The medical board process is officially called the PDES, Physical Disability Evaluation System.  A wounded soldier is directed to the PDES if they have a medical condition that fails to meet retention standards IAW AR 40-501, Chapter 3. The determination of failing to meet medical retention standards is made by a physician.

The next step is an informal Physical Evaluation Board (PEB).  As with the MEB, it is not a meeting but an exchange of assessments between an active duty Colonel or Lieutenant Colonel (PEB Chair), a Personnel Management Officer, and a physician to determine whether or not the Wounded Warrior meets retention requirements for his or her MOS.  Under the new scheme being piloted at Walter Reed the VA office located at Walter Reed simultaneously evaluates the case and determines the VA percent disability rating and sends it to the PEB.  The PEBLO briefs the WW on the results.

Department of Veterans Affairs Disability Compensation Benefits

What Is VA Disability Compensation?

Disability compensation is a benefit paid to a veteran because of injuries or diseases that happened while on active duty, or were made worse by active military service.  It is also paid to certain veterans disabled from VA health care.  The benefits are tax-free.

Department of Veterans Affairs Special Monthly Compensation (SMC) for Serious Disabilities

Can a Veteran Receive Additional Payments for Serious Disabilities? 

VA can pay additional compensation to a veteran who, as a result of military service, incurred the loss or loss of use of specific organs or extremities.

Department of Veterans Affairs  “Presumptive” Disability Benefits for Certain Groups of Veterans

Informal military legal counsel is available throughout the MEB and PEB process at the request of the Wounded Warrior.  The counsel may review the results of the informal PEB and assist the soldier in compiling and evaluating information that supports a formal PEB, should the soldier requests one.