IRILO Initiated for "Back Pain" only

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NHow20

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PEB Forum Veteran
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What are the odds of having a unfit for duty statement for a MEB that simply lists "back pain" as the diagnosis? I'm assuming "back pain" is referring to the 2 bulging disks, L1 Nerve impingement, DDD, and possible Spondyloarthropathy suggested by neurologist(Waiting on Rheumatology apt for months to confirm this).. Or will that be specified to just one of those.

Also on another note I've been waiting for my PCM to write my NARSUM for 8 MONTHS (I have been reaching out consistently to track progress). Anyone else deal with some crazy timelines like this because I feel this is getting a little strung out. Worst part is my EAS without a MEB would be September.
 
@NHow20

"Back pain" is a common generic, catch-all diagnosis when initiating the IDES process. Typically, the diagnosis will be refined as your case develops; that doesn't mean you should forget about the issue. There are mechanisms you can use to address this. Be sure to speak with your government assigned counsel about it. The key is to ensure that the "catch-all" isn't being used to wrongfully group multiple separately unfitting conditions together. For instance: grouping both DDD and radiculopathy together when they should be separately unfitting conditions that should be rated separately – that could mean the difference between a 20% DoD rating and a 30% or 40% DoD rating, separation vs retirement.

S/f,

Joel

Disclosure: I was a Marine JAG, Active Duty and Reserve IPEB & FPEB attorney, federal government civilian FPEB & TDRL-focused attorney at the Navy PEB, and now a private attorney focused solely on IDES cases. This post is meant as procedural insight only and should not be construed as legal advice related to a specific case or a legal analysis of facts thereof.
 
The referred reason being back pain is standard: the VA will likely diagnose you with DDD or corroborate any diagnoses already made on you.

As far as your PCM goes if it's within your chain of command should probably route it up to your CO or OIC to get things handled. 8 months is unforgivable.
 
thanks4urhelp said:
The referred reason being back pain is standard: the VA will likely diagnose you with DDD or corroborate any diagnoses already made on you.

As far as your PCM goes if it's within your chain of command should probably route it up to your CO or OIC to get things handled. 8 months is unforgivable.
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Yea its been a huge issue, I have had my shirt contact the PCM multiple times, as well as my MH providers, and WWC manager.

As of yesterday, I'm second on the list of NARSUM's my PCM has so hopefully in the next few weeks I will finally see progress.
 
Have you filed your VA claim yet? If not be sure you file for pain, joint, and nerve. All three can be rated.
 
chaplaincharlie said:
Have you filed your VA claim yet? If not be sure you file for pain, joint, and nerve. All three can be rated.
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It was recommended by my PEBLO to wait and let AFPC come back with a fit or unfit determination first. Will filing before a unfit determination cause issues further in the process?
 
I recommend filing for EVERY condition. I don’t understand your PEBLO ‘s logic.
 
June 13th, 2024 - PCM Submitted NARSUM. Now waiting for CIS!
8 Months later and its finally done.
 
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