension. Systolic readings of 160 or greater without significant diastolic elevation support a 10% rating; 200 or greater supports a 20% rating.

Critical thresholds

  • Systolic 200 or more 20% rating when diastolic is not elevated to a higher tier
  • Systolic 160 or more 10% rating when diastolic is below 100

Tips

  • If you have been diagnosed with isolated systolic hypertension by your treating physician, confirm this diagnosis is in your medical records before the exam
  • Clarify with the examiner if your hypertension type has ever changed or if both systolic and diastolic are elevated
  • Isolated systolic hypertension due to aortic insufficiency or hyperthyroidism is rated under the cause, not under 7101 - know your diagnosis

Pain considerations: Report any symptoms you experience during systolic spikes including headaches, visual changes, shortness of breath, or chest discomfort.

Medication Assessment

What it measures: The examiner documents whether you require continuous medication to maintain blood pressure at acceptable levels. Under DC 7101, requiring 'minimum medication' (one antihypertensive agent) supports a 10% rating even if BP appears controlled on that day.

What to expect: You will be asked to list all medications you take for hypertension including names, doses, and frequency. The examiner records this on the DBQ. If you take two or more medications or a maximum dose of one, this demonstrates severity beyond minimum medication.

Critical thresholds

  • Requires no medication Rating based solely on blood pressure readings
  • Requires minimum medication (one antihypertensive) Supports at least 10% rating regardless of current BP reading
  • Requires two or more medications or maximum doses Demonstrates poorly controlled or treatment-resistant hypertension; supports higher rating consideration or secondary condition claims

Tips

  • Bring a complete, current medication list with drug names, dosages, and prescribing frequency
  • Note any medications you have tried that were changed due to inadequate control or side effects
  • If you take antihypertensive medication AND your BP is still elevated, this is critical - tell the examiner clearly
  • Side effects from hypertension medications (fatigue, dizziness, sexual dysfunction, frequent urination) should be reported as they impact daily function

Pain considerations: Medication side effects that impair your ability to work, exercise, or function should be described in detail.

Rating criteria by percentage

10%

Diastolic pressure 100 or more; OR systolic pressure 160 or more; OR minimum medication required to control blood pressure.

Key symptoms

  • Diastolic BP consistently at or above 100 mmHg
  • Systolic BP consistently at or above 160 mmHg (isolated systolic)
  • Taking at least one antihypertensive medication daily
  • Occasional headaches or dizziness associated with elevated BP
  • BP controlled with single medication but still borderline elevated

From 38 CFR: DC 7101: Diastolic pressure predominantly 100 or more, OR systolic pressure predominantly 160 or more, OR the minimum medication required to control the diastolic pressure below 100.

20%

Diastolic pressure predominantly 110 or more; OR systolic pressure predominantly 200 or more.

Key symptoms

  • Diastolic BP consistently at or above 110 mmHg despite medication
  • Systolic BP consistently at or above 200 mmHg (isolated systolic hypertension)
  • Frequent headaches, visual disturbances, or epistaxis
  • Requiring multiple medications or dose escalation
  • Documented episodes of hypertensive urgency
  • Reduced exercise tolerance due to BP elevation

From 38 CFR: DC 7101: Diastolic pressure predominantly 110 or more, OR systolic pressure predominantly 200 or more.

40%

Diastolic pressure predominantly 120 or more.

Key symptoms

  • Diastolic BP consistently at or above 120 mmHg
  • Hypertensive urgency or emergency episodes
  • Requiring three or more antihypertensive agents
  • Significant functional limitations - difficulty with physical activity, work, or exertion
  • Severe headaches, blurred vision, or chest pain with BP spikes
  • Beginning signs of end-organ involvement (renal, cardiac, or retinal changes)

From 38 CFR: DC 7101: Diastolic pressure predominantly 120 or more.

60%

Diastolic pressure predominantly 130 or more.

Key symptoms

  • Diastolic BP consistently at or above 130 mmHg
  • Resistant hypertension despite maximum medical therapy
  • Severe functional impairment - unable to perform physical work or sustained activity
  • Documented hypertensive crises requiring emergency intervention
  • Significant end-organ damage beginning (renal insufficiency, left ventricular hypertrophy, retinal changes)
  • Severe symptoms: persistent severe headaches, vision changes, confusion, chest pain
  • Multiple hospitalizations or ER visits for hypertensive urgency/emergency

From 38 CFR: DC 7101: Diastolic pressure predominantly 130 or more.

