Army Physical Disability Evaluation System (APDES) 

An Overview of the MEB/PEB Process 

LTC Dorough 

UNCLASSIFIED 

17 Jan 08

 
 
 
 

Army Physical Disability Evaluation System 

UNCLASSIFIED 

LTC Dorough, DSN 471-8763 /marsha.dorough@us.army.mil 

2  

OUTLINE 

• The Physical Profile
• MMRB
• Medical Evaluation Board (MEB) Process/Case flow
  • Role of the Physician
  • Role of the Physical Evaluation Board Liaison Officer (PEBLO)
  • Role of the Case Manager (CM)
  • Role of the Commander
  • Role of the Soldier
• Components of the MEB Packet
• MEB Dispositions and Appeals
• PEB Process, Dispositions, and Appeals
• Physical Evaluation Board (PEB)/Physical Disability Agency (PDA)
• Confidentiality, My MEB, APDES booklet
• Army vs. Veterans Affairs (VA) Disposition
• Medical Evaluation Board Internal Tracking Tool (MEBITT)
• Resources for the Soldier and the Triad
• Questions

 
 
 

PURPOSE: To provide an overview of the Army Physical Disability Evaluation System (APDES) and to inform key personnel of their responsibilities for the APDES. 
 

UNCLASSIFIED

 
 
 
 

Army Physical Disability Evaluation System 

UNCLASSIFIED 

LTC Dorough, DSN 471-8763 /marsha.dorough@us.army.mil 

3  

It all starts with the Physical Profile

DA Form 3349

 
 
 
 

Army Physical Disability Evaluation System 

UNCLASSIFIED 

LTC Dorough, DSN 471-8763 /marsha.dorough@us.army.mil 

4  

Who Gets a Copy of the Profile? 

• ORIGINAL in Soldier’s medical record
• One copy to Unit CDR
• One copy to Soldier
• One copy to MPD (Military Personnel Division) or Personnel Service Center (PSC), as applicable. (For ARNGUS soldiers, the State Military Personnel Office (MILPO)

 
 
 
 

Army Physical Disability Evaluation System 

UNCLASSIFIED 

LTC Dorough, DSN 471-8763 /marsha.dorough@us.army.mil 

5  

Physical Profile – DA Form 3349 
 

• All Soldiers issued a permanent profile with a “3” or “4” in PULHES will be referred to either the Physical Performance Evaluation System for an MMRB or the Army Physical Disability Evaluation System for an MEB (Medical Evaluation Board)

 

• Permanent “3” or “4” profiles – physician needs to determine if limitation meets retention criteria IAW Ch 3, AR 40-501

 

• If the Soldier meets retention criteria, MMRB is mandatory

 

• If the Soldier does not meet retention criteria, entry into the physical disability (MEB / PEB) system is mandatory

 

• The DA 3349 requires profiling officer to check either a MMRB or MEB / PEB box (Block 4c)

 
 
 
 

Army Physical Disability Evaluation System 

UNCLASSIFIED 

LTC Dorough, DSN 471-8763 /marsha.dorough@us.army.mil 

6  

• Review profile, evaluate appropriateness,  determine if soldier can perform mission required by his/her PMOS or duty assignment
  • If a Soldier has recurrent temporary profiles, the commander may refer to a medical provider for a “fitness for duty evaluation.”

 

• Complete the “Action by Unit Commander” section of the profile

 

• Contact Physician to discuss profile (if needed)

 

• Provide the S-1/Human Resources profile data for USR proposes. Soldiers with a P3/P4 profile should be reported unavailable for deployment/PCS on USR until cleared through MMRB/PEB.

 

    

Unit Commander Actions for the Physical Profile

 
 
 
 

Army Physical Disability Evaluation System 

UNCLASSIFIED 

LTC Dorough, DSN 471-8763 /marsha.dorough@us.army.mil 

7  

Physical Performance Evaluation System PPES/MMRB 

• PPES - designed to evaluate Soldiers with permanent medical conditions through MMRB
  • Determine if Soldier can perform satisfactorily in their PMOS in a worldwide field environment
  • Provide continuity of effort among CDRs, Physicians, Personnel and the Physical Disability system.
  • Allows CDRs to evaluate the physical abilities of their Soldiers and determine if referral into the APDES is necessary.
• Reference:  AR 600-60.

