FORT EUSTIS, Va. –
The Disability Evaluation System now makes it easier for injured or ill Soldiers to file claims with the Department of Veterans Affairs and determine their fitness to continue military service.
Formerly known as the Medical Evaluation Board process, the DES combines Department of Defense and VA disability claim processes under one system.
In the past, injured Soldiers were required to complete the MEB process before filing their claim with the VA. Under the new process, Soldiers file claims with the VA while they are being evaluated by the U.S. Army to determine their fitness to continue serving.
Furthermore, through the addition of the Soldier's Medical Evaluation Board Counsel, Soldiers now have access to an attorney to assist them in understanding the medical board process. In the past, personnel only had access to legal counsel if and when they elected a formal appearance before the Physical Evaluation Board, which determines fitness.
"Many Soldiers went through the MEB process not completely understanding their basic rights," said Patrice Jones, a paralegal specialist with Fort Eustis' MEBC. "The MEB process is one that Soldiers don't always get a clear understanding of it until they've gone through it. By then, it really is too late."
At Fort Eustis, attorney Nicholas Maurer assists Soldiers in deciphering the Narrative Summary and the ratings they receive from the Army and the VA. Prior to arriving at Fort Eustis, Maurer served as an Army Reserve Judge Advocate representing Soldiers in PEB cases.
"Often times Soldiers are not clear as to why they received certain ratings and decisions," Jones explained. "Mr. Maurer offers guidance as to how to gather appropriate medical evidence that may not ordinarily be considered in their case."
The Fort Eustis MEBC office also serves Soldiers stationed at Fort Lee, Joint Expeditionary Base Little Creek-Fort Story, all other detached Army units in the Hampton Roads area and the Army Reservists and National Guardsmen assigned to Virginia's Community-Based Warrior Transition Unit.
The MEBC is co-located with the Physical Evaluation Board Liaison Officers at 579 Jefferson Avenue on post. For more information, call (757) 314-7740 or (757) 314-7729.