100%

100% rating under DC 7101 is not explicitly defined by diastolic thresholds alone and typically requires evaluation of hypertensive heart disease (DC 7007) separately or extraschedular consideration. Review with your VSO for combined ratings or TDIU eligibility when hypertension and its complications together prevent substantially gainful employment.

Key symptoms

  • End-stage hypertensive complications: hypertensive heart failure, renal failure, stroke
  • Complete inability to work due to hypertension and related cardiovascular conditions
  • Persistent diastolic readings above 130 with end-organ failure
  • Requirement for ongoing inpatient or intensive outpatient management
  • TDIU may be warranted when hypertension plus related conditions prevent gainful employment

From 38 CFR: DC 7101 rating schedule lists 100% as an available rating; precise criteria require review with a VSO or accredited claims agent in context of total disability and end-organ damage under combined cardiovascular ratings.

Describing your symptoms accurately

Blood Pressure Readings and Patterns

How to describe it: Describe your blood pressure readings with specificity: what your typical home readings are, your worst recorded readings, how often you exceed key thresholds (100/110/120/130 diastolic), and whether your readings fluctuate. Bring a home BP log if available. State how many times per week or month your BP exceeds the relevant thresholds.

Example: On my worst days, my blood pressure spikes to 160/118 even after taking my medications. This happens at least two to three times per week, often triggered by stress or physical activity. My home monitor shows diastolic readings above 110 on most mornings.

Examiner listens for: The examiner is trying to determine whether your hypertension is 'predominantly' at a given level - not just occasionally. Consistent, documented evidence of readings at or above a threshold strengthens the case for that rating tier. The examiner will document the three readings taken that day, but your verbal history of typical readings is also documented.

Avoid: Do not say 'my blood pressure is under control' without clarifying that it is controlled with medication at a certain dose and that spikes still occur. Saying 'it's fine' or 'the medication helps' without describing residual elevations and symptoms may lead the examiner to underrate severity.

Symptoms Associated with Hypertension

How to describe it: Describe all physical symptoms you experience when your blood pressure is elevated or as a chronic result of hypertension. Be specific about frequency, severity, and duration. Common symptoms include headaches (location, intensity, frequency), dizziness or lightheadedness, visual disturbances, pounding or racing heartbeat, shortness of breath, nosebleeds, chest tightness or pressure, and fatigue.

Example: When my blood pressure spikes, I get a severe pressure headache at the back of my head and neck that lasts two to four hours. My vision gets blurry and I feel like my heart is pounding out of my chest. On those days I cannot concentrate on work, drive safely, or exercise. This happens approximately three to four times per week.

Examiner listens for: The examiner is assessing functional impact and severity of symptoms beyond just the numbers. Symptoms that interfere with work, sleep, physical activity, or daily functioning strengthen the documentation of severity. The DBQ field 422 specifically asks about the impact of hypertension on daily life.

Avoid: Do not minimize headaches as 'just stress headaches' if they occur with BP spikes. Do not omit visual symptoms, fatigue, or exercise intolerance. These symptoms directly support functional impairment documentation.

Medication Requirements and Side Effects

How to describe it: Accurately describe every medication you take for hypertension: name, dose, frequency, and how long you have been on it. Describe whether medications have been changed, increased, or added over time due to inadequate control. Also describe side effects that affect your daily functioning.

Example: I currently take lisinopril 40 mg daily and amlodipine 10 mg daily. My doctor added the second medication six months ago because my BP was not controlled on lisinopril alone. The amlodipine causes ankle swelling and fatigue that makes it hard to stand for long periods at work. Even with both medications, my morning readings are often still above 100 diastolic.

Examiner listens for: The examiner needs to document the minimum medication requirement (at least one medication supports a 10% floor rating), and whether medication alone adequately controls your BP. Two or more medications or maximum dosing demonstrates treatment resistance and greater severity.

Avoid: Do not forget to mention all blood pressure medications, including combination pills or diuretics. Do not omit side effects such as fatigue, dizziness, or swelling - these contribute to functional impairment documentation.

Functional Impact on Daily Life and Employment

How to describe it: Describe how your hypertension limits what you can do each day. Address physical exertion tolerance, ability to concentrate and work under stress, sleep quality, and any activities you have had to stop or reduce because of your condition. Be specific about work-related limitations.

Example: On bad days, I cannot perform any strenuous physical work because exertion causes my blood pressure to spike, triggering severe headaches and dizziness. I have had to take sick leave from work on average twice a month due to hypertensive symptoms. I can no longer exercise, lift heavy objects, or work in high-stress situations without triggering BP spikes that leave me incapacitated for hours.

