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The Veteran's Clinic

Our clinic in Peoria, IL exclusively serves veterans for their annual exams, disability exams, active duty exams, and post deployment exams. We provide services by appointment only.

Medical Services For Veterans

Learn more about the services we offer and schedule your appointment.

Wheelchair Accessibility

Disability Exams

The C&P exam assesses the severity of a veteran’s condition(s) claimed as service-connected disabilities. The results help the VA decide whether the condition is related to military service and assign a disability rating, which determines compensation levels.

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Annual Exams

Annual exams provided to veterans in the USA are part of the Veterans Affairs (VA) healthcare system and are designed to maintain overall health and detect issues early. These exams typically include a range of screenings and tests tailored to the veteran's age, health status, and specific needs.

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Military Ceremony

Active Military Exams

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Ear Exam

Post-Deployment Exams

A USA Veteran Post-Deployment Exam, often part of the Post-Deployment Health Reassessment (PDHRA) or a related VA evaluation, is designed to assess the physical and mental health of service members and veterans after returning from deployment. This exam helps identify and address health concerns that may arise due to service-related exposures, injuries, or stressors experienced during deployment.

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Disability Exam Details

Veteran Disability Exam Components

  • Medical History Review

    • The examiner reviews the veteran’s service treatment records and any other relevant medical documents.

    • Veterans may be asked about the onset, frequency, and severity of symptoms.

  • Physical Examination

    • Depending on the claimed condition, a physical examination may be conducted to assess functional limitations and severity.

    • For example:

      • Orthopedic issues: Range of motion tests.

      • Mental health issues: Psychological evaluations.

      • Hearing loss: Audiometric testing.

  • Diagnostic Testing (if applicable)

    • Tests like X-rays, MRIs, blood work, or hearing exams might be ordered to gather additional evidence.

  • Symptom Discussion

    • Veterans are asked to describe how the condition affects daily life, work, and relationships.

    • For mental health claims, this might include a discussion of mood, behavior, and cognitive function.

  • Functional Impact Assessment

    • The examiner may evaluate how the condition affects a veteran's ability to perform typical tasks, both occupational and recreational.

 

Who Conducts the Exam

  • The exam is performed by a VA healthcare provider or a contracted medical professional with expertise in the relevant field.

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What It Is Not

  • The C&P exam is not a treatment session. Its purpose is strictly for evaluation, not for providing medical care or recommendations.

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After the Exam

  1. Examiner's Report

    • The examiner submits a report summarizing findings to the VA.

  2. Decision

    • The VA uses this report, along with other evidence, to determine service connection and assign a disability rating.

  3. Notification

    • Veterans are informed of the VA’s decision via mail.

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Preparation Tips

  • Bring documentation: Medical records, lay statements, or notes on how the condition impacts daily life.

  • Be honest and detailed: Explain symptoms thoroughly and avoid downplaying issues.

  • Arrive early: Ensure you're on time to reduce stress and complete any preliminary paperwork.

 

This exam is a critical step in the VA disability claims process and can significantly impact the benefits a veteran receives.

Disability
Active Military

Active Military Exams

Types of Active Military Exams

  1. Entrance Exam (MEPS Physical)

    • Conducted at the Military Entrance Processing Station (MEPS) for individuals seeking to join the armed forces.

  2. Periodic Health Assessments (PHA)

    • Regular evaluations for active-duty members to ensure they remain fit for duty.

 

Purpose

  • Entrance Exam: Determines if an applicant meets the physical and medical standards required for enlistment.

  • Periodic Health Assessments: Monitors ongoing health and readiness for deployment or continued service.

 

Components of the Exam

1. Medical History Review

  • Entrance Exam: Applicants fill out a detailed medical history form (DD Form 2807-1).

  • PHA: Service members update their health records with any new conditions, treatments, or concerns.

2. Physical Examination

  • General Health Check: Includes evaluation of height, weight, blood pressure, pulse, and vision.

  • Hearing Test: Measures the ability to detect sound frequencies.

  • Mobility and Strength Tests: Assess flexibility, joint function, and musculoskeletal health.

  • Heart and Lung Check: Stethoscope exam to detect irregularities.

  • Abdominal Exam: Checks for hernias or other abnormalities.

3. Laboratory Tests

  • Blood tests for conditions like anemia, infections, or cholesterol levels.

  • Urine analysis to check for kidney function, glucose levels, or drug screening (for entrance exams).

4. Vision and Hearing

  • Vision tests determine acuity, color perception, and depth perception.

  • Hearing tests measure ability to detect varying sound frequencies.

5. Specialized Evaluations (if needed)

  • If a specific condition is noted, further testing or specialist consultations may be required.

6. Mental Health Screening

  • Includes questions or evaluations related to stress, anxiety, depression, and overall mental wellness.

  • For periodic assessments, this may also address combat stress or PTSD.

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Additional Requirements

  • Entrance Exams:

    • Applicants may undergo additional tests based on their desired job specialty (e.g., aviation or diving roles).

    • Fitness standards for specific branches of the military may also apply.

  • PHA:

    • Deployment-specific evaluations may be conducted if the service member is preparing for overseas duty.

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Outcome

  • Entrance Exam:

    • Applicants are classified as:

      • Qualified: Meets all medical and physical standards.

      • Temporarily Disqualified: Requires further testing or recovery from an acute condition.

      • Permanently Disqualified: Does not meet the requirements for military service.

