DBQs allow veterans and service members to have more control over the disability claims process by giving them the option of visiting a health-care provider in their community instead of waiting for a VA compensation and pension exam to be scheduled.

The forms use check boxes and standardized language so that a disability rating can be made accurately and quickly.

Veterans can have their private providers fill out any of the more than 70 DBQs available that are appropriate for their claim conditions, and they can submit them to the VA with supporting medical documentation The VA can use these forms to decide your claim, streamlining the claims process.

If you choose to use the VA’s new DBQ forms as part of your application to the U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs, your DBQ must be completed by and signed by a licensed provider with all supporting medical documentation attached.

It is important to realize that the VA will not pay or reimburse any expenses or costs incurred in the process of completing and/or submitting a DBQ. The VA also reserves the right to confirm the authenticity of all DBQs completed by private health care providers.

A list of all DBQs available can be viewed on the VA website at: benefits.va.gov/compensation/dbq_listbysymptom.asp Or you can visit your local County Veterans Service Officer for more information and assistance in choosing the proper DBQ for your disability claim.

Richard Schleeter is the veterans service officer for the La Plata County Veterans Service Office. He can be reached at 759-0117 or [email protected].

For more information

The La Plata County Veterans Service Office provides information and assistance to veterans and their families. There is a wide range of benefits available for our nation’s veterans. Every veteran is encouraged to contact the CVSO to find out more about their VA benefits. Your CVSO can assist you in any matter pertaining to the Department of Veterans Affairs. These services are free of charge. For more information, please visit the La Plata County website at www.co.laplata.co.us/. Enter “veteran’s services” in the search box.
The La Plata County Veterans Service Office is co-located with the Durango VA Clinic at 1970 East Third Avenue. The office phone number is 759-0117. Office hours are 8 a.m. to 5 p.m., Monday-Friday, except holidays. Appointments are encouraged. Call 382-6150 to schedule an appointment with the Veterans Service Office.
The Durango VA Clinic is located at 1970 East Third Avenue, Suite 102. For clinic appointments, call 247-2214