Routine Future Exam (RFE)
VA Terminology Definition
Plain English Definition
A follow-up C&P exam the VA schedules to see if your condition has improved or worsened since your last evaluation.
Why This Matters
Not all conditions get routine exams. Static conditions may be rated permanent. Conditions likely to improve get scheduled reviews, often at 2-5 year intervals. Missing an RFE can result in rating suspension.
Example
Two years after your initial PTSD rating, you receive a letter scheduling a routine future exam. The VA wants to assess whether your symptoms have changed since your last evaluation.