Examiner listens for: The DBQ field 422 directly asks the examiner to describe the impact of hypertension on daily life. A detailed, accurate response here strengthens the overall rating and supports any TDIU or secondary claims. The examiner documents whether hypertension affects occupational and social functioning.

Avoid: Do not say 'it doesn't really affect me that much' if you have made any lifestyle changes, work accommodations, or have had any hospitalizations related to hypertension. Every limitation is relevant and should be reported accurately.

History and Onset Related to Service

How to describe it: Describe when your hypertension began, whether it was diagnosed during or after service, any in-service stressors, duties, or exposures that may have contributed (combat stress, sleep deprivation, occupational exposures, toxic exposures such as Agent Orange or burn pits), and how your condition has progressed over time since separation.

Example: My hypertension was first diagnosed during my second deployment. I was under constant combat stress, working 18-hour shifts with little sleep for months at a time. After separation, my BP remained elevated and has worsened steadily. My treating physician has noted that stress-related hypertension is consistent with my service history.

Examiner listens for: The examiner documents the history of onset and course of the condition in DBQ field 92. A clear nexus to service events (combat stress, occupational exposures, sleep disruption) is critical for service connection. The examiner may ask directly when hypertension was first diagnosed and by whom.

Avoid: Do not assume the examiner already knows your service history. Verbally confirm when symptoms began, any in-service treatment or diagnosis, and the continuous nature of the condition from service to present.

Common mistakes to avoid

Saying 'my blood pressure is controlled' without clarifying it requires medication to stay controlled

Why: The VA rates hypertension based on what readings are WITHOUT adequate control and on the medication required. A controlled reading on medication still warrants a rating - the rating is not reduced simply because medication is working.

Do this instead: Say: 'My blood pressure is partially controlled with [medication name and dose], but I still experience readings above [threshold] on a regular basis, and I require this medication continuously to maintain any control at all.'

Impact: 10%-20%

Failing to bring a home blood pressure log or documentation of typical readings

Why: Blood pressure can fluctuate, and the three readings taken at the C&P exam may not reflect your typical or worst readings. Without a home log, the examiner has only the exam-day readings, which may be artificially low due to rest or anxiety management.

Do this instead: Keep a home blood pressure log for at least 30 days before your exam, recording morning and evening readings. Bring the log to your exam and ask the examiner to review and document it. Highlight readings above critical thresholds.

Impact: 10%-60%

Not reporting symptoms such as headaches, dizziness, or visual changes because 'everyone gets headaches'

Why: Hypertension-related symptoms directly support functional impairment documentation in the DBQ. The examiner asks about signs and symptoms (DBQ field RG_4A) and their impact on daily life (DBQ field 422). Omitting symptoms leaves the record incomplete.

Do this instead: Report all symptoms that occur in association with elevated BP readings, including headaches, visual disturbances, dizziness, pounding heartbeat, shortness of breath, and fatigue. Give frequency, duration, and severity for each.

Impact: 10%-60%

Failing to mention all antihypertensive medications including combination pills and diuretics

Why: The number and type of medications required is a direct rating factor under DC 7101. Minimum medication supports a 10% rating. Two or more medications demonstrates treatment resistance. Omitting any medication understates the severity of your condition.

Do this instead: Bring a complete current medication list. Include every blood pressure medication by name, dose, and frequency. Mention medications that were changed or added over time and the reason for each change.

Impact: 10%-40%

Not requesting that the examiner document all three individual blood pressure readings separately

Why: VA adjudicators look at the DBQ readings to assess whether BP is 'predominantly' at a given threshold. If only an average or one reading is recorded, important high readings may be lost. All readings should be individually documented.

Do this instead: After readings are taken, politely confirm: 'Will you be recording all three readings separately in the form?' This is your right and ensures the most accurate and complete record.

Impact: 10%-60%

Not reporting end-organ complications or related conditions diagnosed by treating physicians

Why: Hypertensive complications such as left ventricular hypertrophy, chronic kidney disease, hypertensive retinopathy, or stroke may be separately ratable or may support a higher combined rating. Failing to mention them means the examiner may not document them, losing potential additional ratings.

Do this instead: Inform the examiner of every condition your doctor has linked to your hypertension, including heart enlargement, kidney function changes, eye changes, or any strokes or TIAs. These may be rated under separate diagnostic codes (e.g., DC 7007 for hypertensive heart disease) in addition to DC 7101.

