Frequently
Asked
Questions

1. What is an Independent Medical Opinion (IMO)?

An IMO is a medical opinion from a licensed psychologist that links your mental health condition to your military service. At Frontline Assessments, the IMO includes both a Nexus Statement and all pertinent questions from the VA Disability Benefits Questionnaire (DBQ).

2. What is a Nexus Statement and DBQ?

A Nexus Statement is a professional statement explaining how your condition is connected to your service. A DBQ is a standardized VA form providing detailed clinical information for your claim. Both are included in our IMO package.

3. Why do you offer both a DBQ and Nexus Statement?

The DBQ provides a structured clinical assessment, while the Nexus Statement offers a detailed narrative linking your condition to service. Together, they form a complete and compelling package for the VA.

4. What makes a strong IMO?

A strong IMO clearly states the provider’s credentials, thoroughly reviews your records, uses VA-accepted language (“at least as likely as not”), and explains the medical reasoning behind the opinion.

5. What mental health conditions qualify for VA disability benefits?

VA recognizes many mental health conditions for disability, including PTSD, anxiety, depression, mood disorders, and others. However, conditions that are genetic or developmental, such as personality disorders, are generally not eligible. Our IMOs focus on conditions linked to your service.

6. How do I prove service connection for a mental health condition?

To qualify, you must show a current diagnosis, an in-service event or injury, and a medical nexus linking the two. Service connection can also be established through presumptions, secondary conditions, or aggravation of preexisting conditions. A strong IMO supports this proof.

7. How can lay evidence help my VA mental health claim?

Lay evidence includes statements from you, family, friends, or coworkers describing how your condition affects your daily life. It can support your claim by corroborating medical evidence, showing symptom continuity, and detailing occupational or social impairment.

8. Why should I use your service instead of filing through the VA alone?

We offer expert evaluations, fast scheduling, and high-quality documentation that significantly strengthens your claim. Many Veterans choose us to ensure their story is clearly and credibly told.

9. How much does an IMO with Frontline Assessments cost?

Our comprehensive IMO, including diagnosis, DBQ, Nexus Statement, and supporting evidence, costs $715 which includes a $100 deposit when scheduling your appointment.

10. Most IMO services I’ve found online range from $1,500 to $4,500. Why is your fee significantly lower?

At Frontline Assessments, we prioritize delivering expert, high-quality evaluations at a fair and transparent price. Having conducted hundreds of independent medical opinions, we’ve streamlined our process to maximize efficiency without sacrificing thoroughness or accuracy. We understand that many Veterans face financial challenges, so we set our pricing to be accessible while still providing the comprehensive, credible documentation you need to strengthen your claim. Our goal is to offer exceptional value because we respect both your time and your service.

11. What if my claim is denied even with an IMO?

You may choose to appeal. We recommend working with a Veterans Service Officer (VSO) or accredited legal expert to guide your next steps.

12. Can I work with both a VSO and your clinical evaluators?

Yes. VSOs assist with filing and navigating VA processes, while we provide the medical documentation supporting your claim. Many veterans find using both maximizes success.

13. Can VA doctors write Nexus Statements or IMOs?

Yes, but VA-employed doctors may face limitations. Independent evaluations often provide more comprehensive, unbiased support.

14. How do I submit my IMO to the VA?

You can submit your IMO through the VA portal, by mail, or via an accredited VSO or representative.

15. Does having a IMO guarantee claim approval?

No provider can guarantee approval. However, a high-quality IMO greatly improves your chances.

16. Are you my treating psychologist?

No. We do not provide ongoing treatment or therapy. Our role is limited to independent evaluations for VA claims.

17. Are evaluations virtual?

Yes. All evaluations are conducted securely via video telehealth. You’ll receive a link in your confirmation email.

18. Where are you licensed?

We are licensed in all PSYPACT-participating states including California.

19. I live in a non-licensed state. Can I still work with you?

Yes. Veterans often travel to a PSYPACT state to complete their evaluation. You must be physically located in an approved state during the session.

20. Do you provide medical advice or treatment?

You can submit your IMO through the VA portal, by mail, or via an accredited VSO or representative.

21. Will you take a portion of my VA benefits?

No. Our flat fee is charged upfront, and we do not take any percentage of your benefits.

22. Can I use my phone for the evaluation?

Yes, but it’s not the most reliable option for our technology. We recommend using a desktop or laptop for the best audio, video, and overall connection quality. If you must use your phone, please ensure you are stationary and in a quiet, well-lit location.

24. I just paid my $100 deposit—what’s next?

You’ll receive a confirmation email with a secure link to our intake form and document upload portal.

contact

1500 N Grant Street STE
Denver CO 80203
720-915-8197
info@frontlineassessments.com
Learn more about Dr. Dan Pelton’s work in organizational resilience at DanPelton.com