How do Regional Offices (ROs) primarily request service treatment records?

Regional Offices (ROs) primarily use the Personnel Information Exchange System (PIES) to request service treatment records. PIES is specifically designed for the exchange of military personnel data and records between different entities within the Department of Veterans Affairs and the Department of Defense. This system allows ROs to efficiently and securely access the necessary records to support veterans’ claims processing.

Using PIES streamlines the workflow for obtaining service treatment records, ensuring that requests are managed electronically, which is faster and reduces the likelihood of delay or loss of information that can occur with physical mail. The electronic nature of PIES also allows for a more organized and systematic approach to record-keeping and retrieval.

While other methods of record retrieval, such as direct mail or requests to the National Archives, do exist, they are not the primary means by which ROs acquire service treatment records. The efficiency of PIES makes it the preferred choice for such requests, allowing ROs to fulfill their obligations to veterans swiftly and accurately.