What is the Coast Guards Physical Disability Evaluation System?
The Coast Guards Physical Disability Evaluation System (PDES) follows the provisions of certain United States laws (specifically, Title 10, United States Code, Chapter 61) governing the separation or retirement of military personnel due to physical disability. PDES laws were enacted primarily to ensure a vital, fit military force. These laws also provide you certain benefits and protections if your military career ends prematurely due to injury or illness. Should you suffer injury or develop a medical condition, the PDES program will evaluate your ability to perform the duties associated with your office, grade, rank or rating. In accordance with federal law, the Coast Guard may find you fit for duty, separate you, or retire you due to a physical disability. Back to the top What are the major stages of the PDES process? • Receipt of your medical evaluation board (MEB) from your clinic. • Your MEB is then delivered to the Informal Physical Evaluation Board (IPEB) for adjudication. It no
