informal conferences, see M21-1, Part I, 5.C.5, and formal hearings, see M21-1, Part I, 4. f. Request for If it appears has been altered in an attempt to request a hearing at VA Form 9 RO Hearings the RO, write or call the appellant to clarify whether the RO hearing is requested in addition to the BVA hearing, or in place of the BVA hearing. Document the results of any telephone conversation on a Note: VA Form Report of General Information. g. Request for Do not Medical Examinations request medical examinations solely because an appeal is pending, or defer action on an appeal pending the completion of any scheduled medical examination unless the examination is related to the issue under appeal, or necessary to properly decide the claim. 3. Handling New Issues Raised on a Substantive Appeal This topic contains information about handling new issues raised on a Introduction substantive appeal, including determining when to accept new issues raised on a substantive appeal, and processing new issues raised on a substantive appeal. Change Date December 21, 2015 a. Determining The table below describes when to accept claim or appeal issues raised on a When to Accept substantive appeal. New Issues Raised on a Substantive Appeal Type of Issue Date Substantive Action Required Appeal Received
informal conferences, see M21-1, Part I, 5.C.5, and formal hearings, see M21-1, Part I, 4. f. Request for RO Hearings If it appears VA Form 9 has been altered in an attempt to request a hearing at the RO, write or call the appellant to clarify whether the RO hearing is requested in addition to the BVA hearing, or in place of the BVA hearing. Note: Document the results of any telephone conversation on a VA Form Report of General Information. g. Request for Medical Examinations Do not request medical examinations solely because an appeal is pending, or defer action on an appeal pending the completion of any scheduled medical examination unless the examination is related to the issue under appeal, or necessary to properly decide the claim. 3. Handling New Issues Raised on a Substantive Appeal Introduction This topic contains information about handling new issues raised on a substantive appeal, including determining when to accept new issues raised on a substantive appeal, and processing new issues raised on a substantive appeal. Change Date December 21, 2015 a. Determining When to Accept New Issues Raised on a Substantive Appeal The table below describes when to accept claim or appeal issues raised on a substantive appeal. Type of Issue Date Substantive Appeal Received Action Required