If you’ve filed a claim for VA disability benefits, you may be scheduled for a Compensation and Pension (C&P) exam. This medical exam is a crucial part of the VA’s decision-making process and can significantly impact whether your claim is approved — and at what rating.
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What Is a C&P Exam?
A C&P exam is not a typical medical appointment. It’s a VA-ordered evaluation conducted by a VA doctor or a contracted provider. The purpose isn’t to treat your condition — it’s to assess whether your medical condition is connected to your military service and how severe it is.
Depending on your claim, you may have one or multiple exams related to different conditions.
What Happens During the Exam?
Here's what to expect when you attend a C&P exam:
- Medical History Review: The examiner will ask questions about your symptoms, medical history, and how your condition affects your daily life and ability to work.
- Physical Exam: For physical conditions, the provider may perform mobility tests, check range of motion, or observe your pain level.
- Mental Health Evaluation: For PTSD, depression, or anxiety claims, expect in-depth questions about your thoughts, behaviors, emotional triggers, and history.
- No Treatment Is Provided: This is strictly an evaluation — the provider won’t diagnose new conditions or offer medical advice.
- They May Review Your Records: The examiner may reference your service and medical records to form an opinion on your condition’s origin and severity.
The exam may be brief or thorough, depending on the complexity of your condition and the quality of evidence in your file.
After the Exam: What to Know
- The examiner will not tell you the outcome of the exam or offer an opinion during the visit.
- A C&P exam report will be sent to a VA decision-maker who evaluates the findings along with your entire file.
- You can request a copy of the report from your VA regional office.
Tips for a Successful C&P Exam
- Be honest, not modest — clearly explain how your condition affects your daily life.
- Be specific — describe how often symptoms occur, their severity, and their impact on work or daily tasks.
- Bring a support person if it helps you feel more comfortable or if they can speak to how your condition affects you.
- Don’t exaggerate or downplay — just speak truthfully and consistently.
How Hogan Smith Can Help
At Hogan Smith, we know how critical a C&P exam is to your VA disability claim. We help you:
- Understand what to expect and prepare thoroughly for the exam
- Review your evidence to ensure it aligns with your symptoms and service connection
- Address negative or inaccurate exam results during the appeals process
- Represent you through every step, including hearings and additional evaluations
Contact Hogan Smith Today
If you have a C&P exam scheduled or believe the results of a past exam hurt your case, contact Hogan Smith for a free consultation. We’ll make sure you’re prepared and protected — so you get the benefits you’ve earned.
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