Differences Between an Independent Medical Opinion (IMO) and Nexus Letter

When a veteran submits a disability claim with the U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs (VA) the evidence submitted with the claim may help determine the success or failure of the claim. This medical evidence may include a Nexus Letter or an Independent Medical Opinion (IMO) — but many veterans may not know the differences between an Independent Medical Opinion and a Nexus Letter. We hope that this quick comparison and overview highlights key differences and will help you determine the best option for you in your disability claim.

Independent Medical Opinion vs. Nexus Letter for Veteran Disability Claims

Medical evidence is the foundation of any veteran disability claim and both Independent Medical Opinions and Nexus Letters fit the bill — but they each do it in a different way and have a different impact. An Independent Medical Opinion provided with a disability claim is a broad and comprehensive medical evaluation by a physician often used to contest a denied claim. A Nexus Letter is a more focused medical document that helps establish a service connection for the veteran’s disability. 

No matter which piece of evidence you decide to add to your disability claim (or maybe you choose both), there are requirements that must be met that lend weight and validity to your claim.

• Credentials: There must be proof that the physician providing their professional opinion or a Nexus Letter is an expert in their field as it applies to your disability.
• Records Review: The evidence must come with a clear statement that lists the service and medical records examined for the claim.
• Reasoning: The documents or letter provided must provide clear and concise medical reasoning why the veteran’s medical condition is related to their service with citations included when possible. 

Here is a better look at key areas where Independent Medical Opinions and Nexus Letters are different:

READ MORE: Can a Veteran Write a Letter for Their Own Disability Claim?

IMO vs. Nexus Letter: Primary Purpose

The primary difference in this comparison is the purpose that an Independent Medical Opinion and Nexus Letter serve. Independent Medical Opinions are intended to provide a more comprehensive and objective medical analysis of a veteran’s injury, illness, or medical condition and in most cases is used to provide a diagnosis, challenge a denied claim, or seek a higher disability rating. Medical Nexus Letters are intended to answer a specific question about a veteran’s disability — Is your current disability at least as likely as not caused or aggravated by your military service?

IMO vs. Nexus Letter: Medical Examination

Do you need an additional medical examination with your Nexus Letter or IMO? This is a common question that veterans have. With an Independent Medical Opinion, veterans may need an Independent Medical Examination (IME) that requires in-person evaluation by independent medical professionals. A Nexus Letter typically does not involve further examination and relies on a medical professional’s review of your records. 

IMO vs. Nexus Letter: Length

When you submit your disability claim, it may necessitate a mountain of medical documents and evidence, and when it comes to document length and depth there are differences between medical opinions and Nexus Letters. Nexus Letters are shorter documents of about 1 – 3 pages that address the service connection, while Independent Medical Opinions are broader and more in depth with typically more than five pages of medical evidence that includes literature, evaluations, and more.

IMO vs. Nexus Letter: When Should You Use Them?

When is an Independent Medical Opinion the right option? When should you submit a Nexus Letter? This is an important question to ask and answer. IMOs are typically employed as a part of the appeals process when a claim is denied and you appeal via a Higher-Level Review or a Board of Veterans’ Appeals. Nexus Letters are most often submitted as part of a new claim or as part of a Supplemental Claim.

READ MORE: How Do You Increase Your VA Disability Rating?

Do you have questions about what evidence you need to support your disability claim? You may have heard of Nexus Letters and Independent Medical Opinions — but you may not know the differences. This quick comparison created by VA Benefits Attorneys will help answer your questions. 

Contact VA Benefits Attorneys today for help with your disability claim!