Who typically conducts the formal medical evaluation for a TDRL case?

• A. A Disability Evaluation System physician
• B. The unit's first sergeant
• C. The member's civilian physician
• D. The base legal office

Answer: (A)

In a TDRL case, the formal medical evaluation is carried out by a Disability Evaluation System physician. This physician is specifically trained to perform the formal medical evaluation (FME) as part of the DoD/DVA Disability Evaluation System process, reviewing medical records, conducting necessary examinations, and determining whether the service member’s condition has improved, stayed the same, or worsened. The findings from this evaluation help decide whether the member remains on TDRL, is moved to permanent disability, or can return to duty. The unit’s first sergeant handles administrative duties, a civilian treating physician isn’t the designated evaluator for the DES process, and the base legal office deals with legal matters rather than medical evaluations.