He is in the Army (from his earlier mention of an MMRB), so SECNAVINST 1850.4E does not apply. However, in the Army (and all Services) technically, there is no mechanism to formally request an
MEB. Generally, it is a command (direct or MTF or Service Headquarters) decision.
However, you can always talk with your doctor (who is the link to the MTF commander's decision) about your limitations, etc. The only thing I point out is that I have seen cases where member's request for a
MEB (or separation or retirement) have been documented by the health care provider in a treatment note and this can be viewed as a "quest for benefits" (which does not help your case). In some cases, the provider will initiate a conversation about the
MEB. In those cases, it is not as risky to discuss the subject. I still think it is better to keep discussions focused on functional limitations on duty performance and stay away from discussions about outcomes or benefits.