Shouldn’t I have my medical conditions evaluated by the PEB to support a disability claim I plan to submit to the Department of Veterans Affairs (DVA)?
No. The DoD and DVA disability evaluation systems are independent of one another. As stated earlier, only those conditions that render the Soldier unfit for continued military duty will be rated by the PEB. However, the DVA could potentially rate and award disability compensation for any medical condition that affects a former Soldier’s quality of life whether or not that condition would impair their earning capacity. Although the Soldier’s medical record is used by the DVA to determine service connection, the former Soldier is given a complete medical examination by the DVA before a rating determination is made by a DVA rating specialist. Additional information on DVA benefits can be found at www.va.gov. In addition, DVA Benefits Counselors are available at most Army transition centers.
Related Questions
- I know radial keratotomy is not covered under the company medical plan, but can I submit a claim for reimbursement from my HCSA account to help pay for the procedure? What about cosmetic surgery?
- Why do I need to submit a medical form? What if I have allergies or other conditions requiring medication or field based treatment?
- What is a medical disability?
