Below you will find answers to the most common questions about VAC chiropractic care for veterans. For example, we cover disability claims, assessment costs, and how to get started with Dr. Brayall in Fredericton.
Frequently Asked Questions
Does VAC cover chiropractic care?
Veterans Affairs Canada (VAC) may cover chiropractic services for eligible veterans. For instance, coverage can come through the Rehabilitation Services and Vocational Assistance Program or through VAC health benefits, depending on your situation and approved benefits. We recommend contacting VAC directly at 1-866-522-2122 to confirm your specific coverage. Our team can also help you understand what documentation may be required. Learn more about our VAC disability reports and assessment fees.
Can a chiropractor write a report for a VAC disability claim?
Yes. A chiropractor is a regulated health professional and can provide a formal medical assessment and written report for a VAC disability claim or reassessment. Dr. Brayall’s reports address causation, functional impairment, chronicity, and the criteria VAC adjudicators use, including the Table of Disabilities and Entitlement Eligibility Guidelines.
What conditions can a VAC chiropractic report cover?
Dr. Brayall can prepare chiropractic assessment reports for a range of service-related musculoskeletal and neurological conditions. For example, these include chronic back and neck pain, sciatica, concussion and post-concussion syndrome, shoulder injuries, hip and knee conditions, and other musculoskeletal injuries related to military service.
What should I bring to a VAC chiropractic assessment appointment?
Please bring any relevant service records, prior medical or imaging reports, and VAC correspondence. Also include your Statement of Case (if applicable) and any records documenting the history of your condition. The more background you can provide, the more thorough and well-supported your report will be.
How long does a VAC chiropractic assessment take?
A dedicated VAC assessment appointment is typically longer than a standard treatment visit — generally 45 to 60 minutes — to allow for a complete history, thorough physical examination, and functional assessment. Report preparation follows the appointment.
VAC denied my claim. Can a chiropractic report help with a reassessment or VRAB appeal?
A well-structured chiropractic report addressing the criteria VAC uses in adjudication can provide valuable support. This applies both to a reassessment request and to a Veterans Review and Appeal Board (VRAB) hearing. Dr. Brayall is familiar with the medical-legal requirements of the VAC process and can prepare reports accordingly.
Is Dr. Brayall familiar with the VAC claims process?
Yes. Dr. Brayall has working knowledge of the Veterans Well-being Act, VAC Entitlement Eligibility Guidelines (EEGs), and the Table of Disabilities — the primary frameworks used in VAC disability adjudication. He writes his reports to address these frameworks directly.
Do I need a referral to see Dr. Brayall?
No — you don’t need a referral. New patients are welcome. Simply call (506) 472-7000 or book online to schedule your appointment.
How much does a VAC disability assessment cost?
If your condition is already a pensioned condition covered for chiropractic care, the visit costs you nothing. Otherwise, we bill it as a standard new patient visit through Fredericton Family Chiropractic — see our Cost page for details. Still unsure? Call our office at (506) 472-7000 to discuss your specific situation. Moreover, we will explain the fees clearly before you book any appointment.
How long does an assessment appointment take?
A typical VAC disability assessment appointment is approximately 60 minutes. During this time, Dr. Brayall will conduct a thorough clinical examination, review your medical history and service records, and perform the functional and orthopaedic testing required to write a comprehensive report for VAC adjudication.
How long does it take to receive my report?
Turnaround time depends on the complexity of your case. Dr. Brayall will provide an estimated timeline at your appointment. He writes each report to be thorough and accurate, addressing the specific criteria VAC adjudicators use to evaluate claims. In other words, we prioritize quality over speed.
Do RCMP members qualify for VAC chiropractic benefits?
Yes. Serving and retired RCMP members may be eligible for VAC chiropractic care and disability assessments through Veterans Affairs Canada, just like Canadian Armed Forces veterans. RCMP members with service-related musculoskeletal conditions can access both treatment and medical-legal reports through our clinic. Visit our RCMP chiropractic care page for more information.
Do reservists qualify for VAC benefits?
Reservists who have service-related injuries or conditions may be eligible for VAC benefits, including VAC chiropractic care and disability compensation. Eligibility depends on factors such as your class of service, whether the condition relates to your duties, and your release status. Contact VAC at 1-866-522-2122 to confirm your eligibility, or call our office and we can help you understand what documentation you may need.
Can I get a VAC assessment if I was released years ago?
Yes. There is no time limit on filing a VAC disability claim. Many veterans file claims years or even decades after release, particularly as conditions worsen over time. Dr. Brayall regularly works with veterans who are filing first-time claims well after their service ended. If your condition links back to your military service, you may still be entitled to benefits — no matter when you released.
Can I use a chiropractic report for a VRAB appeal?
Yes. If VAC denied your claim or you received a lower assessment than expected, a detailed chiropractic report can be submitted as new evidence in support of a departmental review or Veterans Review and Appeal Board (VRAB) appeal. Dr. Brayall’s reports are written specifically for the adjudication framework and can address gaps or weaknesses in the original medical evidence.
Where is Fredericton Family Chiropractic located?
Fredericton Family Chiropractic is located in Fredericton, NB, and serves veterans from Fredericton, Oromocto, and surrounding communities. Call (506) 472-7000 for directions and appointment availability.