The referral question
Identify the psychological question and any relevant service-connected conditions. Physical-only and TBI-assessment requests are outside our scope.
For attorneys & VSOs
A focused referral. An independent opinion.
Refer Veterans for psychological evaluations related to VA disability claims, including direct and secondary service-connection questions.
What to clarify before scheduling
The records and deadline
Discuss available records and any filing deadline before scheduling. Use the designated secure intake process for clinical material.
Eligibility and independence
Location, service-fit, records, and prior-involvement checks apply to every referral. A referral does not bypass these checks.
What the evaluation includes
Records review, a 60-minute video interview, and a signed written report explaining the findings and independent clinical opinion. The opinion reflects the evidence rather than a requested outcome.
Your signed report is delivered securely within 5 business days after the interview and receipt of required records, forms, and follow-up information, except in unusual circumstances.
If unusual circumstances delay the report, we will explain the delay and provide an updated expected delivery date.
Prepare a referral
Use this checklist to prepare for the secure referral process. It is not a submission form; do not email clinical records or sensitive health information.
- The psychological referral question.
- The Veteran’s physical location during the appointment; review planned coverage.
- Which relevant records are available and which may be missing.
- Any filing deadline to discuss before scheduling.
- Any prior treatment or evaluation relationship relevant to the independence check.
[XXX: Confirm the referral-request route, Veteran consent/authorization requirements, and who coordinates scheduling]
Referral submissions are not enabled in this draft.
A consultation when you need one.
Clear referrals do not routinely require a consultation. Uncertain scope, missing records, a history of TBI, mixed TBI and mental-health concerns, or eating-disorder requests begin with the free 15-minute phone call. It is a service-fit conversation, not a full records review or an advance opinion about the claim.