Streamlined disability evaluation system introduced at Elmendorf

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ELMENODRF AIR FORCE BASE, Alaska --  Complicated, time consuming, and confusing are words used to describe the process for wounded servicemembers as they transition through the Disability Evaluation System. In the new DES Pilot program, the more common terms will be streamlined, efficient, and responsive.

This new joint Department of Defense-Veterans Affairs effort is designed to improve treatment, evaluation, and delivery of compensation and benefits. The goal is to ensure a seamless transition for the wounded, ill, or injured from the DOD to the VA system.

Those entering into the DES at this base will now be enrolled in the Pilot evaluation process. 

"We are excited to host this new disability evaluation system at our base. This new process provides us the opportunity to improve the quality and timeliness of service to our military members and their families" said Col. Paul Friedrichs, 3rd Medical Group commander. 

Specifically, the DES Pilot provides individualized, integrated, interagency, and intergovernmental support for servicemembers and Veterans throughout the process of treatment, recovery, rehabilitation, evaluation, transition, and reintegration.

Before the pilot program, there was widespread concern that the existing evaluation process was cumbersome, time consuming, and confusing. "The pilot evaluation system is intended to shorten and simplify the process in order to improve overall care. The program will also enhance benefits to Service members and Veterans by creating a seamless transition to support their reintegration into the military or civilian community." said Sam Retherford, Department of Defense's Officer and Enlisted Personnel Management director.

The introduction of a single comprehensive medical examination and single-sourced disability rating has been instrumental towards improving the process. It increased transparency; allowing Service members to see their proposed VA disability rating prior to separation. "Knowing their potential disability rating makes them aware of many factors which will be key in planning their future, such as pay level and educational benefits," said Retherford.

The pilot was introduced in greater Washington, D.C. in November 2007. Input from those working with Service members has been key to the system's improvement. DOD and VA staff members believe making this process easier provides members with better options as they transition back to military service or into civilian status. Ultimately, reduction of the stress and confusion is a huge help to families which takes a burden off the servicemember by allowing them to focus more on their recovery.

Treatment facilities across the country are or soon will be involved in this pilot program. By summer 2009, 22 locations are projected to be participating. "Many facilities pose unique challenges to those moving through the DES process," said Retherford. "As a result, we wanted to ensure we had cast a wide enough net to capture a variety of situations prior to officially putting the new process in place across the board."

The new system was implemented April 30 at Elmendorf.