More than 24,000 veterans who received traumatic brain injury medical examinations were examined by medical providers who were not qualified to do so.
In 2007 the agency adopted a policy requiring that one of four specialists — a psychiatrist, physiatrist, neurosurgeon or neurologist — conduct traumatic brain examinations to ensure veterans are properly evaluated for disability compensation. However, a national review found medical examinations conducted in connection with disability compensation claims between 2007 and 2015 were not consistent with this policy.
"We let these veterans down," VA Secretary Robert McDonald said in a statement. "That is why we are taking every step necessary to grant equitable relief to those affected to ensure they receive the full benefits to which they are entitled."
The VA is now offering new examinations to all affected veterans.
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