VA C&P Exams (Compensation & Pension)
A VA C&P (Compensation & Pension) Exam is a VA-requested medical evaluation used to collect objective medical information for a disability-related claim. The purpose of the exam is to document your symptoms, functional limitations, and relevant medical history in the format the VA requires.
Important: A C&P exam is an evaluation-only visit. It is not a treatment appointment and does not establish ongoing medical care. The examiner does not approve or deny claims — the VA makes all final decisions based on the full evidence in your file.
What to Expect During Your Exam
Your C&P evaluation may include:
- Review of relevant medical history and records (as available)
- Discussion of symptoms, flare-ups, and daily limitations
- A focused physical assessment related to the condition(s) being evaluated
- Completion of required VA documentation (as applicable)
Our goal is to provide a thorough, respectful, and objective evaluation in accordance with VA requirements.
How to Prepare for Your C&P Exam
To help your exam go smoothly:
- Arrive early so you’re not rushed.
- Think through your symptoms ahead of time:
- When they started
- How often they occur
- What makes them worse/better
- How they affect work, sleep, mobility, concentration, or daily activities
- Be honest and specific about your day-to-day function (good days and bad days).
- If you experience flare-ups, be ready to describe:
- How frequently they happen
- How long they last
- What you can’t do during a flare-up
Tip: It’s okay to write notes on your phone or on paper so you don’t forget key details.
What to Bring
Please bring:
- Photo ID
- List of current medications (name + dose, if possible)
- Any relevant medical records you have available (optional but helpful)
- Any support devices you regularly use (brace, cane, walker, etc.)
- Glasses/hearing aids if you use them
If you do not have records, you can still be evaluated — bring what you can.
Policies & Procedures
Evaluation-Only Policy (No Treatment)
C&P exams are for documentation and evaluation only. During this visit we do not:
- Provide treatment plans
- Prescribe medications
- Order labs or imaging for treatment purposes
- Serve as your primary care provider
Appointment Time & Check-In
- Please plan to arrive 10–15 minutes early (or be available early if remote instructions are provided).
- Late arrival may shorten the evaluation or require rescheduling to protect scheduled patients.
No-Show / Late Cancellation
- Missed appointments or last-minute cancellations can delay your evaluation timeline.
- If you need to reschedule, notify us as soon as possible.
Privacy & Documentation
- Your information is handled with privacy and professionalism.
- Findings are documented objectively and submitted according to the requested format.
Respectful Environment
We are committed to a professional, respectful, veteran-centered experience. Disruptive or unsafe behavior may result in the visit being ended and rescheduled.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Focus on:
- Symptoms and severity
- Frequency (how often it happens)
- Functional impact (how it affects your daily life and work)
- Flare-ups and limitations on bad days
After Your Exam
After your evaluation:
- Documentation is completed based on exam findings and required forms (as applicable)
- The VA will review all evidence in your file and determine next steps
- If the VA needs additional information, you may be contacted for follow-up through the appropriate channel
Schedule Your C&P Exam / Contact
If you have questions about appointment preparation, scheduling, or required documentation, contact us and we’ll guide you through next steps.
Disclaimer
Disclaimer: We are not the Department of Veterans Affairs. This evaluation is conducted for documentation purposes when requested and does not guarantee any claim outcome. All claim decisions are made by the VA.