 
 
 
 

Army Physical Disability Evaluation System 

UNCLASSIFIED 

LTC Dorough, DSN 471-8763 /marsha.dorough@us.army.mil 

8  

MMRB 
(MOS Medical Retention Board) 

• Not a “medical board” per se – is a administrative board to determine capacity to serve in current MOS / AOC under worldwide deployable conditions

 

• Monthly board:
  • O-6/BDE CDR, Field Grade Medical Officer, CSM, 2 x 1SG, Recorder w/o vote
  • 5 Officers (if the Soldier is an officer)

 

• Possible Outcomes:

 

    - Retain, Reclassify, Trial of Duty, Refer to MEB 

• Proceedings approved by GCMCA (or designee)

 
 
 
 

Army Physical Disability Evaluation System 

UNCLASSIFIED 

LTC Dorough, DSN 471-8763 /marsha.dorough@us.army.mil 

9  

Medical Evaluation Board (MEB)  

• The MEB Process begins when optimum medical care has been reached or when the physician determines the Soldier will not be able to return to duty

 

• Designed to evaluate the Soldier’s medical condition(s) to determine if they do or do not meet the Medical Retention Standards IAW AR 40-501, Chapter 3 

 

• Documents the Soldier’s medical condition(s) and duty limitations

 

• Refers the Soldier to the Physical Evaluation Board (PEB), when the findings and recommendations stipulate they do not meet retention standards or when referred by an MMRB

 

• Does not mean the Soldier is automatically discharged from military service

 
 
 
 

Army Physical Disability Evaluation System 

UNCLASSIFIED 

LTC Dorough, DSN 471-8763 /marsha.dorough@us.army.mil 

10  

A Medical Board is NOT... 

• A “MOS reclassification Board”

     -- reclassification is considered by the MOS/Medical Retention Board (MMRB) for Soldiers with P3 who meet retention standards 

• The Soldier WILL NOT sit in front of a panel of board members

 

• The MEB is an informal process comprised of at least two

    physicians who compile, assess, and evaluate the Soldier’s

    medical history to determine if your duty is affected by their

    medical status 
 

 
 
 
 

Army Physical Disability Evaluation System 

UNCLASSIFIED 

LTC Dorough, DSN 471-8763 /marsha.dorough@us.army.mil 

11  

Medical Evaluation Board (MEB) 

• Soldier can NOT RECLASSIFY at this point (note:  currently under review for possible change)

 

• Informal board at the Medical Treatment Facility (MTF)

 

• Documents Soldier’s medical status and duty limitations to determine if duty is affected by their medical status

 

• Unit Commanders authorized to refer Soldiers to MTF for evaluation if Soldier cannot perform duties
  • Refer to Soldier’s Primary Care Manger (PCM)
  • Can be in writing on a DD Form 689

 

• References:  AR 40-400, AR 635-40

 
 
 
 

Army Physical Disability Evaluation System 

UNCLASSIFIED 

LTC Dorough, DSN 471-8763 /marsha.dorough@us.army.mil 

12  

The Disability Case Flow 

Physical Evaluation Board 

Physical Disability Agency 

Transition Center 

Medical Evaluation Board 

Physical Evaluation Board Liaison Officer 

Orders 

New Cases 

Active Component 

Reserve Component 

TDRL

 
 
 
 

Army Physical Disability Evaluation System 

UNCLASSIFIED 

LTC Dorough, DSN 471-8763 /marsha.dorough@us.army.mil 

13  

Role Of The Physician 
 

• Apply the Medical Retention Standards as dictated in AR 40-501
• Responsible for all elements dictated in the Physician Phase
• Complete Narrative Summary (NARSUM) and Profile IAW PDA Medical Examiners Guidance
• Ensure the NARSUM is consistent with all profiles

 
 
 
 

Army Physical Disability Evaluation System 

UNCLASSIFIED 

LTC Dorough, DSN 471-8763 /marsha.dorough@us.army.mil 

14  

Role Of The Physical Evaluation Board Liaison Officer (PEBLO) 
 

