What Does an Example of a Medical Nexus Letter Look Like? 

A medical Nexus letter is critical evidence in many VA disability claims, linking a Veteran’s current medical condition(s) to their military service. It’s written by a healthcare provider and provides an expert opinion that connects a diagnosed condition with an in-service event or injury. Here’s a guide to what a medical Nexus letter could look like and why it’s important. 

Why is a Strong Medical Nexus Letter Important? 

To establish a claim of service connection for a disability, a Veteran needs to prove three things: (1) that they have a current disability, (2) that they had a potentially related in-service event (such as an injury, illness, or exposure), and (3) that there is a connection, or Nexus, between the first two. Alternatively, a Veteran can show how an already service-connected disability has caused an additional disability. A strong medical Nexus letter can play an integral role for Veterans who are seeking VA disability compensation but lack clear service connection in their military records. The letter serves as expert testimony, demonstrating that a Veteran’s current disability is “at least as likely as not” related to their time in the military. This letter may often be the deciding factor in getting a claim approved or denied, especially in cases where medical records from service are incomplete or nonexistent. 

Veterans who have complex medical conditions related to service or conditions related to an already service-connected disability may benefit significantly from a detailed Nexus letter. Without it, the VA may reject a claim for lack of sufficient evidence connecting the condition to military service. 

Key Components of a Medical Nexus Letter 

A well-written Nexus letter contains several critical components that help establish a strong case for the Veteran’s claim: 

• Introduction and Medical Provider’s Qualifications: The letter should start with a clear introduction, stating the provider’s credentials, their medical experience, and their relationship with the Veteran. The provider should note if and how long they’ve been treating the Veteran and their familiarity with the Veteran’s medical history. 

• Review of Medical and Service History: The provider must summarize the Veteran’s relevant medical history, including military service records, VA medical records, and any private medical care the Veteran has received. This review should highlight any documented injuries or conditions during service. 

• Clear Medical Opinion: The core of the Nexus letter is the provider’s medical opinion. This opinion should state that it is “at least as likely as not” that the Veteran’s current condition is related to their military service. The phrasing is crucial, as it meets the VA’s threshold for determining a service connection. A barebones declaration that a Veteran’s condition is related to service is not enough. The provider must explain their reasoning. 

• Supporting Evidence: The provider should cite specific medical evidence to support their conclusion. This may include diagnostic test results (such as MRIs or X-rays), medical studies, or known risks associated with the Veteran’s military duties. The stronger the evidence, the more compelling the letter will be.  

Example of a Medical Nexus Letter 

Here’s a basic structure for what a medical Nexus letter might look like: 

Dr. John Smith, MD 

[Medical Specialty] 

[Medical Clinic] 

[Address] 

[Date] 

Subject: Medical Nexus Opinion for [Veteran’s Name] 

Reference: C-File # [XXXXX] 

To the Department of Veterans Affairs, 

I am writing this letter on behalf of [Veteran’s Name], a patient under my care since [Date]. I have reviewed [Veteran’s Name] military service records, VA medical records, and private medical records related to their condition. 

Based on my medical knowledge, experience, and review of the evidence, it is my medical opinion that [Veteran’s Name]‘s current condition, [Condition Name], is at least as likely as not related to their military service. This conclusion is supported by [evidence such as service treatment records, test results, documented symptoms, etc.], and the known risks associated with [relevant military duties, events, or exposures] during their service from [Service Dates]. 

Sincerely, 

Dr. John Smith, MD 

[Medical License #] 

What If You Don’t Have Your Medical Records from the VA? 

If you do not have medical records from the VA, you can contact the National Personnel Records Center (NPRC) and request a file with all your personnel information from the date you entered active service. 

How to Get a Medical Nexus Letter for a VA Claim 

When seeking a Nexus letter to support a VA disability claim, start by contacting a primary care doctor, a VA physician, or a private medical professional. It’s important to choose a doctor who understands the requirements for writing a Nexus letter and is willing to provide a detailed and evidence-based opinion. 

In cases where a regular physician is unfamiliar with VA claims or unwilling to write a Nexus letter, Veterans may need to seek out a specialist with experience in VA disability claims.  A Veterans Service Organization (VSO) or a Veterans Disability Attorney may be able to connect a Veteran with healthcare providers who are skilled in how to draft a winning Nexus letter. 

What Nexus Letters Might Mean for a VA Claim 

A solid medical Nexus letter can make or break a VA disability claim, especially in cases where the connection between the Veteran’s condition and military service isn’t well-documented. Working with a knowledgeable doctor who provides a detailed, evidence-backed letter can significantly improve your chances of securing the VA disability benefits you deserve. 

If you need help gathering medical evidence or obtaining a Nexus letter, contact Berry Law today. Our attorneys can guide you through the VA claims process and help you build the strongest case possible.