Nexus Letters Explained

A nexus letter is a written medical opinion linking your current diagnosis to an event, injury, or exposure during your service. The VA needs three things: 1. A current, diagnosed condition (present in the record). 2. An in-service event, injury, or exposure. 3. A medical opinion connecting the two, the 'nexus.' The magic phrase is 'at least as likely as not', that's the legal standard for granting service connection. A nexus letter that says your condition is 'more likely than not' related to service also works. Who writes them: any qualified medical professional. Your VA doctor can, but most don't have time. Independent providers write them for a fee. Pick someone who reviews your full records before writing.