• The PEBLO counsels the Soldier or if the MTF determines that Soldier is not mentally competent; the PEBLO counsels the designated next-of-kin on MEB/PEB findings, related rights and benefits 
• Once notified of MEB initiation, the PEBLO will contact Soldier and schedule an initial briefing
• PEBLO Counseling Checklist (DA Form 5893–R): PEBLO use this form to counsel Soldiers throughout the process. This document will be signed by the PEBLO and the Soldier at the time of PEB election and forwarded for inclusion in the record of proceedings
• Provides the Soldier with authoritative and timely answers to their questions

 
 
 
 

Army Physical Disability Evaluation System 

UNCLASSIFIED 

LTC Dorough, DSN 471-8763 /marsha.dorough@us.army.mil 

15  

Role Of The Physical Evaluation Board Liaison Officer (PEBLO) 

• Schedules Physical Examinations
• Coordinate with the Case Manager for necessary Board related Medical Appointments and Consults
• The PEBLO will prepare and mail the request for the Commander’s Evaluation Letter and personnel/administrative data
• Educate the Soldier and the Command on the PDES process
• Advise the Command on the Soldier’s progress
• Ensure MEB packet is prepared and distributed in a timely, complete, and accurate manner to the PEB

 
 
 
 

Army Physical Disability Evaluation System 

UNCLASSIFIED 

LTC Dorough, DSN 471-8763 /marsha.dorough@us.army.mil 

16  

Role Of The Case Manager 
 

• Facilitate the timely scheduling of MEB appointments and coordinating results of specialty consults
• Closely manage appointments for Soldiers undergoing MEB processing
• Consult with PEBLO reference status of required clinical evaluations/documentation, appointments, required orders needed for extension on active duty
• Assist Medical Officer with execution of individual Soldier Plan of Care
• Assists all team members, particularly Soldier/Family Member, to establish realistic, measurable goals with consideration to desires of patient and benefit limitations, available resources

 
 
 
 

Army Physical Disability Evaluation System 

UNCLASSIFIED 

LTC Dorough, DSN 471-8763 /marsha.dorough@us.army.mil 

17  

Role Of The Commander 

• Prepare the Commander’s Letter
• Provide Line of Duty (LOD) to the Soldier (note:  most MEBs do not require an LODI in order to go to the PEB)
• Ensure all applicable personnel/administrative information requested by the PEBLO is provided
• Maintain accountability and visibility of the Soldier

 
 
 
 

Army Physical Disability Evaluation System 

UNCLASSIFIED 

LTC Dorough, DSN 471-8763 /marsha.dorough@us.army.mil 

18  

Role Of The Soldier 

• Attend all appointments – contact counselor if unable to make an appointment with no shows will be reported to Soldier’s Commander
• Complete the History Form prior to physical
• Must complete comprehensive Physical Exam
• Assist the Command in providing required personnel/administrative data:
  • Leave and Earning Statement (LES)
  • Enlisted Record Brief (ERB)/Officer Record Brief (ORB)
  • Last 3 Non-Commissioned Officer Evaluation Reports (NCOERs)/Officer Evaluation Reports (OERs)
  • Army Physical Fitness Test (APFT) 
  • Provide copies of Approved Retirement or Separation Orders
  • Provide copies of Orders for recent promotions or demotions
• Concur/Non-concur with all outcomes from PEBLO counseling within the scope of rights/benefits and Due Process afforded to the Soldier

 
 
 
 

Army Physical Disability Evaluation System 

UNCLASSIFIED 

LTC Dorough, DSN 471-8763 /marsha.dorough@us.army.mil 

19  

What is in a Soldier’s MEB 
Personnel/Performance Data** 
 

•   ERB/ORB/PQR
•   Personnel Certificate is completed by the custodian of

      the Soldier’s 201 file (PSB)

•   Commander’s Evaluation Letter
•   NCOERs/OERs (E-5 And above) (Last 3)

     (if necessary)

•   APFT SCORECARD (Last 3 tests) (if necessary)
•   LES  (Current End of Month)
• DA Form 4187 (Name changes, loss of rank, promotions, etc)
• **RC Soldiers have additional requirements (see next slide).  

