How do You get medically retired from the military?

How Do You Get Medically Retired from the Military?

Serving in the military can be a challenging and rewarding experience, but it can also come with physical and mental health risks. For those who are injured or become ill during their service, the option of medical retirement may be available. In this article, we will explore the process of getting medically retired from the military, including the eligibility criteria, the application process, and what to expect during the transition to civilian life.

Eligibility Criteria

To be eligible for medical retirement, service members must meet certain criteria. These criteria include:

• Permanent impairment: The service member must have a permanent impairment that prevents them from performing their duties.
• Medical condition: The service member must have a medical condition that is service-connected, meaning it was caused or exacerbated by their military service.
• Mandatory retirement age: The service member must be nearing the mandatory retirement age for their branch of service (typically 40-60 years old).
• Length of service: The service member must have served for a minimum number of years, which varies by branch of service.

Application Process

The application process for medical retirement typically begins with a Medical Evaluation Board (MEB). An MEB is a panel of medical professionals who evaluate the service member’s medical condition and determine whether they are eligible for medical retirement. The MEB process typically involves:

• Initial evaluation: The service member is evaluated by a primary care physician to determine the nature and extent of their medical condition.
• Specialty evaluations: The service member is evaluated by specialists in relevant medical fields to determine the severity and impact of their condition.
• MEB panel: The MEB panel reviews the service member’s medical records and evaluates their condition to determine whether they are eligible for medical retirement.

Types of Medical Retirement

There are two types of medical retirement:

• Line of Duty (LOD) retirement: This type of retirement is granted when the service member’s medical condition is determined to be service-connected, meaning it was caused or exacerbated by their military service.
• Non-LOD retirement: This type of retirement is granted when the service member’s medical condition is not service-connected, but they are still unable to perform their duties.

Benefits of Medical Retirement

Medical retirement provides a range of benefits, including:

• Disability compensation: A tax-free monthly stipend based on the service member’s disability rating.
• Health insurance: Continued medical coverage through the Department of Veterans Affairs (VA).
• Education benefits: Eligibility for education benefits, such as the GI Bill.
• Home loan guarantees: Eligibility for home loan guarantees, such as the VA Guaranteed Home Loan Program.
• Retirement pay: A monthly pension based on the service member’s length of service and final pay grade.

Transitioning to Civilian Life

The transition to civilian life can be challenging, especially for those who have spent their entire adult life in the military. Some of the challenges service members may face include:

• Adjusting to a new career: Finding a new career that utilizes their skills and experience.
• Finding healthcare: Navigating the civilian healthcare system and finding a primary care physician.
• Maintaining a sense of purpose: Finding ways to stay engaged and motivated in civilian life.

Conclusion

Medical retirement is a complex and nuanced process that requires careful evaluation and consideration. Service members who are considering medical retirement should consult with their chain of command, medical professionals, and a military attorney to ensure they are making an informed decision. By understanding the eligibility criteria, application process, and benefits of medical retirement, service members can make a successful transition to civilian life.

Additional Resources

• Department of Veterans Affairs: www.va.gov
• Military Compensation and Benefits: www.military.com/benefits
• Military OneSource: www.militaryonesource.mil

Table: Medical Retirement Benefits

Bullets: Eligibility Criteria

• Permanent impairment
• Medical condition that is service-connected
• Mandatory retirement age
• Length of service

Bullets: Challenges of Transitioning to Civilian Life

• Adjusting to a new career
• Finding healthcare
• Maintaining a sense of purpose