When is a supplemental statement of the case required to be provided?

A supplemental statement of the case is necessary when the original statement of the case becomes inadequate. This could occur if the initial evaluation does not fully address the issues or if new evidence has surfaced that alters the context of the claim. The purpose of providing a supplemental statement is to ensure that the veteran is given a fair opportunity to respond to any new evidence or changes in position before any final decisions are made regarding their claim.

While additional medical evidence submitted can sometimes prompt a supplemental statement, it usually needs to be accompanied by inadequacies or gaps in the original statement to warrant a supplemental statement. Hence, the condition that triggers this requirement is fundamentally tied to the need for thoroughness and fairness in the decision-making process.