How to Obtain a Nexus Letter for Toxic Exposure-Related Health Issues

The process of navigating VA disability benefits can be complicated under the best of circumstances. If you are living with a chronic condition due to prior exposure to toxic material, securing the benefits you deserve can be even more difficult. Getting the most out of your claim might require a strong nexus letter written by a seasoned medical professional.

These letters establish the direct link between your condition and a toxic exposure event that occurred during your military service. There is no question these letters are important, but obtaining them might not be as simple as it seems. See our following guide on how to obtain a nexus letter for toxic exposure-related health issues.

Can a Nexus Letter Prove Toxic Exposure in a VA Disability Claim?

There are three important elements to any successful VA disability claim. First, you will need to establish that you have a current diagnosis of a disabling illness or injury. It Is not enough to have symptoms of a disease or believe that you are living with one. A licensed physician must diagnose you with a disability, and there needs to be documentation to prove it.

Second, you will also need to be able to highlight an event during your military service that could have caused that disability. This service includes active duty, active duty for training, and inactive duty. In these cases, the event generally involves exposure to harmful chemicals like tainted drinking water or toxic burn pits. You will also only qualify for benefits if you have something besides an other than dishonorable discharge.

Finally, you must be able to prove the link between your disability and the toxic exposure you experienced in the military. This is known as the nexus, and it can be the most challenging aspect of a VA disability claim. Proving this element often requires something known as a nexus letter.

Do I Need a Nexus Letter for a Toxic Exposure-Related Health Issue?

In many cases, a strong nexus letter is the most important piece of evidence in a toxic exposure claim. Unlike an injury that occurs in combat or during training, it is not always easy to identify the exact moment that a disease develops. There can be multiple causes for these conditions, and the VA might not be willing to accept that your disability is directly related to an event that occurred during your service.

A nexus letter can help prove this element of your claim by relying on medical research and expert opinion. Each letter includes a review of your medical history. They also include references to medical journals and scholarly research that can help make the case that your condition is service-connected. Finally, a strong letter will include a conclusion that your disability is as likely as not related to toxic exposure from your military career.

There are some limited situations where a nexus letter may not be necessary in toxic exposure cases. The VA presumes a service connection in cases where veterans have a specific illness and also served at a time and place where they encountered known hazards that can cause these illnesses.

Presumptions only apply in very limited situations, like Vietnam veterans who were likely exposed to Agent Orange in combat. At Elite Medical Review Associates, we can help you determine if you qualify.

Who Can Write a Nexus Letter?

There are several parties that could author a nexus letter in a toxic exposure case. Any physician licensed in the United States may contribute one. In fact, other medical professionals besides doctors can also write a letter on your behalf. This includes physician assistants, nurse practitioners, and even chiropractors.

The important question is whether or not these professionals have experience treating diseases linked to toxic exposure. Their resume is important when it comes to determining how much weight to give their opinion.

Can a VA Doctor Write a Letter on My Behalf?

Many veterans seek primary medical care from doctors hired or contracted by the VA, so it seems like a natural fit to have them write a letter on their behalf. In reality, VA doctors will generally not agree to author a nexus letter. They are not prohibited from doing so, but the VA generally discourages them from offering medical opinions in disability cases. Instead, the VA prefers that veterans rely on the outcome of a C & P exam. Unfortunately, these exams are not always helpful or thorough enough to establish a service connection.

Can My Private Physician Write My Letter?

Private physicians can write a nexus letter on your behalf. However, many veterans have come to learn that obtaining one can be easier said than done. This is because a large number of doctors are unwilling or unable to take on this task.

Some doctors are simply unwilling to assist in the VA claims process. They may prefer to focus their time on their patients, or they are unfamiliar with how the VA system operates. Others might be prohibited from giving a medical opinion by the medical group or hospital they work for. The good news is that Elite Medical Review Associates can help.

Let Elite Medical Review Associates Help

You should never have to face the disability claims process on your own. With the help of Elite Medical Review Associates, you can connect with a doctor or other professional that is perfect for your case.

A strong nexus letter can go a long way towards helping you get the benefits you deserve. We understand the stress that can come with this process, especially while living with a disabling illness. Contact us as soon as possible for help with proving toxic exposure in your VA disability claim.