 

Note:  These administrative requirements are currently under review for reduction

 
 
 
 

Army Physical Disability Evaluation System 

UNCLASSIFIED 

LTC Dorough, DSN 471-8763 /marsha.dorough@us.army.mil 

20  

Reserve Component 
Personnel/Performance Data 

• Orders for all active duty periods – where injury/illness

     incurred

•   Reserves – Chronological Statement of Retirement Points 

     (ARPC 249-2-E) (commonly known as RPAS)

•   National Guard – Retirement Points History Statement

     (NG Form 23) (commonly known as RPAM)

•   Approved Line of Duty (if necessary)
•   20 Year Letter if applicable

 
 
 
 

Army Physical Disability Evaluation System 

UNCLASSIFIED 

LTC Dorough, DSN 471-8763 /marsha.dorough@us.army.mil 

21  

MEB Process 

• After completion of the MEB, the Soldier will be counseled and they will review the MEB findings and recommendations

 

• They can consult with a lawyer from the Office of the Special Counsel (OSC) or some other advocate before signing the MEB. 

 

• The MEB will only state the Soldier does or does not meet retention standards IAW AR 40-501, Chapter 3

 

• The Soldier will receive a copy of their MEB and supporting documents for their files.

 
 
 
 

Army Physical Disability Evaluation System 

UNCLASSIFIED 

LTC Dorough, DSN 471-8763 /marsha.dorough@us.army.mil 

22  

MEB Dispositions 

• Generally, If the Soldier meets retention standards within the limits of their profile they are returned to duty in their MOS.

 

• If the Soldier does not meet retentions standards, their case will be referred to the Physical Evaluation Board (PEB) for further disposition

 

• If the MEB is a MOS/Medical Retention Board (MMRB) directed MEB, their case is forwarded to the Physical Evaluation Board (PEB), even though they meet retention standards.  If profile is upgraded to P2 and the Soldier meets retention standards, they are RTD

 
 
 
 

Army Physical Disability Evaluation System 

UNCLASSIFIED 

LTC Dorough, DSN 471-8763 /marsha.dorough@us.army.mil 

23  

Can the Soldier appeal the MEB? 

• YES - If the Soldier disagrees with any portion of their Medical Board, they have the right to appeal it.

 

• The Soldier will have 3 working days to submit a written appeal stating why/what they disagree with on the MEB

 

• The OSC can assist the Soldier with their appeal.

 

• The written appeal is then submitted to the Deputy Commander for Clinical Services (DCCS) for further consideration.  Their appeal becomes part of the MEB

  

 
 
 
 

Army Physical Disability Evaluation System 

UNCLASSIFIED 

LTC Dorough, DSN 471-8763 /marsha.dorough@us.army.mil 

24  

MEB Appeals 

• The DCCS will review the Soldier’s appeal and make one of the following recommendations:

 

    --  MEB stands as written 

    --  Can send back to health care provider for further information 

    --  Can forward to PEB with attachments or additional notes  

 
 
 
 

Army Physical Disability Evaluation System 

UNCLASSIFIED 

LTC Dorough, DSN 471-8763 /marsha.dorough@us.army.mil 

25  

Is there any way the Soldier can stay in? 

• YES, the Soldier can submit a request for Continuation on Active Duty (COAD) or Continuation on Active Reserve Status (COAR)
  • https://www.hrc.army.mil/site/protect/active/epord/coad.htm

 

• The MEB counselor will provide the Soldier with specific criteria/details related to requesting this

 

• The Soldier can also obtain information and counseling on COAD/COAR from the OSC

 

• Generally, HRC is the approval

   authority for most requests

     -- G-1 is the disapproval authority

         for AW2 requests. 
 

