Centralized Administrative Accounting Transaction System (CAATS). Change Date July 30, 2015 a. Tools Used for Requesting Examinations The examination request tools listed in this topic allow users to identify the examining facility location closest to the Veteran identify the DBQs for the claimed disabilities build the examination request, and enter the examination request to the VA or VA contract examination facility. b. ERRA Tool Examination facilities designated to conduct exams are found in the , integrated with the . The ERRA search results include information found for the facility routing location the routing location and exam list comments exam type details, and approximate distance (from the zip code inquiry). Important: This tool is designed as a guide to assist in the routing of C&P examination requests. VA usage of this tool is mandatory. When routing an examination requests, take into account any local agreements claimant preferences, or topography/driving concerns. Note: The ERRA tool identifies if there is a local contract examination facility available. Example: A search for zip code 78550 produces the following statement: According to the , ZIP code 78550 is associated with QTC. Reference: For more information on the ERRA tool, see . c. Index of DBQ/Exams by Disability Tool The allows users to search by a particular word, phrase, or diagnostic code (DC). Input information in the SEARCH CRITERIA text box, and the tool will generate suggested DBQs, DCs, and relevant legacy examination worksheets. d. ERB Tool The primary purpose of the (ERB) tool is to standardize the format for exam requests.
General Medical DBQs exist for compensation, Veteran’s Pension, and Gulf War claims. c. Conducting a General Medical Examination When the medical examiner conducts the examination, he/she should confirm the existence of and evaluate all disabilities listed in the examination request, and any other disabilities the Veteran identifies during the examination. Note: Opinions addressing etiology and relationship to service are not typically provided by general medical examinations. Reference: For more information on DBQs used for general medical examinations, see VA’s . d. Citing Medical Conditions to Be Examined The examination request for a general medical examination should clearly cite the conditions or particular diagnoses that require attention. 6. Specialist Examinations Introduction This topic contains information about specialist examinations, including examinations routinely performed by specialists who may request other types of specialist examinations when to request a specialist examination who determines the choice of examiner, and DSM-5 and mental disorders specialty examinations. Change Date July 30, 2015 a. Examinations Routinely Performed by Specialists Some examinations are routinely performed by specialists. These examinations include hearing vision dental, and psychiatric.
Reference: For more information on creating a tracked item, see , or MAP-D Guide. 5 Open either the CAPRI or CAATs application. 6 Select all required exams and medical opinion DBQs. 7 Paste the ERB exam request language into the REMARKS field. References: For more information on inputting a medical opinion request in CAPRI, see the , and CAATS, see the . c. Identifying the Evidence to be Reviewed in a Medical Opinion Request Identify all pertinent evidence for the examiner to review in the by completing the TAB screen. For each tabbed item of evidence, populate the ASSOCIATED EXAM field EVIDENCE field TAB NAME field DATE field DESCRIPTION field, and LOCATION field. References: For more information on ERB fields, see the , and identifying evidence for an examiner’s review, see M21-1, Part III, Subpart iv, 3.A.10.d. d. Maintaining Objectivity in Medical Opinion Requests When requesting medical opinions, RO employees should Identify all relevant evidence for the examiner’s review, both favorable and unfavorable. However, maintain objectivity when preparing medical opinion requests. Use a neutral and unbiased tone. Do not slant the facts. Do not communicate that VA prefers one answer or outcome over another. Reference: For more information on requesting a medical opinion in an impartial manner, see , 23 Vet. App. 19, 24, 25-26 (2009). e. Medical Opinions Required For Remands When requesting an opinion in compliance with BVA remand instructions explain specifically what is needed. Quoting the instructions from BVA on the medical opinion request may be helpful, but try to avoid legal jargon. Important: Do not simply refer the examiner to the claims folder containing the remand instructions.