What action does the VA take if there are private medical records indicated by the claimant but not yet received?

The action taken by the VA when there are private medical records indicated by the claimant but not yet received is to hold the claim awaiting medical evidence. This is important because the VA recognizes the necessity of having all relevant medical documentation in order to make an informed decision regarding a claim. By holding the claim rather than denying it outright or issuing a decision, the VA is providing the claimant an opportunity to submit the necessary medical records that could potentially support their case.

This ensures that claimants are not unfairly disadvantaged if their claims are incomplete due to missing evidence. The process is designed to be thorough and fair, allowing sufficient time for the claimant to obtain and submit the required documentation before a final determination is made. Therefore, holding the claim provides a fair and just approach to veterans’ claims processing.