  • PHA:

    • Determines if the service member is deployable or requires medical treatment before returning to duty.

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Preparation Tips

  • Be honest about medical history to avoid complications later.

  • Follow pre-exam instructions, such as fasting for blood tests or avoiding strenuous exercise beforehand.

  • Bring necessary documents like medical records, prescriptions, or specialist letters.

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These exams ensure that individuals joining or serving in the military are physically and mentally capable of meeting the rigorous demands of military service.

Post Deployment Exams

Purpose

  • Evaluate the veteran's overall health following deployment.

  • Identify and treat any physical or mental health conditions linked to deployment experiences.

  • Document health issues for potential VA disability claims.

  • Provide preventive care and referrals to specialists as needed.

 

Timing

The PDHRA is typically conducted 90 to 180 days after returning from deployment, as some conditions, particularly mental health issues, may take time to manifest. Veterans can also request follow-up exams later through the VA if new health concerns arise.

 

Components of the Post-Deployment Exam

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1. Health History Review

  • Detailed discussion of medical history, including any changes since deployment.

  • Review of environmental exposures (e.g., burn pits, chemicals, or hazardous materials).

  • Discussion of injuries, illnesses, or symptoms experienced during or after deployment.

2. Physical Examination

  • Comprehensive physical checkup:

    • Assessment of heart, lungs, and other vital organ functions.

    • Examination of joints, muscles, and any residual effects from injuries.

    • Evaluation of skin for rashes, infections, or other conditions linked to environmental exposure.

3. Mental Health Screening

  • Screening for conditions such as:

    • Post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD).

    • Depression and anxiety.

    • Sleep disturbances, including insomnia or nightmares.

    • Substance use disorders.

  • Veterans may complete standardized questionnaires like the PCL-5 (PTSD Checklist) or PHQ-9 (Depression Assessment).

  • Referrals to mental health professionals if needed.

4. Exposure-Related Health Assessments

  • Evaluation of conditions linked to deployment-specific exposures, including:

    • Respiratory issues from burn pits or sand/dust inhalation.

    • Gulf War Syndrome-related symptoms (if applicable).

    • Long-term effects of toxic chemical exposure, such as Agent Orange.

5. Laboratory Testing

  • Routine tests, including blood work and urinalysis, to check for underlying issues like infections, liver/kidney function, or anemia.

  • Specialized tests based on deployment exposures, such as heavy metal screening or pulmonary function tests.

6. Vision and Hearing Tests

  • Assessment of vision and hearing, especially for veterans exposed to loud noises or blast injuries during deployment.

7. Women’s Health Services (if applicable)

  • Tailored evaluations for female veterans, including reproductive health and screenings for deployment-related health concerns.

8. Lifestyle and Readjustment Counseling

  • Guidance on transitioning back to civilian life or stateside duty.

  • Tips for managing stress, rebuilding relationships, and establishing healthy routines.

9. Documentation and Referrals

  • Documentation of findings for VA health records and potential disability claims.

  • Referrals to specialists for conditions requiring advanced care (e.g., cardiologists, psychologists, or respiratory specialists).

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Common Conditions Monitored

  • Physical Conditions:

    • Musculoskeletal injuries, chronic pain, respiratory issues, or gastrointestinal problems.

  • Mental Health Issues:

    • PTSD, depression, anxiety, or adjustment disorders.

  • Environmental Exposure Concerns:

    • Long-term effects of toxic exposures, including cancers or chronic respiratory conditions.

Post Deployment

Purpose of Annual Exams

  • Monitor overall health and detect any early signs of medical conditions.

  • Address ongoing medical issues or new health concerns.

  • Ensure veterans maintain the necessary level of fitness for their lifestyle and activities.

 

 

Components of the Annual Exam

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1. Health History Review

  • Review of personal and family medical history.

  • Discussion of current medications, supplements, and allergies.

  • Assessment of lifestyle factors such as diet, exercise, smoking, and alcohol use.

2. Physical Examination

  • General physical checkup, including:

    • Height, weight, and body mass index (BMI).

    • Blood pressure and pulse.

    • Examination of the heart, lungs, abdomen, and musculoskeletal system.

3. Hearing Screening

  • Audiometric tests to detect hearing loss or changes, common among veterans due to noise exposure during service.

4. Vision Screening

  • Visual acuity tests to evaluate eyesight.

  • Screening for conditions like glaucoma, cataracts, or macular degeneration.

5. Laboratory Tests

  • Basic Blood Work:

    • Complete blood count (CBC) to assess overall health.

    • Metabolic panel to check kidney and liver function, blood sugar levels, and electrolytes.

    • Lipid profile to monitor cholesterol and triglyceride levels.

  • Urinalysis: Detects kidney problems, infections, or diabetes.

  • Special Tests (as needed):

    • Prostate-specific antigen (PSA) for prostate health (for men over 50).

    • Hemoglobin A1C for diabetes screening.

    • Thyroid function tests.

6. Mental Health Screening

  • Assessment of mental well-being, including screening for depression, anxiety, PTSD, and substance use disorders.

  • Referrals to counseling or mental health services if needed.

7. Preventive Screenings

  • Cancer screenings (e.g., colorectal, skin, or breast cancer).

  • Bone density tests for osteoporosis (especially for older veterans).

  • Immunizations: Influenza, pneumococcal, shingles, and tetanus vaccines as recommended.

Annual
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