Understand the medical gaps behind your denial.
We prepare the record around the reason for denial, identify what is missing, and match the medical question to an appropriate independent physician.
Start My ReviewWhy most VA claims are denied
A denial does not mean your condition is not real or not service-connected. It usually means the documentation on file was not sufficient to meet the VA's evidentiary standard.
Common reasons the VA cites for denial
- No nexus established between condition and service
- VA exam (C&P) findings were unfavorable
- Condition not documented during service
- Insufficient medical evidence in the record
- Secondary service connection not supported
- Condition attributed to non-service causes
An independent medical opinion from a board-certified physician specifically addresses these gaps. It provides a structured, well-reasoned clinical assessment using the VA's own standard: whether the condition is "at least as likely as not" connected to service.
What an independent medical opinion addresses
Nexus Determination
A physician reviews your records and service history to provide a clinical opinion on whether your condition is connected to your military service, using the "at least as likely as not" standard.
C&P Exam Rebuttal
If an unfavorable C&P exam contributed to your denial, an independent opinion from a board-certified specialist can provide a separate, objective clinical assessment of the same evidence.
Structured Documentation
The written opinion is structured for VA use: it addresses diagnostic criteria, reviews the relevant evidence, and provides a clear, well-reasoned medical rationale a claims adjudicator can evaluate.
When to request an independent medical opinion
An independent medical opinion can be submitted as part of a supplemental claim, used to support a Higher-Level Review request, or presented at a Board of Veterans' Appeals hearing. Appeal windows are time-limited, so acting promptly after a denial preserves your options.
Consider requesting an IMO if:
- Your initial claim was denied for insufficient evidence
- Your rating is lower than your condition warrants
- A C&P exam produced an unfavorable finding
- You are filing a supplemental claim with new evidence
- You are preparing for a Board of Veterans' Appeals hearing
- Secondary service connection was not established
You do not need every record before you begin
Start with the short intake and payment. A case specialist then sends the secure records request and helps you gather the right evidence.
Helpful records may include:
- Your VA denial letter or rating decision
- C&P exam results, if available
- Service treatment records
- Current medical records for the condition
- Prior nexus letters or medical opinions
- The condition and connection you are claiming
Board-certified across the conditions that matter
We match your case to a physician in the right specialty, including psychiatry and psychology (PTSD, depression, anxiety), orthopedics (musculoskeletal and service injuries), and ENT (tinnitus, hearing loss, sinus and breathing). See all services and specialties.
How it works
Secure Intake, Payment & Organization
Complete the focused $899 intake first. A case specialist then gathers and organizes the complete record set through a separate secure intake.
- Encrypted record submission
- Records organized and reviewed
- Confirmation email provided
Case Validation & Specialty Match
Your submission is reviewed for completeness and matched to a board-certified physician with the relevant specialty.
- Missing documentation identified
- Specialty alignment confirmed
- Clarifications requested if needed
Physician Evaluation
A board-certified physician conducts an independent review of your records, service history, and relevant documentation.
- Chronological record analysis
- Diagnostic criteria applied
- Evidence-based clinical reasoning
Nexus Opinion Written
A structured, evidence-based medical opinion with nexus language and clear rationale is authored.
- Clear nexus determination language
- Defensible clinical rationale
- Evidence-based conclusions
Secure Delivery
You receive the completed written opinion securely within 14 days after Valor confirms your final required information and records are complete and ready for physician review. Many standard cases are delivered sooner.
- Secure delivery to authorized parties
- Ready for your claim or appeal
Pricing and Turnaround
The standard independent medical opinion engagement is $899 for one claimed condition. Flat pricing, never a percentage of backpay. Standard cases are completed within 14 days after Valor confirms your final required information and records are complete and ready for physician review, and many are delivered sooner.
Denied claims & IMOs
Still have a question? Contact us and we'll help.
Can an independent medical opinion help after a denial?
An independent medical opinion can provide a structured, physician-authored clinical assessment that addresses gaps the VA identified in your original claim. It cannot guarantee a different outcome, but it can provide objective medical documentation that may support your appeal or supplemental claim.
What is the most common reason VA claims are denied?
Insufficient medical evidence is the most frequently cited reason for VA disability claim denials. Specifically, the VA often finds that the record does not adequately establish a nexus between a veteran's current condition and their military service. An independent medical opinion directly addresses this gap.
Can I use an IMO to appeal an unfavorable C&P exam?
Yes. An independent medical opinion from a board-certified specialist can provide a separate, objective clinical assessment that may address weaknesses or gaps in a C&P examiner's findings. Veterans may submit independent opinions as new and relevant evidence in a supplemental claim or as supporting documentation for a Board of Veterans' Appeals hearing.
How much does an IMO cost?
The fee is $899 per claimed condition. If you have multiple conditions, begin with the condition you want reviewed first and the team will scope additional reviews after intake.
Does Valor guarantee my claim will be approved?
No. We provide independent medical opinions grounded in clinical documentation. The opinion's weight in your case depends on factors beyond our control, including the adjudicator's review and the totality of evidence in your file. We do not guarantee outcomes or provide medical treatment.
A denial is not the final word.
Submit your documentation securely. A board-certified physician will review your case and deliver a structured, evidence-based opinion you can use in your appeal.
Opens in a new tab, so this page stays open. Our intake is a secure, HIPAA-compliant system that keeps your medical records encrypted and protected.
No physician-patient relationship is established. We do not guarantee outcomes or provide medical treatment.