On TDRL: First PEB re-eval, need advice please, Total Disc Replacement L5-S1

H

Harold

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Unfortunately in 2006 I was inured in Iraq. Two back surgeries later, I have an artificial disc implant for L5-S1 in 2007 after the disc was unable to be saved. In 2008, I was placed on TDRL with 40% disability. This is my first PEB re-evaluation, and I am worried about losing Tricare Benefits for my family. I am currently attending college through the Vocational Rehabilitation program.

My condition has not "improved" (which I understand can be interpreted quite differently by a PEB board...) I am still unable to run, lift, bend, stoop, climb long flights of stairs...etc. I still see a neurosurgeon who says that I will never be able to do those things for the rest of my life. The VA has awarded a rating of 80%, due to my sleep apnea and back condition.

Ultimately, my concern is how likely am I to keep my Tricare Benefits and stay on TDRL or be placed on PDRL, rather than separated? Would it be better to waive a PEB board exam at a military facility in lieu of an exam by my Primary Care Physician (this was a choice in my orders...)? If not, what type of documentation etc. would anyone suggest that I bring to my PEB board exam?

Thank you for your advice and support.
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Maybe some of the experts can pipe in here, but unless there is some uneritten rule somwhere i'd look at getting an exam by your PCM. Are you comfortable with your PCM? Has your PCM been seeing you for your back issues for awhile...many visits? I would think your PCM would look at the whole person concept---how it effects YOU--day in and day out. If you go to an MTF you might be having a splendid day, where you feel great--that might be reflected in your exam....more of a "one shot deal". Very risky.

Just my .02 cents.

Nate
 
Harold, was your 40% because of ROM?

I want you to know that understand what you are saying. Its as if you and I live the same life. I am due for re-eval as well. As soon as I went on TDRL I established a relationship with a doctor on Peterson AFB specifically for documentation purposes. I have been looking through the forum to see which way most people have gone-to the board, PCM, military base PCM....but I don't see too much info on it. My active duty doc and I will be writing my NARSUM and preparing the documentation for my review.

So anyway-I see you posted this a few times and it must be weighing heavily on your mind. I believe your ROM will be a huge factor for you. Unfortunately the board doesn't care how much hardware you have-just whether or not you are functional. Backs are rated heavily on ROM and additional ratings can come from radiculopathies.

Do you have a date for your re-eval yet?
 
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