The Military has a system for most things dealing with managing personnel and forces, and the issue of Demobilization is no different. Most people that are preparing for Demobilization do so with a lot of happiness and joy, others have mixed emotions. But no matter what your feelings are about it, as the date draws closer you will have a lot of different steps to go through.
One of the benefits of being in the military is the option you have with demobilization. When you get to the area for your demobilization, you will get a large packet of different information. This packet will have a great deal of different forms. Each of these forms has to be filled out for you to successfully complete your demobilization.
The two most important forms you have to fill out during your demobilization are the DD 2697 form, which is the Medical Assessment Report, and DD form 2696, or the Deployment Post Assessment Form. These two forms are the minimum; you will receive a host of other forms that will give you additional benefits and opportunities upon demobilization. Included in your packet will be forms for the VA, Forms for Medical Benefit and Entitlements, and various forms for TriCare contact and benefit forms. Each of these should be filled out before you depart the demobilization area; there are a number of them that give you specific rights and privileges if they are filled out correctly.
During your demobilization a doctor, or at least a health care professional will see you. You will be given an overall health assessment, and if need be a deeper physical exam. They will assist you in completing your TriCare and VA forms if you need help. The main reason for the assessment is to make sure any injuries or changes to your overall health are noted and recorded. This can be a full medical exam, or it can be a mere assessment, depending.
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You are able to refuse to be seen or assessed, or refuse a REFRAD physical at your demobilization. But if you do then you may have no medical claim later if you experience long term service related injuries or long lasting service related medical effects. So it’s a good idea to allow yourself to get checked out during your demobilization.
For most people, knowing, or knowledge is power. If you have any questions about your benefits or medical coverage after demobilization, its best to visit your command ahead of time, or check out each of their web sites, the Veterans Administration, and Tricare, on the Internet.