Medical Boards

DES

The Disability Evaluation System (DES) process is involuntary, but Service members have rights and options as they navigate the process. From the point of referral through final disposition, Service members have the ability to review all information leveraged for the fitness determination. At the Medical Evaluation Board (MEB) phase members have the right to consult with attorneys, request independent medical review, and to refute evidence or comments made regarding their condition. During the Physical Evaluation Board (PEB) phase Service members are allocated specific points in the process to review PEB decisions and elect for additional due process. 
The DES is the mechanism for determining return to duty, separation, or retirement of Service members because of disability in accordance with Title 10, United States Code. There are two different processes within DES: the Integrated Disability Evaluation System (IDES) and the Legacy Disability Evaluation System (LDES). The DES process is applicable to all active-duty members as defined in Title X, DODI 1332.18, and SECNAVINST 1850.4_

IDES

The key element of IDES is the integration of military service department and the Department of Veterans Affairs. This integration enables quick and seamless transition for Service members found Unfit to VA benefits upon separation. The activation of VA benefits upon separation is enabled through IDES due to the ability for the Service member to file a claim with the VA for service-connected injuries above and beyond the initial referred conditions that drove the referral into the DES process. Because the IDES process has additional steps with the Department of Veterans Affairs, it is a lengthier process than Legacy DES.
 

IDES Fact Sheet

LDES

The LDES process is the same as IDES except for the VA claim process, associated Compensation and Pension exams, and VA disability ratings step. In the LDES the MEB and PEB is executed the same but without additional VA involvement. In this process the PEB provides the disability ratings for the unfitting conditions. If Service members wish to file a claim with the VA, it is done outside of the LDES process.

LDES 1850-2​

Separation Health Assessment Guidance
Separation Health Assessment

DD Form 2870 (Authorization for disclosure of Medical or Dental information)

Frequently Asked Questions