Obtaining medical records for toxic exposure cases: A guide for active-duty military and veterans

One of the most important requirements for a strong claim is medical records. They are evidence that ties your condition back to your service. However, they are often difficult to come by. It requires time, energy, and resources. That is why we have created this easy guide to assist you in preparing.

Why medical records matter in toxic exposure claims

Filing toxic exposure claims typically requires medical documentation linking the diagnosis to military service. This is where medical records come in.

They can serve as proof that such a connection exists. These documents will show where and when the symptoms began. It can also provide further insights into your health by tracking the progression of the illness. Without proper documentation, it is often challenging to establish service connection, an essential component of toxic exposure and VA disability claims.

Steps and tips for getting your medical records more efficiently

Before you put in any request, you have to determine what kind of medical records you need to support your case. They usually include the following:

• Electronic health records from Military Clinics and Hospitals
• Service Treatment Records (STR)
• VA medical records
• Private health provider medical records

Aside from determining the medical records your case needs, you should learn the right procedures to follow when acquiring medical records.

The following are the most common processes military members and their families go through when obtaining medical records for toxic exposure claims.

• Completing the Standard Form 180 (SF 180): In order to access medical records for military members, you need to fill out and submit the SF 180. The form is required to locate necessary medical records, for instance, Service Treatment Records. The SF 180 can be utilized to obtain older and more current medical records of military members. Keep in mind that completing the SF 180 requires specific identifying information about the individual whose records are being requested. The form can be downloaded and submitted to the organization or agency concerned by mail or by fax.
• Obtaining VA medical records: You may also access military medical records from the VA, especially if you have been treated at a VA hospital or clinic. You can request access to and copies of your documents online or in person. You can submit it by logging in to MyHealtheVet, the VA's online portal. Veterans may also file their request in person at the nearest VA center.
• Accessing military online portals: If eligible, military personnel may access their health records through online portals such as the MHS Genesis Patient Portal. They can provide access to various personal health information, such as laboratory results, allergy profiles, and medication lists.
• Requesting records from private healthcare providers: You can also request copies of your medical records from private healthcare providers who examined or treated your condition. You must contact the hospital, clinic, or doctor in charge directly. Their request forms usually vary, but most allow patients to submit them in person, online, or by mail. When requesting, you must also specify what information you need. For example, you might need the complete treatment records and not just summaries to support your claim.

When you have collected all your medical records, it is best to organize and review them prior to filing your claims. It is also advisable to have backup copies in case you might lose or misplace them. In this manner, it would also help make the filing process easier and more convenient for you.

How ELG Law can assist you in filing toxic exposure and VA claims

Requesting records is just the beginning of the claims process. The real challenge lies in connecting those records to your toxic exposure claims. That's where experienced legal expertise can make a real difference.

Several active-duty service members, veterans, and their family members seek the help of experienced lawyers to provide them with the support they need. If you are looking for professional guidance, then you have come to the right place.

For over 30 years, ELG has assisted dozens of individuals in filing their toxic exposure claims, including many veterans and military personnel. If you want to know how to get started, we're ready to accommodate your questions.