 
 
 
 

Army Physical Disability Evaluation System 

UNCLASSIFIED 

LTC Dorough, DSN 471-8763 /marsha.dorough@us.army.mil 

26  

Delays/ Hold Ups 
 

• Physician leaves (TDY, deploy, etc)
• Command is unaware of process
• Soldier does not inform Command of condition
• Cannot initiate MEB without permanent profile (P3/P4)
• LOD investigations are not completed
• Soldier misses appointment due to own negligence or lack of Command support
• Soldier wants second opinion
• Soldier appeals (legal right)
• Additional medical conditions are discovered after referral to MEB

 
 
 
 

Army Physical Disability Evaluation System 

UNCLASSIFIED 

LTC Dorough, DSN 471-8763 /marsha.dorough@us.army.mil 

27

 
 
 
 

Army Physical Disability Evaluation System 

UNCLASSIFIED 

LTC Dorough, DSN 471-8763 /marsha.dorough@us.army.mil 

28  

Physical Evaluation Board (PEB) 

There are 3 PEBs - Located at the following locations

• Washington, DC PEB
• FT Sam Houston, TX PEB
• FT Lewis, WA PEB

 
 

MEMBERS: 

•    President or Presiding Officer (generally a colonel)
•    Personnel Management Officer (field grade or Civilian Adjudication Officer)
•    Physician (MC Officer or Civilian, generally with Army MC experience)
•    If service member is Reserve Component (RC), a member will be RC
•    Request for Enlisted, female, minority may be made

      --  Request in writing through MEB Counselor

      --  Board expands to 5 members for enlisted representation

      --  May be 3 or 5 members for female or minority representation

 
 
 
 

Army Physical Disability Evaluation System 

UNCLASSIFIED 

LTC Dorough, DSN 471-8763 /marsha.dorough@us.army.mil 

29  

PEB Process 

• The PEB is the only board in the Military that can determine whether a Soldier is fit or unfit for continued Military Service.

 

• If found unfit, the PEB will determine whether the unfitting disability is compensable

 

• If compensable, the PEB will determine the disability rating based on the severity of the medical condition

 

• Not every medical condition is given a rating.

 

• Only those medical conditions that render the Soldier unfit for further Military Service will be rated.

 
 
 
 

Army Physical Disability Evaluation System 

UNCLASSIFIED 

LTC Dorough, DSN 471-8763 /marsha.dorough@us.army.mil 

30  

PEB Process 

• Once the PEB has rendered a decision, the MEB  counselor will be notified

 

• The PEBLO will schedule a review and counseling session with the Soldier on the PEB findings and recommendations, usually within 24 hours

 

• The Soldier is given ten (10) calendar days to concur or nonconcur

 

• The Soldier can also consult with an attorney from the OSC to determine whether they want to request a formal hearing.

 
 
 
 

Army Physical Disability Evaluation System 

UNCLASSIFIED 

LTC Dorough, DSN 471-8763 /marsha.dorough@us.army.mil 

31  

Types Of PEB Dispositions 

• Fit for Duty

 

• Unfit for Duty
  • SWOB (no % given)
  • SWSP
    • Rating of 0%-20% and less than 20 YOS
  • TDRL
    • Rating of 30% or more or 20 YOS and medical condition is NOT stabilized enough for permanent rating
    • Periodic re-exams every 12 - 18 months (5 yr maximum)
    • Minimum of 50% pay for TDRL retirement check
  • PDR
    • Rating of 30% or more or 20 YOS

 

• Disability Compensation: The PEBLO calculates the estimated disability severance pay or YOS (years of service) method or percentage of disability rating for retired pay, as applicable in each case

 
 
 
 

Army Physical Disability Evaluation System 

UNCLASSIFIED 

LTC Dorough, DSN 471-8763 /marsha.dorough@us.army.mil 

32  

PEB Appeal Process For Fit For Duty 

• The Soldier is entitled to submit a written appeal

 

• The Soldier may request a formal hearing, as an exception to policy (usually done by VTC unless Soldier is assigned to one of the installations with a PEB located on it)

 

• The PEB President decides whether to grant a request for formal hearing to contest a fit finding

 
 
 
 

Army Physical Disability Evaluation System 

UNCLASSIFIED 

LTC Dorough, DSN 471-8763 /marsha.dorough@us.army.mil 

33  

PEB Appeal Process 

• If the disposition is  “UNFIT FOR FURTHER MILITARY SERVICE”, the Soldier has the right to request a formal hearing with or without personal appearance. 

