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What to Expect in a C&P Exam for Skin Cancer

Picture of Leah Bucholz

Leah Bucholz

Leah Bucholz, PA-C, is a Board-Certified Physician Assistant, U.S. Army combat veteran, and nationally recognized medical expert in veterans’ disability claims. A former VA Compensation & Pension examiner, she founded Prestige Veteran Medical Consulting to provide independent, regulation-based medical opinions (“nexus” letters) grounded in the VA’s Schedule for Rating Disabilities (38 CFR). Leah’s work is frequently cited in favorable Board of Veterans’ Appeals decisions, and her content draws directly from authoritative sources such as VA.gov, the eCFR, and the Federal Register.
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C&P Exam for Skin Cancer

At Prestige Veteran Medical Consulting, our blogs are written and reviewed by licensed medical professionals or military veterans with direct experience in the VA claims process. Our team has served as healthcare providers, combat veterans, and former VA examiners — giving us unique insight into both the medical and regulatory side of benefits. Every article is designed to provide accurate, trustworthy, and practical guidance so that veterans and their families can make informed decisions with confidence.

Understanding what to expect during a C&P exam for skin cancer can alleviate some of the anxiety associated with the process. Leah Bucholz from Prestige Veteran Medical Consulting, a US Army veteran, physician assistant, and former C&P examiner, shares her insights on what happens during these exams. This article will provide a detailed overview, from the basics of skin cancer to the specifics of the C&P exam process.

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Understanding Skin Cancer

Before diving into the specifics of the C&P exam, it’s essential to have a basic understanding of skin cancer. The Mayo Clinic defines skin cancer as the abnormal growth of skin cells, often developing on skin exposed to the sun. However, it can also occur in areas not typically exposed to sunlight. There are three major types of skin cancer:

  • Melanoma: A serious form of skin cancer that develops in the cells (melanocytes) that produce melanin, the pigment that gives your skin its color.
  • Basal Cell Carcinoma: A type of skin cancer that begins in the basal cells— a type of cell within the skin that produces new skin cells as old ones die off.
  • Squamous Cell Carcinoma: A common form of skin cancer that develops in the squamous cells that make up the middle and outer layers of the skin.

Early detection is crucial as it offers the best chance for successful treatment. Veterans are particularly at risk due to increased exposure to ultraviolet (UV) radiation during their service. Recent legislative changes also recognize the connection between Gulf War exposures and skin cancer, especially melanoma.

Preparing for Your C&P Exam

Receiving Your Examination Packet

Before the exam, you will receive a packet detailing where and when your examination will be, who will conduct it, and their professional background. This could be a nurse practitioner, a physician assistant (PA), or a physician. Knowing these details can help you feel more prepared and less anxious.

Understanding the Disability Benefit Questionnaire (DBQ)

The C&P examiner will use a tool called the Disability Benefit Questionnaire (DBQ) during your exam. This form helps the VA determine the extent of your condition and its impact on your life. You can access the DBQs on the VA website (va.gov), which is a fantastic resource for veterans. Reviewing the skin disease DBQ before your exam can give you an idea of what to expect.

The C&P Examination Process

Initial Administrative Information

The DBQ starts with basic administrative information, including your name, social security number, and the specifics of who requested the DBQ. It also asks if the examiner is a VA healthcare provider and if they regularly see you in their clinic.

Medical History and Diagnosis

The examiner will document your medical history, focusing on the onset and progression of your skin condition. You’ll discuss when you first noticed the issue, when you were diagnosed, and any previous skin conditions that have since resolved. This section includes details on the type of skin cancer you have (melanoma, basal cell carcinoma, or squamous cell carcinoma), the ICD code (a diagnosis code used by medical professionals), and the date of diagnosis.

Treatment History

Next, the examiner will review your treatment history over the past 12 months. This includes any medications you’ve been taking, such as steroids or antihistamines, and any treatments like phototherapy, chemotherapy, or surgery. They will note the duration of these treatments, whether they were less than six weeks, six weeks or more but not constant, or near constant.

Physical Examination

During the physical examination, the examiner will check for visible lesions and determine the extent of the affected areas. They will document the percentage of your body affected by the condition, including specific regions like the face, neck, and hands. This section is crucial for understanding the severity of your condition.

Detailed Examination of Cancerous Conditions

For skin cancer specifically, the examiner will determine if you have a benign or malignant neoplasm. They will note whether the neoplasm is active or if you are in remission. If you had surgery, chemotherapy, radiation, or other treatments, the examiner will document these details. They will also consider any residual conditions or complications resulting from your cancer or its treatment.

Scarring and Functional Impact

Scarring is a common concern for skin cancer patients. If your condition has caused scarring, the examiner will fill out a separate DBQ for scars. They will also assess how your condition affects your ability to work. For example, if a melanoma on your finger impairs your ability to type, or if a melanoma on your eye affects your vision, these factors will be documented.

Additional Findings and Functional Impact

The examiner will also record any other physical findings or symptoms not previously mentioned. They will evaluate the overall functional impact of your condition on your daily life and work. This comprehensive assessment helps the VA determine the appropriate rating for your disability.

After the Examination

Examiner’s Certification and Signature

At the end of the DBQ, the examiner will certify and sign the document, including their area of practice and license number. This certification ensures that the examination was conducted thoroughly and professionally.

Utilizing VA Resources

Leah Bucholz emphasizes the value of the VA’s resources. The VA website offers extensive information on various conditions, including skin cancer, PTSD, and more. It also provides tools to find accredited legal professionals, claims agents, and VSOs if you need assistance with your claim.

Conclusion

A C&P exam for skin cancer involves a detailed review of your medical history, current condition, and the impact on your life. Understanding the process and knowing what to expect can help reduce anxiety. By familiarizing yourself with the DBQ and utilizing the resources available on va.gov, you can approach your examination with confidence and ensure that your condition is accurately assessed and documented.

Also read: Knee Pain Secondary to Ankle Pain in Veterans Disability

At Prestige Veteran Medical Consulting, a veteran-owned company, we specialize in Independent Medical Opinions (IMOs) known as Nexus letters.

Our purpose is to empower YOU, the veteran, to take charge of your medical evidence and provide you with valuable educational tools and research to guide you on your journey.

Understanding the unique challenges veterans face, our commitment lies in delivering exceptional service and support.

Leveraging an extensive network of licensed independent medical professionals, all well-versed in the medical professional aspects of the VA claims process, we review the necessary medical evidence to incorporate in our reports related to your VA Disability Claim.

Prestige Veteran Medical Consulting is not a law firm, accredited claims agent, or affiliated with the Veterans Administration or Veterans Services Organizations. However, we are happy to discuss your case with your accredited VA legal professional.

Picture of Alan Bucholz, PA-C

Alan Bucholz, PA-C

Board-Certified Physician Assistant | U.S. Army Combat Veteran | Co-founder & CFO, Prestige Veteran Medical Consulting

This article was medically reviewed and fact checked by Alan Bucholz, PA-C, a board-certified Physician Assistant and retired U.S. Army combat veteran with experience in emergency medicine and two combat deployments (Iraq & Afghanistan). As Co-founder of Prestige Veteran Medical Consulting, Alan provides evidence-based medical opinions to support veterans’ VA disability claims with accuracy, compliance, and ethics.

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