If you were separated for service-related medical conditions that were not properly recognized, upgrading your military discharge can change your life.
In 2023, the Air Force launched a review of discharges for former airmen separated under other-than-honorable conditions due to mental health issues such as post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) and traumatic brain injury (TBI). Some of the discharged have experienced sexual assault or harassment. The review was intended to look into the possibility that some of the discharges were unfair and discriminatory.
A discharge upgrade to medical retirement can give many veterans important benefits, like health care, disability payments, and recognition of their honorable service. A formal process exists to correct an administrative, general, or other-than-honorable discharge to a medical separation.
This article will provide an overview of how you can convert your military discharge to medical retirement to secure additional benefits.
Understanding Medical Retirement Eligibility
If you want to apply for an upgrade from military discharge to medical retirement, you should first understand the eligibility requirements.
A service-connected medical condition that affects military duties is usually required. You would be required to present proof that your medical condition began or worsened during active duty.
The US Department of Veteran Affairs requires a 30% disability rating or higher. If you have been charged with misconduct, your eligibility might be affected.
You need to act quickly if you’re looking to upgrade your discharge status, as there are time limits associated with the process.
Gathering Necessary Documentation
To upgrade your military discharge to medical retirement, you must provide supporting documentation to substantiate your claims.
- Start with your medical records. Present records of your military hospital and clinic diagnoses, treatments, and reviews for a lifelong condition.
- You must also show duty records of service time, awards, and the relevant discharge paperwork.
- Collecting written statements from coworkers and superiors can help prove your disorders and enhance your credibility.
- Your individual statements will explain how your health issues have affected your daily life and military performance.
When you are ready to upgrade your discharge, organizing and categorizing these documents will streamline the submission process.
Initiating the Discharge Upgrade Process
Before applying for a discharge upgrade, you must follow certain steps.
The Discharge and Review Board (DRB) and the Board for Correction of Military Records (BCMR) are the two groups involved in reviewing your discharge upgrade. The DRB primarily reviews administrative discharges, while the BCMR has a broader authority and can review both administrative and medical discharges.
Applicants must prepare their cases by completing their case documents. Write down which upgrade you want, why, and how your condition justifies medical retirement in your application.
You may need to wait for your application to be reviewed.
Maintain awareness of issues concerning your application and promptly address board inquiries.
Navigating the Medical Evaluation Board
Getting through the Medical Evaluation Board (MEB) could determine your medical retirement.
Organize and gather medical records, including your diagnosis and treatment reports.
Your mental and physical health will be thoroughly assessed by a team.
Be honest about your symptoms and how they affect your life. Any incorrect information brought about by your dishonesty can affect your application and cause unnecessary delays.
Contact MEB staff directly if you have any questions or need clarification.
After your evaluation, the MEB will issue a report with findings.
Document the MEB’s recommendations carefully, as they will have a significant impact on your retirement.
Seeking Assistance and Resources
Seeking assistance and resources will help you obtain a medical retirement.
For advice and support, notify your chain of command.
Contact Disabled American Veterans (DAV) or Veterans of Foreign Wars (VFW) for help with paperwork.
Hiring an attorney specializing in military benefits may help you understand your rights and guide you through the complex process of military discharge upgrades.
Online forums and support groups allow veterans who have been through similar experiences to share their knowledge and recovery.
Maintain current knowledge of available options and procedures to make your application for medical retirement as stress-free as possible.
Photo Credit: DepositPhotos.com
