Converting Medical Records To PDF

A Step-by-Step Guide

Why PDF Files

PDFs streamline our review process, enabling quicker evaluations and faster nexus letter returns. To assist with various digital file formats, we've created a guide to help convert your documents to PDF.
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Compatibility

PDFs are universally accessible on almost any device and operating system, ensuring your documents can be opened anywhere.
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Consistency

PDFs maintain their formatting, layout, and appearance across all platforms, delivering the same viewing experience to every user.
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Integrity

PDFs secure original content and design, protecting against unauthorized changes to ensure reliability.
Digital Images

Digital Images

Physical documents like your DD214 or medical records that you’ve scanned or taken photos of, ending in image formats like .jpeg.jpg.png.bmp.tif,.img, or .tiff.

Steps to Convert
  1. First, install a PDF printer (like “Microsoft Print to PDF” on Windows) or conversion software (Adobe Acrobat or free tools like Smallpdf).
  2.  Locate the image on your computer.
  3. Right-click the file and select Open With a program that allows printing (e.g., Windows Photo Viewer, Preview on Mac).
  4. In the program, go to File > Print.
  5. In the printer selection, choose Microsoft Print to PDF on Windows or Save as PDF on Mac.
  6. In the save dialog, choose where to save the file, name it, and click Save.

Microsoft Word & Notes

These are documents that you or someone else has typed up, like buddy statements or personal letters, typically saved in formats like .doc.docx, or .rtf.

Steps To Convert
  1. Open the document in Microsoft Word
  2. Go to File > Save As
  3. In the dialog box, choose where you want to save your file.
  4. Click Save
Microsoft Word and Notes
Excel Spreadsheet

Excel Files

Excel is used for spreadsheets, where you might track medical treatments or create lists. Files are saved as .xls or .xlsx.

Steps To Convert
  1. Open your spreadsheet in Microsoft Excel
  2. Navigate to File > Save As
  3. Choose your save location
  4. In the Save As type dropdown, select PDF
  5. Hit Save

Downloaded Reports

These are reports you’ve downloaded, such as your Blue Button report from medical services, commonly ending in .txt.

Steps To Convert
  1. Open the report in a text editor or Microsoft Word
  2. Go to File > Save As or File > Print
  3. Choose PDF as the save format or Print to PDF
  4. Save or Print the document as a PDF
Reports
Digital Medical Records

Converting Paper to PDF

At this time we do not accept hard copy medical records and only accept your medical documents in PDF format. We understand that not all essential documents are readily available in a digital format. To assist you, we offer the following suggestions for converting your documents: 
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Mobile Apps

Free and low-cost mobile scanning apps (such as Adobe Scan or CamScanner) allow you to use your smartphone to scan documents and save them as PDFs.
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Local Services

Most local libraries or print shops (like FedEx or Staples) offer scanning services that can convert your hard copies into digital files.
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Home Scanner

If you have access to a home scanner, you can easily scan your documents and save them as PDFs on your computer.
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Medical Provider

Many medical providers can provide you with a digital copy of your medical records upon request. Ask your provider to email the documents directly to you or save them on a USB drive.
We Are Happy To Help

Still Have Questions?

Still Have Questions
Looking For VA Files

Need To Find Your Records?

Need to turn JPEGs, PNGs, Word documents or other digital files into PDFs? Our quick guide simplifies the process, ensuring your files are universally compatible and secure.

Dive into our straightforward steps for converting any file to PDF, using online tools or built-in software.