 

• The Soldier can also submit a written appeal as to what they disagree with.

 

• The Soldier has the right to be represented by an attorney from JAG or by a counsel of choice (civilian - at the Soldier’s own expense) for their formal hearing.

 

• They may also elect to have representation from any of the various veterans organizations, if available.  (DAV- Disabled American Veteran) These services are free.

 
 
 
 

Army Physical Disability Evaluation System 

UNCLASSIFIED 

LTC Dorough, DSN 471-8763 /marsha.dorough@us.army.mil 

34  

US Army Physical Disability Agency  
(USAPDA) 

• Component of HRC

 

• Reviews and approves/disapproves findings and recommendations of the PEB

 

• The USAPDA may:
  • Return case to PEB for reconsideration, clarification, further investigation, formal hearing or other action
  • Issue modified finding which could change Soldier’s disability rating and/or disposition
    • Soldier has appeal rights (counsel + 10 days to sign)

 

• If USAPDA modifies PEB findings and the Soldier nonconcurs, the case will be forwarded to USAPDAB for final decision.

 
 
 
 

Army Physical Disability Evaluation System 

UNCLASSIFIED 

LTC Dorough, DSN 471-8763 /marsha.dorough@us.army.mil 

35  

Final Disposition 
US Army Physical Disability Agency 

• Physical Disability Board receives case from USAPDA and acts on final decision by USAPDA

 

• UNFIT:
  • Transmits message to the local Transition Center for disability separation/retirement orders
  • Assigns final separation/retirement date: “Not Later Than 90 days” for AD and RC
  • Transition Center will publish appropriate orders

 

• FIT FOR DUTY:
  • Issues a fit memorandum to the MTF
  • The fit memorandum completes the disability evaluation processing

 
 
 
 

Army Physical Disability Evaluation System 

UNCLASSIFIED 

LTC Dorough, DSN 471-8763 /marsha.dorough@us.army.mil 

36  

US Army Versus VA Disposition 

• Army rates only conditions determined to be physically unfitting, compensating for the loss of a military career
• VA may rate any service-connected impairment, thus compensating for loss of civilian employability
• Army ratings are permanent upon final disposition
• VA rating may fluctuate with time, depending upon the progress of the condition
• Army disability compensation is affected by years of service and basic pay
• VA compensation is a flat amount based upon the percentage of rating received.

 

NOTE:  Several MTFs (Army, Navy, and Air Force) have begun testing a single physical exam process with the VA.  Will expand throughout the MHS over the next 12+ months.

 
 
 
 

Army Physical Disability Evaluation System 

UNCLASSIFIED 

LTC Dorough, DSN 471-8763 /marsha.dorough@us.army.mil 

37  

Medical Evaluation Board Internal Tracking Tool (MEBITT) 

  

• System fielded to Military Treatment Facilities (Tracks the individual Soldier from initiation of the Medical Board thru final disposition)
• Provides MTF access to real time and historical data
• Provides MTFs the ability to conduct data analysis, provide updates on soldiers MEB status, and identifies when cases have exceeded processing standards
• System managed and operated by the MEDCOM and data input by PEBLO

 

Note: Your PEBLO can access MEBITT at any time and provide you with information regarding your Soldier’s board upon request.  MEBITT is also the system that updates My MEB on AKO.

 
 
 
 

Army Physical Disability Evaluation System 

UNCLASSIFIED 

LTC Dorough, DSN 471-8763 /marsha.dorough@us.army.mil 

38  

How does the Soldier know what is going on with his/her case? 

My MEB/PEB Portal https://www.us.army.mil/suite/page/417118

 
 
 
 

Army Physical Disability Evaluation System 

UNCLASSIFIED 

LTC Dorough, DSN 471-8763 /marsha.dorough@us.army.mil 

39  

Where does the Soldier get information about the MEB/PEB Process? 

In addition to the briefing the Soldier receives from the MEB office, the Soldier will receive the APDES booklet.  Soldiers should always communicate directly with their assigned PEBLO if they have any remaining questions/concerns.

