How to Get and Read a C&P Exam Report
Request the completed C&P report from VA, then review the diagnosis, records considered, history, findings, functional effects, medical opinion, and rationale.
About this guide
Educational information only. Semper Guide is self-directed software, not a VA-accredited representative, law firm, claims agent, VSO, or medical provider. It does not submit claims or guarantee outcomes.
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Quick answer
The examiner usually cannot give you the report at the appointment. VA says you must request a copy of the final report. Depending on where and when the exam occurred, it may appear in VA health records or require a VBA personal-records request. The report is evidence; the decision letter explains how VA used it.
Ways to request itDetails
- Check whether a VA-conducted exam note appears in My HealtheVet on VA.gov after completion.
- Request compensation and pension records from the Veterans Benefits Administration using VA’s personal-records process.
- Ask a VA-accredited representative with claims-file access for assistance.
- Follow current VA instructions; contractor portals do not necessarily provide the final medical report.
Read the report in this orderDetails
- Identity, exam date, condition, and DBQ used.
- Records reviewed and the factual history recorded.
- Diagnosis and required testing.
- Condition-specific measurements, symptoms, and functional impact.
- Medical opinion conclusion, if requested.
- Rationale explaining why the examiner reached that conclusion.
Look for meaningful problemsDetails
- Wrong service dates, event, diagnosis, or treatment history.
- Failure to address a clearly raised causation or aggravation theory.
- Missing required measurements, testing, flare-up discussion, or functional information.
- A conclusion with no medical explanation.
- Internal contradictions or reliance on a fact the record disproves.
What not to doDetails
- Do not assume an unfavorable checkbox makes the whole report invalid.
- Do not argue about bedside manner when the actual concern is a missing medical analysis—document each issue separately.
- Do not submit an altered copy of the report.
- Do not wait past a decision-review deadline while trying to perfect a rebuttal.
Common questionsDetails
- Can I correct an error before the decision? — Submit accurate contrary evidence or a factual statement through an official channel; VA decides what development is needed.
- Is a short exam automatically inadequate? — No. Adequacy depends on substance and the question asked.
- What if I disagree medically? — A qualified clinician may address the specific findings and reasoning with supporting evidence.