In some instances, the PC may not be aware that the requested development:
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will entail a delay that may result in a hardship for the claimant; or
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involves an extremely sensitive situation.
In such instances, the FO should telephone the requester to discuss the situation
and explore whether alternative methods or evidence can be used to document the file
properly. If equivalent evidence is available, it should be forwarded together with
an explanation of the situation.
If the FO disagrees with the request for assistance and the issue cannot be resolved
between the FO and PC managers, the FO may:
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Send a memorandum to the ARC, PCO of the requesting PC (do not use the telephone to
protest a questionable request).
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Send the memorandum by mail, E-Mail or Fax. If sending by mail, mark the envelope
“PROTEST MEMO” to facilitate a faster reply.
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Development on the request will not be stopped as this could cause a delay in processing
the claims action. The ARC, PCO will respond directly to the FO.
If the response does not resolve the issue, the FO may submit the question to the
ARC, MOS in the FO's regional office.