 
 
 
 

Army Physical Disability Evaluation System 

UNCLASSIFIED 

LTC Dorough, DSN 471-8763 /marsha.dorough@us.army.mil 

40  

What about confidentiality? 

• A Soldier’s medical board is personal and private

 

• Limited information can be provided to their unit:
  • THE FACT THAT A SOLDIER IS UNDERGOING

     DISABILITY PROCESSING 

• WHERE THE SOLDIER IS IN THE BOARD PROCESS

 

• WHETHER THE SOLDIER WAS FOUND FIT OR UNFIT

 
 

• Family members do not have automatic access to the Soldier’s medical records/board status without their written permission

 

• KEEP EVERYONE CONCERNED INFORMED.

 
 
 
 

Army Physical Disability Evaluation System 

UNCLASSIFIED 

LTC Dorough, DSN 471-8763 /marsha.dorough@us.army.mil 

41  

How Can the Soldier Make This as Painless as Possible? 

• The Soldier must NOT miss any of their appointments – They need to be on time, with their ID card, in the appropriate Uniform, with documentation on hand

 

• NO SHOWS FOR ANY MEDICAL APPOINTMENT WILL BE REPORTED TO THEIR COMMANDER – This causes delays in the MEB Process

 

• The Soldier must always provide accurate phone numbers to their PEBLO

 

• The Soldier must contact  their PEBLO before leaving town

 
 
 
 

Army Physical Disability Evaluation System 

UNCLASSIFIED 

LTC Dorough, DSN 471-8763 /marsha.dorough@us.army.mil 

42  

Still Need Help? 

• Each Soldier has a PEBLO assigned to them who can answer any question related to the MEB/PEB.   You should get to know the PEBLO assigned to your company/squad by name and know his/her phone number, e-mail, and office location. 
• Talk to your MTF’s PEBLO supervisor to set up briefings for your unit if you need further education.
• Additional guidance on the APDES can be found at https://pad.amedd.army.mil/meb.html (requires AKO log in).

 
 
 
 

Army Physical Disability Evaluation System 

UNCLASSIFIED 

LTC Dorough, DSN 471-8763 /marsha.dorough@us.army.mil 

43  

QUESTIONS ???????

 
 
 
 

Army Physical Disability Evaluation System 

UNCLASSIFIED 

LTC Dorough, DSN 471-8763 /marsha.dorough@us.army.mil 

44  

BACK UP SLIDES 

Date-Time-Group

 
 
 
 

Army Physical Disability Evaluation System 

UNCLASSIFIED 

LTC Dorough, DSN 471-8763 /marsha.dorough@us.army.mil 

45  

Basic Terminology 

• APDES – Physical Disability Evaluation System
• APDAB - Army Physical Disability Appeal Board
• ERB – Enlisted Review Brief
• EPTS – Existed Prior to Service
• FFD – Fit For Duty
• MEB - Medical Evaluation Board
• MMRB - MOS/Medical Retention Board
• ORB – Officer Review Brief
• PDR – Permanent Disability Retirement
• PEBLO – Physical Evaluation Board Liaison Officer
• PEB - Physical Evaluation Board
• PPES – Physical Performance Evaluation System Agency
• SWSP – Separation with Severance Pay
• SWOB – Separation without Benefits
• TDRL – Temporary Disability Retired List
• USAPDA – U.S. Army Physical Disability

 
 
 
 

Army Physical Disability Evaluation System 

UNCLASSIFIED 

LTC Dorough, DSN 471-8763 /marsha.dorough@us.army.mil 

46  

Regulatory Guidance  
 

• DOD Directive1332.18, Separation or Retirement for Physical Disability

 

• DOD Instruction 1332.38, Physical Disability Evaluation

 

• DOD Instruction 1332.39, Application of the Veterans Administration Schedule for Rating Disabilities

 

• AR 600-60, Physical Performance Evaluation System

 

• AR 40-400, Patient Administration

 

• AR 40-501, Standards of Medical Fitness, CHAPTERS 3 & 7

 

• AR 635-40, Physical Evaluation for Retention, Retirement, or Separation

              

• Veteran’s Administration Schedule for Rating Disabilities (VASRD)

 
 
 
 

