When an MEB cannot determine return to duty, what is the next step?

When an MEB cannot determine return to duty, what is the next step?

• A. Referral to the PEB for formal disability evaluation.
• B. Immediate discharge without further review.
• C. Reassignment to administrative duties.
• D. Termination of medical records.

Answer: (A)

When the MEB cannot determine return to duty, the case moves to the Physical Evaluation Board for a formal disability evaluation. The PEB provides the official, standardized assessment of fitness for continued military service and assigns a disability rating if the member is found unfit. This step ensures a thorough review and proper disposition, such as medical retirement or separation with benefits, rather than an abrupt discharge or other administrative actions. Immediate discharge without review bypasses due process, reassignment to administrative duties doesn’t resolve the disability determination, and termination of medical records isn’t relevant to the service's disability decision.

When the MEB cannot determine return to duty, the case moves to the Physical Evaluation Board for a formal disability evaluation. The PEB provides the official, standardized assessment of fitness for continued military service and assigns a disability rating if the member is found unfit. This step ensures a thorough review and proper disposition, such as medical retirement or separation with benefits, rather than an abrupt discharge or other administrative actions. Immediate discharge without review bypasses due process, reassignment to administrative duties doesn’t resolve the disability determination, and termination of medical records isn’t relevant to the service's disability decision.