Impact: 20%-100%

Confusing hypertension (DC 7101) with hypertensive heart disease (DC 7007) and assuming they cannot both be rated

Why: Per 38 CFR Note (3) under DC 7101, hypertension is evaluated SEPARATELY from hypertensive heart disease and other types of heart disease. A veteran can receive ratings under both DC 7101 and DC 7007 if both conditions are independently documented.

Do this instead: If your treating physician has diagnosed you with hypertensive heart disease, left ventricular hypertrophy, or heart failure related to hypertension, claim that condition separately under DC 7007 in addition to your DC 7101 claim for hypertension.

Impact: 10%-100%

Prep checklist

  • critical

    Compile a 30-day home blood pressure log

    Record blood pressure morning and evening for at least 30 days before your exam. Note readings above 100, 110, 120, and 130 diastolic. Include dates, times, position (sitting/standing), and any symptoms that occurred with elevated readings. Bring the physical log or a printed summary to your exam.

    before exam

  • critical

    Create a complete current medication list

    Write down every antihypertensive medication including name (generic and brand), dosage in milligrams, how many times per day, and how long you have been on each. Note any medications that were changed or added because BP was not controlled, and any side effects you experience.

    before exam

  • critical

    Gather all medical records related to hypertension diagnosis and treatment

    Collect service treatment records showing any in-service blood pressure documentation, post-service medical records showing initial diagnosis, and all records of treatment changes or complications. Submit these to VA before your exam if not already in your claims file. Confirm with your VSO that records are in the claims file.

    before exam

  • critical

    Document all symptoms with frequency and severity

    Write a personal symptom statement describing headaches, dizziness, visual disturbances, shortness of breath, chest discomfort, fatigue, and any other symptoms. For each, note: how often it occurs, how long it lasts, how severe it is on a scale of 1-10, and how it affects your ability to work or function. Bring this written statement to the exam.

    before exam

  • critical

    Review your service history for nexus to hypertension

    Identify specific service events, duties, or exposures that may have caused or contributed to your hypertension. This includes combat stress, sleep deprivation, occupational stressors, Agent Orange/burn pit exposure, or PTSD. If hypertension is claimed as secondary to another service-connected condition (e.g., PTSD, sleep apnea, diabetes), prepare to clearly state that relationship.

    before exam

  • recommended

    Consult with a VSO or accredited claims agent

    Review your claim with a Veterans Service Organization (VSO) representative or accredited claims agent before your exam. They can help you identify secondary conditions to claim, confirm your records are complete, and advise on the rating criteria thresholds you should be aware of for DC 7101.

    before exam

  • recommended

    Research related conditions for potential secondary claims

    If you have been diagnosed with hypertensive heart disease (DC 7007), chronic kidney disease, stroke, or hypertensive retinopathy that is related to your hypertension, consider filing secondary claims for those conditions. These are rated separately from DC 7101 and can significantly increase your combined rating.

    before exam

  • optional

    Check your state's laws on recording C&P examinations

    In many states, veterans have the right to record their C&P examination. Research whether your state is a one-party or two-party consent state, and confirm with your VSO or accredited agent. If recording is permitted, bring a recording device and inform the examiner at the start of the exam.

    before exam

  • critical

    Take all prescribed medications as directed - do not skip doses

    Never skip or alter your blood pressure medications before the exam. The VA rates hypertension based on your condition requiring medication, not on unmedicated readings. Skipping medications could be medically dangerous and would not accurately represent your true condition.

    day of

  • recommended

    Avoid excessive caffeine or strenuous activity in the two hours before your exam

    While you should not alter your medical regimen, avoid activities that could temporarily artificially elevate or suppress your blood pressure (e.g., vigorous exercise, large amounts of caffeine). Your goal is to present your typical, representative blood pressure - not your best possible reading.

    day of

  • critical

    Arrive with all prepared documents

    Bring your home BP log, medication list, symptom statement, and any relevant medical records. Organize these so you can reference them quickly during the exam. Offer them to the examiner and ask that they be reviewed and referenced in the DBQ.

    day of

  • optional

    Arrive early and rest quietly before the exam if possible

    Arriving 15-20 minutes early and sitting quietly can help normalize your blood pressure to a typical resting level. However, if your BP is naturally elevated at rest, this is an accurate representation of your condition.

    day of

  • critical

    Request that all three blood pressure readings be individually documented

    After readings are taken, politely confirm with the examiner that all three readings will be individually documented in the DBQ rather than averaged. If the examiner states they will only record one or an average, note this concern and document it in your post-exam notes.