Army Physical Disability Evaluation System 

UNCLASSIFIED 

LTC Dorough, DSN 471-8763 /marsha.dorough@us.army.mil 

47  

MMRB 

MEB 

PEB 

FFD

PDR

TDRL

SWSP

SWOB

APDES

USAPDA 

RETURN TO DUTY

RECLASSIFICATION

PROBATION (1-6 MO) 
 
 

RETURN TO DUTY 
 
 

APDAB 

MTF

PPES

Physical Performance/Physical Disability

 
 
 
 

Army Physical Disability Evaluation System 

UNCLASSIFIED 

LTC Dorough, DSN 471-8763 /marsha.dorough@us.army.mil 

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Recommendation(s) 

Problem / Issue 

Discussion 

Additional Information 

INFO 

CLICK HERE TO INSERT INFORMATION BRIEFING TOPIC

 
 
 
 

Army Physical Disability Evaluation System 

UNCLASSIFIED 

LTC Dorough, DSN 471-8763 /marsha.dorough@us.army.mil 

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Recommendation(s) 

Problem / Issue 

Discussion 

Additional Information 

DISAPPROVED 

COMMENTS 

APPROVED: 

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CLICK HERE TO INSERT DECISION BRIEFING TOPIC

 

PVT J now has his profile,and the next step is...

 

What is your next step??

 

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If your MEB was MMRB-directed, your case generally goes to the PEB.

Required even if you meet retention standards with a P3.

If duty limitations are lessoned, MTF may refer you back to MMRBCA for reconsideration.

If P3 is upgraded to P2 and you meet retention standards, you are RTD. 

 

Keeps our Soldiers in the fight

  Our Army retains invaluable expertise and experience now and in the future

 

To be considered:

             Submit request to the Physical Evaluation Board

             Physically capable of performing duty for which he/she is currently

             qualified or potentially trainable 

To be eligible:

            COAD - Soldier has 15 years but less than 20 years of active federal service, OR COAR – have a total of 15, but less than 20 years of qualifying service for non-regular retirement

            Is qualified in a critical skill or shortage MOS, OR

            Disability is a result of combat or act of terrorism 

***Wounded Warriors in the AW2 program must complete 5 Yr Career Plan 

Other considerations/information can be found in AR 635-40, Chapter 6

 

 

Physician PCS; incomplete documentation.

Cases returned from PEB for further documentation, soldier signatures, missing paperwork

Soldier misses appointments due to own negligence, or is deployed. 

 

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Types of PEB Dispositions

Fit for Duty

Separate without benefits (no percentage rating given)

EPTS with less than 8 years of AD days if member is on AD.

Due to misconduct, willful negligence, etc.

Separate with severance pay

Rating of 0%- 20% and less than 20 years of service (YOS).

20 years of service = AD + RC equivalent service.

RC equivalent service = membership + inactive duty points divided [use divide sign] by 360.

Severance pay = 2 months basic pay x YOS capped at 12.

Service of six months rounded up; less than, rounded down.

Temporary Disability Retirement List (TDRL)

20 YOS as described above or minimum 30% rating.

Condition not permanent and stable.

Maximum tenure is 5 years.  May be removed sooner.

Periodic re-exams every 12 – 18 months.

Without the requisite 20 years, removal occurs if severity drops below 30 percent.

TDRL pay is minimum 50% of either high 36 month average of basic pay (entered military after 7 Sep 80) or final basic pay (entered military before 8 Sep 80).

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Permanent Disability Retirement

20 YOS as described above or minimum 30% rating

Permanent and stable or severity not expected to improve to less than 80%. 

Grade for Disability Retirement and Payment of Disability Severance Pay

Highest of –

current grade;

highest grade satisfactorily held;

pending promotion grade.

In promotable status throughout disability evaluation.

“Automatic promotion” grades included in “pending promotion.”

Pending promotion: no impact on retired pay for post 7 Sep 80 Soldiers.

Pending promotion:  increases disability severance pay.

Post separation promotion eligibility date:

Enlisted promoted last day.Last day promotion for enlisted.

Officers retired at pending grade or receive severance at pending grade, but no actual promotion. 

 

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