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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If your already at 80% for the VA, you can apply for IU, IU (unemployability ) isn't impossible to get, when you apply, also apply for permanent and total, they just approved my husband within two months. Once you get P/T you can get Champva and educational benefits for you family. As far as the military goes, I think there is a transitional health insurance, you can also try your state services. Illinois has one for Vets. Good luck
 
Mascbn,

Would you please explain the IU a little more? Is it just because of the 80% or are there other factors? I haven't heard of this before. Thanks!
 
hey momma, IU is individual unemployability. It exists for those whose service connected disabilities render them unable to retain suitable employment. There is a definition of suitable for this. It does not include menial work, sheltered work enviornments, etc. I think you have to be 80% or greater service connected. This rating bridges the gap between the 80% and 100% and the designation effectively puts you at 100%. Unfortunately, you won't get the same benefits of someone deemed 100% permanent and total, like educational benefits for dependents and champva. I do think a spouse can recieve the 10 hiring preference. I recieved my hiring preference due to my husbands rating, and I have never served. You should look at your decision letter carefully, they include the application form usually on the bottom of the pile, and will mention it in your letter. To apply, you'll want all your evidence gathered, days missed at work, work performance statements etc. If your performance isn't effected by your service connected issues, your not likely to get the extra rating, You should also check with your state and local governments for extra benefits when your rated above 50%. Our property tax is reduced due to my husbands rating it's not alot, but where we live every bit counts. Illinois also has special programs for Disabled vets, he doesn't pay for his tags, (he has disabled vet plates) thats about 90.00 per year, they also have an insurance program for dv's who don't have insurance, as well as a few cash grants.
 
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