VA News: How to Avoid DBQ Fraud and Scams

Due to the rise of Disability Benefits Questionnaires (DBQs) scams, VA wants to ensure Veterans—including those who choose to have their private health care provider complete a DBQ—are appropriately equipped with the information they need to submit DBQs successfully.

A DBQ is a streamlined medical examination form designed to collect medical evidence relevant to a claim for benefits. DBQs allow Veterans to submit medical evidence from their health care provider to support their claims for disability benefits. Veterans are entitled to a no-cost disability examination by VA if an examination is deemed necessary to decide the claim for benefits.

VA wants Veterans to be aware of individuals and companies marketing the service of completing DBQs. Don’t be fooled by companies advertising they have a special relationship with medical professionals and can guarantee the Veteran a benefits award. When a Veteran uses for-profit DBQ companies, the fees may be costly.

VHA and VA’s Contract Examination vendors reduce claims processing time by increasing access to examinations. A VA Claims Processor determines whether a compensation & pension (C&P) exam is needed. If needed, the Claims Processor will identify if the C&P exam will be performed by a VHA Examiner or VA Contract Examiner.

Before attending an examination and/or having a medical professional complete a DBQ, VA encourages Veterans to become familiar with the guidance below:

• VA values evidence from a Veteran’s private treatment provider(s) because they are familiar with the Veteran’s medical history, often over a long period of time.

• VHA and VA Contract Examiners are trained to conduct C&P disability examinations and there are no costs or hidden fees involved.

• A VA Claims Processor determines whether a C&P exam is needed. If needed, the Claims Processor will identify if the C&P exam will be performed by a VHA Examiner or Contract Examiner.

• The use of VHA Examiners and VA Contract Examination Vendors reduces claims processing time by increasing access to examinations.

• VA or a VA Contract Examiner will either mail a letter, email or call with appointment information. Prior to an exam, Veterans may contact VA or the VA Contract Examiner to confirm the exam date, time and location. If a scheduled exam date or time does not work, Veterans should immediately call the VA Medical Center or the number provided by the VA Contract Examiner.

• If a Veteran has any questions concerning their C&P exam or needs to reschedule an appointment(s), they can contact VA directly at 1-800-827-1000; a trained representative is available to answer questions.

Items To Consider When Providing DBQs:

• VA will not pay or reimburse any expenses or costs incurred in the process of completing and/or submitting DBQs completed by the Veteran’s health care provider. If Veterans choose to submit a DBQ from their non-VA treatment provider, VA may determine an additional disability examination may still be necessary to decide a benefits claim.

• All clinician information blocks at the bottom of the DBQs must be completed, signed and dated by the clinician completing the DBQ.

If a Veteran suspects they are a victim of fraud, they can visit the VA Office of Inspector General at www.vaoig.gov for more information. Veterans may also file a complaint with the Federal Trade Commission at reportfraud.ftc.gov.

For further information on VA & State benefits, contact:

Montgomery County Veterans Service at 936-539-7842

or via email [email protected], and on Facebook

at Montgomery County Veterans Service.