Veterans' Corner: Having more control over the disability process helps veterans

Tuesday, March 15, 2016 - 11:17am

With Disability Benefits Questionnaires (DBQs), Veterans now have more control over the disability claims process. Veterans have the option of visiting a private health care provider instead of a VA facility to complete their disability evaluation form.

DBQs are standardized medical documents approved by the Veterans Benefits Administration (VBA) that are currently used by Veterans Healthcare Administration (VHA) disability examiners to record diseases and illnesses for Veterans’ compensation disability benefit claims. DBQs can also be used by VHA primary care/specialty care providers, as well as private sector physicians, as a standardized format for communication of medical evidence as part of the Veteran’s claim for VA disability benefits. VHA supports the completion of DBQs by treating providers and encourages a “no wrong door” philosophy to assist our Veterans.

DBQs also help support VA's Fully Developed Claims (FDC) Program. DBQs are valuable for claims processing because they provide medical information that is directly relevant to determining a disability rating. When submitted with a fully developed claim, DBQs ensure the VA's ratings specialists have precisely the information they need to start processing the claim. Veterans can have their providers fill out any of the more than 70 DBQs that are appropriate for their conditions. It’s that easy! For more information about DBQs and their use you can call and schedule an appointment to speak with one of our accredited veteran service representatives.

The Kings County Veterans Service Office issues Veteran I.D. cards to honorably discharged veterans. Contact Joe Wright if you would like to receive periodic veteran’s information by email.

There are many state and federal benefits and programs available to veterans and their dependents. To find out if you are eligible for any of these benefits, visit or call our office. We can and will assist you in completing all required application forms. You can get information on the Web from the Kings County Veterans Service Office webpage at www.countyofkings.com.
Joe Wright, retired Navy Master Chief Petty Officer, is the Veterans Service Officer for Kings County. Send your questions to the Veterans Service Office, 1400 W. Lacey Blvd, Hanford, CA 93230; call 852-2669; or e-mail joe.wright@co.kings.ca.us.