Duty to Assist
VA Terminology Definition
Plain English Definition
The VA's legal obligation to help you gather evidence for your claim - including obtaining medical records and scheduling C&P exams.
Why This Matters
The VA must make reasonable efforts to help veterans obtain evidence. This includes requesting service records, VA medical records, and identified private records. However, veterans are ultimately responsible for ensuring the VA has what it needs.
Example
You tell the VA you were treated at a private hospital. Under duty to assist, the VA must attempt to obtain those records on your behalf (with your authorization).