    during exam

  • critical

    Report your typical home blood pressure readings, especially your worst readings

    If the readings taken at the exam are lower than your typical readings, immediately inform the examiner. State: 'My home readings are typically higher. My log shows readings of [X/Y] on [frequency]. I believe today's readings may not reflect my typical blood pressure.' Ask the examiner to note your typical readings in the DBQ history section.

    during exam

  • critical

    Describe all symptoms associated with your hypertension, using your prepared symptom statement

    When asked about symptoms, refer to your prepared statement and describe each symptom with frequency, severity, and functional impact. Do not minimize or generalize. Report headaches, dizziness, visual changes, shortness of breath, chest discomfort, fatigue, and any functional limitations.

    during exam

  • critical

    Clearly describe the impact of hypertension on your daily life and work

    When asked about functional impact (the examiner will ask about this for DBQ field 422), describe specific limitations: activities you cannot do, work restrictions, sick days taken, hospitalizations, and any lifestyle changes made due to hypertension. Be specific and factual.

    during exam

  • recommended

    Mention all related diagnosed complications

    If you have been diagnosed with hypertensive heart disease, left ventricular hypertrophy, renal insufficiency, hypertensive retinopathy, or have had a stroke or TIA, mention these conditions to the examiner. Ask whether they will be documented in the DBQ. These may support separate claims under DC 7007 or other codes.

    during exam

  • critical

    Write detailed notes immediately after the exam

    As soon as possible after leaving the exam, write down everything discussed: what the examiner asked, what readings were taken, what you reported, and any concerns you have about whether the exam was adequate. Include the examiner's name and the facility. These notes can be critical if you need to submit a buddy statement, seek a second opinion, or challenge an inadequate exam.

    after exam

  • recommended

    Request a copy of your completed DBQ

    You are entitled to receive a copy of your completed DBQ. Request it from VA or your VSO. Review it carefully to ensure all blood pressure readings, medications, symptoms, and functional impacts were accurately documented. If there are significant inaccuracies or omissions, notify your VSO immediately.

    after exam

  • recommended

    Consider submitting a personal statement or buddy statement if the exam was inadequate

    If you feel important information was not captured during the exam - such as typical BP readings being higher than exam-day readings - you can submit a personal statement (VA Form 21-4138) or a buddy statement from someone who has witnessed your symptoms. Your VSO can help you draft and submit this.

    after exam

Your rights during a C&P exam

  • You have the right to receive adequate notice of your C&P examination appointment and to reschedule for good cause - missing the exam without good cause can result in claim denial.
  • You have the right to have your complete claims file, including service records and medical evidence, reviewed by the examiner before or during the exam. Ask the examiner to confirm they have reviewed your records.
  • In most states, you have the right to record your C&P examination. Check your state's consent laws beforehand. You may also bring a witness such as a VSO representative or family member to accompany you.
  • You have the right to a thorough, adequate examination. An inadequate exam - one that fails to address all relevant DBQ sections, does not take multiple blood pressure readings, or does not document functional impact - can be challenged through a Notice of Disagreement or by requesting a new exam.
  • You have the right to submit additional evidence after your C&P exam, including home blood pressure logs, treating physician statements, buddy statements, and private medical opinions. The VA must consider all evidence of record.
  • You have the right to obtain an Independent Medical Opinion (IMO) or Nexus Letter from a private physician if you disagree with the examiner's conclusions. A well-supported IMO can overcome an unfavorable C&P opinion.
  • Controlled hypertension is still ratable under DC 7101. If your blood pressure is controlled with medication, you retain the right to a rating based on the minimum medication required to maintain control - a controlled reading does not mean a 0% rating.
  • Hypertension is rated separately from hypertensive heart disease (DC 7007) under 38 CFR Note (3). You have the right to pursue ratings under both diagnostic codes if you have been diagnosed with both conditions.
  • You have the right to request a higher-level review (HLR) or file a Board of Veterans' Appeals (BVA) appeal if you disagree with the rating decision following your C&P exam.
  • You have the right to have your claim evaluated under the benefit of the doubt standard: when there is an approximate balance of positive and negative evidence, VA must resolve the doubt in your favor under 38 CFR 3.102.

Related conditions

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This C&P exam preparation guide is for educational purposes only and does not constitute legal, medical, or claims advice. Always consult with a qualified Veterans Service Organization (VSO) representative or VA-accredited attorney for guidance specific to your claim. Never exaggerate, minimize, or fabricate symptoms during a C&P examination.