Orthopedic DBQ
A focused orthopedic evaluation using the current public VA Disability Benefits Questionnaire for the condition being assessed. The DBQ documents diagnosis, objective examination findings, functional loss, and current severity.
Three Levels of Service
The medical evidence should match the question
A DBQ documents the condition as it exists today. A nexus opinion addresses medical causation. A complex review is appropriate when prior opinions, denials, or competing causes need to be addressed.
Nexus Medical Opinion
An independent orthopedic medical opinion addressing a causation question, such as whether a current musculoskeletal condition is related to an in-service injury, is secondary to another condition, or has been aggravated.
Complex / Prior-Opinion Review
Detailed review when there is a prior DBQ or C&P examination, an unfavorable medical opinion, a prior denial involving medical causation, competing causes, or a need to address conflicting orthopedic evidence.
Orthopedic Scope
Musculoskeletal conditions we evaluate
The evaluation must be within the scope of orthopedic practice and supported by the available records and examination. Some neurologic or spine questions may require another specialist.
Knee & lower legHip & thighShoulder & armElbow & forearmWrist, hand & fingersAnkle & footFractures & post-traumatic arthritisJoint replacement residualsAmputation residualsSelected spine & peripheral nerve conditions
How It Works
A clear medical-evaluation process
Our role is medical: identify the question, review the relevant evidence, perform the appropriate orthopedic evaluation, and document an independent conclusion.
01
Request pricing & availability
Tell our team whether you need a DBQ, nexus opinion, prior-opinion review, or are not sure. For DBQs, let us know each condition or body region that needs a form.
02
Send the relevant records
Prior VA decisions, C&P examinations, DBQs, service treatment records, orthopedic records, imaging, and operative reports help us define the appropriate scope before the evaluation.
03
Orthopedic evaluation
When an examination is required, objective findings are documented for the condition being evaluated using the current applicable form and orthopedic examination standards.
04
Independent documentation
The completed DBQ and/or medical opinion reflects the records and examination findings. The conclusion is independent and is never guaranteed in advance.
Independent Medical Evidence
What this service does — and does not — do
Pacific Bone & Joint provides orthopedic examination, record review, DBQ documentation, and independent medical opinions. We do not file VA benefit claims, advise which claim or appeal to file, promise a favorable medical conclusion, or predict a disability rating.
VA may still require its own C&P examination. VA also states that it does not reimburse the expense of a privately completed DBQ. For help preparing or pursuing a VA benefits claim, work with a VA-accredited representative.
Frequently Asked Questions
Veteran orthopedic DBQ & nexus evaluations
What is a VA DBQ?+
A Disability Benefits Questionnaire (DBQ) is a standardized VA form used to document a diagnosis, examination findings, symptoms, functional limitations, and other information relevant to a disability evaluation. Pacific Bone & Joint uses the current public VA form for the condition being evaluated.
What is a nexus medical opinion?+
A nexus medical opinion addresses medical causation. Depending on the question, it may address whether a current orthopedic condition is related to an in-service event, is secondary to another condition, or has been aggravated. The opinion includes the medical rationale supported by the available evidence.
How much does a DBQ or nexus evaluation cost?+
Fees depend on the service requested, the number of DBQs, record volume, and complexity. Contact Pacific Bone & Joint for current pricing and availability before scheduling.
Will VA reimburse me for a private DBQ?+
No. VA states that it will not pay or reimburse expenses incurred in completing or submitting a privately obtained DBQ. These evaluations are private self-pay services.
Will a private DBQ replace a VA C&P examination?+
Not necessarily. VA may consider a privately completed DBQ and may still decide that a separate VA or contract C&P examination is needed.
Can you guarantee that the opinion will support my claim?+
No. The evaluation is independent. The medical conclusion may be favorable, unfavorable, or may state that a reliable opinion cannot be given from the available evidence. Payment is for the professional evaluation and documentation, not a particular conclusion or VA rating.
What should I bring or send before the evaluation?+
If available, send the relevant VA decision or denial, prior C&P examination and DBQs, service treatment records, current orthopedic records, imaging reports, operative reports, and any written medical question from your VA-accredited representative or attorney.
Current public VA DBQs are available at VA.gov.
Request pricing & availability
Tell us which orthopedic condition you need evaluated, whether you need a DBQ or medical opinion, and whether there is a prior C&P examination, DBQ, or VA decision to review.