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Evidence checklist

Parkinson's Disease

DC 800438 CFR § 4.124aNeurological

Evidence strength

Mark what you already have below and your evidence strength appears here.

Target
Saved locally
01

Specialist opinion

Highest value0 of 3 collected
Neurologist evaluation documenting motor features and UPDRS scoreCritical

A movement disorder specialist's evaluation documenting the cardinal features of Parkinson's (resting tremor, rigidity, bradykinesia, postural instability) and Unified Parkinson's Disease Rating Scale (UPDRS) score.

Private provider · independent opinion
DaTscan or SPECT imaging showing dopamine transporter deficit

Nuclear medicine imaging showing reduced dopamine transporter uptake in the striatum, which distinguishes Parkinson's from essential tremor and supports the diagnosis.

Private provider · independent opinion
Nexus opinion or Agent Orange/burn pit presumptive documentationCritical

Parkinson's disease is a VA-recognized presumptive condition for veterans exposed to Agent Orange/herbicides. Document qualifying service locations. Otherwise, obtain a nexus opinion.

Private provider · independent opinion
02

Treating physician

0 of 1 collected
Functional assessment documenting ADL limitations

Occupational therapy evaluation or treating physician statement documenting limitations in activities of daily living caused by tremor, rigidity, and bradykinesia.

Your treating provider · written request
03

Treatment records

0 of 1 collected
Treatment records (levodopa, dopamine agonists, DBS)

Records documenting medication regimen, on/off motor fluctuations, response to levodopa, and any deep brain stimulation (DBS) procedure.

VA or private records · written request
04

Lay statements

0 of 2 collected
Buddy statement from spouse, family, or fellow service member

A written statement from someone who can describe observable symptoms and how your condition affects daily life.

You or a witness · VA Form 21-4138 or 21-10210How to get this →
Personal statement describing symptoms and functional impact

Your own written account of how this condition affects your daily activities, work, and relationships. Describe your worst days.

You or a witness · VA Form 21-4138 or 21-10210How to get this →
05

Benefits questionnaire

0 of 1 collected
Completed DBQ Parkinson's DiseaseCritical

VA standardized form for Parkinson's capturing motor symptoms, cognition, and functional status for rating under DC 8004.

Provider-completed · VA DBQ formHow to get this →
06

Service records

0 of 1 collected
Service treatment records (STRs)Critical

Military medical records showing in-service treatment, complaints, or injuries related to this condition.

NPRC / milConnect · SF-180

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