What Is a C&P Exam?
A Compensation and Pension exam is an evidence-gathering examination or medical opinion for a VA claim; it is not treatment and the examiner does not decide the claim.
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
VA may request a C&P exam when it needs medical findings or an opinion to decide a claim. The examiner may review records, ask questions from a DBQ, perform an appropriate examination, and order testing. The completed report goes back to VA, where a claims adjudicator makes the decision.
How it differs from a medical appointmentDetails
- The purpose is to document information for a benefits decision, not provide ongoing care.
- The examiner generally does not prescribe medication, create a treatment plan, or tell you the likely rating.
- The scope may be limited to one condition, one opinion question, or specific measurements.
- The exam may be conducted by VA or an authorized contractor.
What can happen during the examDetails
- Identity verification and review of the claimed condition.
- Questions about onset, history, symptoms, treatment, flare-ups, and functional impact.
- A physical or mental-health examination appropriate to the DBQ.
- Review of records and diagnostic tests, with additional testing when needed.
- A medical opinion about direct service connection, secondary causation, or aggravation when VA requests one.
What to bring or knowDetails
- Accurate medication, treatment, provider, and symptom information.
- Glasses, hearing aids, braces, or ordinary assistive devices you use.
- Any item the scheduling letter specifically requests.
- A concise factual timeline if dates are difficult to remember.
- The contractor and appointment details so you can report a problem promptly.
Common questionsDetails
- Can I submit records at the exam? — Follow VA and contractor instructions; also submit evidence through an official VA channel so receipt can be tracked.
- Can the examiner decide my percentage? — No. The examiner reports medical findings; VA applies the law and rating schedule.
- Can I record the exam? — Policies and state law may apply; ask before recording and do not assume permission.
- Why was the exam short? — Length alone does not establish adequacy; the question is whether the report addresses the required facts and medical questions.
AfterwardDetails
Write a private factual note about the date, duration, tests, important questions, and any problem while memory is fresh. Request the final report through the appropriate VA process; do not argue with the examiner during the appointment.