If you have non-VA medical records applicable to your currently applied disability, it is your responsibility to get those records to the VA, but the VA also has a duty to assist. “VA’s Duty to Assist requires VA to assist you in getting evidence, such as medical records, that’s needed to support your case.” https://www.va.gov/decision-reviews/faq/. Even though the VA has this duty, it is usually more efficient if you obtain the records on your own.
Having non-VA medical providers can assist your claim in some situations. A VA accredited attorney can help you obtain a nexus support letter, something most VA medical providers will not write. This nexus letter will show the VA: 1) that you have a current medical condition, 2) that you had an event, injury, or illness while in-service, and 3) most importantly, that there is a link between the two (service connected). Sometimes the VA will schedule a C&P exam to provide a brief opinion about the nexus, however having a private uninterested party write a full nexus letter can be very valuable to your case.
Many VA disability claims are denied due to a lack of medical records, so be sure to obtain all of your applicable medical records regardless of who provided the service.
Contact the Law Office of Christine M Bechtold, LLC to schedule a free case evaluation for your VA disability appeal. 770-466-2700, Christine@Bechtold-Law.com.