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    Military Member just given diagnosis of MS

    Hello everyone,

    I dont know where to start really, but i was just given a diagnosis of MS. I am Active duty with little over 18.5 years in. I am in the process of being sent home to the states for treatment and maybe placed in an in-paitent treatment facilty. They have already said there will be an MEB and i dont see the AF retaining me. Has anyone been diagnosed with this while serving on Actice duty, and how did the VA view it come time for a medical discharge and disabilty?

    Thanks everyone!

    #2
    I am assuming you are Air Force...I was too, and diagnosed on AD. Met an MEB and was retained.

    At 18.5 years, you will not be discharged. You will be retired and receive benefits to include Tricare. Since you have more than 18 years and have entered the stage called "sanctuary", it is possible that the AF will allow you to complete a full 20 years.

    In addition to your retirement benefits, you will be getting VA benefits to include disability pay if the VA rates you out at 50% or more. Your MS will be a minimum of 30%. It is not uncommon to get an initial rating and have to go back and keep getting it upgraded if and when your condition gets worse.

    When you get back to the States get yourself a good MS Specialist that accepts Tricare Standard. The majority of retirees are on Standard. Which means you need a Supplement. My Tricare Supplement costs me $67 a month through ASI.

    If you choose medical care through the VA, they will charge Tricare and you will never see a bill.

    Also keep in mind as a 30% disabled vet, you get a 10 point hiring preference for Civil Service.

    Good Luck to you and wishing you the best at the MEB.
    Katie
    "Yep, I have MS, and it does have Me!"
    "My MS is a Journey for One."
    Dx: 1999 DMDS: Avonex, Copaxone, Rebif, currently on Tysabri

    Comment


      #3
      First, thank you for your service to our country. You and your loved ones have certainly sacrificed for my benefit and I only wish you the best now. I've been out over 20 years so not all of my suggestions may apply to today's military.

      The entire thing comes down to you being informed of what the best decisions are and having the documentation to support it. Little things add up to $1000s and $1000s of dollars over your lifetime. People need to talk to you about the Caregiver Act, Individual Unemployability, and hopefully a full and permanent disability level.
      • First, do not let them discharge you until you are comfortable with your future benefits. It's much easier to impact your situation while you are still in uniform. The simple goal is to get rated a high as possible for your long-term benefit.
      • Consider calling your JAG officer and determine what legal rights you have to ensure you are not missing anything. You'd be surprised how checking the wrong box on a form can impact you for the long term.
      • Contact a Veterans Service Officer (VSO) in your immediate area or where you will return post-discharge. They will give you a laundry list of forms, documentation and what not you will need to create the best claim possible. If they are unable to help you see if they can point you in the right direction. Many people find The Disabled American Veterans and Paralyzed Veterans of America, superior to the American Legion and/or VFW when dealing with MS.
      • Ensure you have copies of your military medical record before getting out. Review it and fight to have any errors removed and/or edited. Ensure your secondary conditions have been adequately documented. Put in a request for your C-File and again review it for accuracy. All these things are easier to achieve while in the military.
      • Get the contact information of your buddies -- their testimony on a "buddy statement" or "statement in support of claim" may be the difference in a successful or unsuccessful claim.
      • Determine the best state to "return to" post-discharge as the benefits you are entitled to differ depending on what state you enlist and are discharged from.


      Again, I want to thank you for your service and hope you reach out to competent help for support.

      Comment


        #4
        Well, the DX is important and it can stink. Sorry about why you're here but pull up a chair and grab some coffee. We can cover some of the actual MS problems later in another thread but for now you should concentrate on what the AF's planning to do with you right now.

        Having over 18 years in (assuming all of it was active duty time) will probably work to your benefit. Don't sweat the AF kicking you out just so you can't retire. Look into something called "sanctuary".

        Next, be careful how you deal with the VA. They will probably be your choice for MS treatment PLUS they'll be doing your phys. screening in terms of stuff like over-all disability and means testing. Do NOT mess around with these folks. If you tell them everything is just ducky and you feel great, they WILL believe you and treat you as such. Likewise, you don't want to get caught making stuff up. Your credibilty is super important when you're just starting out with the VA.

        One quick thing about MS- NONE of the associated meds are cheap.
        The front-line MS meds cost something like 3 to 4 GRAND A MONTH. With the VA, they pick up a LOT of the cost (imagine paying 9 bucks a month for that 4 grand a month med) so a lot of us stick with the VA.

        I'd strongly suggest "lawyering up" once you get back to a state-side base. At a minimum, you want to ensure someone's got your (legal) back and the paperwork things are moving along as they should.

        Comment


          #5
          Originally posted by KatieAgain View Post
          I am assuming you are Air Force...I was too, and diagnosed on AD. Met an MEB and was retained.

          At 18.5 years, you will not be discharged. You will be retired and receive benefits to include Tricare. Since you have more than 18 years and have entered the stage called "sanctuary", it is possible that the AF will allow you to complete a full 20 years.

          In addition to your retirement benefits, you will be getting VA benefits to include disability pay if the VA rates you out at 50% or more. Your MS will be a minimum of 30%. It is not uncommon to get an initial rating and have to go back and keep getting it upgraded if and when your condition gets worse.

          When you get back to the States get yourself a good MS Specialist that accepts Tricare Standard. The majority of retirees are on Standard. Which means you need a Supplement. My Tricare Supplement costs me $67 a month through ASI.

          If you choose medical care through the VA, they will charge Tricare and you will never see a bill.

          Also keep in mind as a 30% disabled vet, you get a 10 point hiring preference for Civil Service.

          Good Luck to you and wishing you the best at the MEB.
          Thank yo for your informative responce Katie. There seems to so much in regards to being retired, something i was not planning on doing for years as i just extended. But sometimes the thought of not going back to afghanistan or other parts of the AOR and spending time with my family who i have uprooted so many times seems seems so much more relaxing and enjoyable. So being medicaly retired if that what they choose i will recieve tricare for life then, as i will have to supplement it though, Correct? The location where i am at right now there is no one to talk to about this and i refuse to just sit here and wait.

          As far as ratings go, if i am Medicaly retired what exactly do they look at? for example, I know the MS will be looked at; are other things in my medicaly records also looked at and combined with the final rating? I blew out three disks in my back during Operation Allied Force, L4, L5, and S1 its all in the records, to include the MRI reports. Should I bring up other things during this process?

          Long term, my main concern is enjoying life with my wife and family and want to make sure i'll be covered once im on my own.

          Again, Thank you for taking the time.

          Chris

          Comment


            #6
            Originally posted by Marco View Post
            First, thank you for your service to our country. You and your loved ones have certainly sacrificed for my benefit and I only wish you the best now. I've been out over 20 years so not all of my suggestions may apply to today's military.

            The entire thing comes down to you being informed of what the best decisions are and having the documentation to support it. Little things add up to $1000s and $1000s of dollars over your lifetime. People need to talk to you about the Caregiver Act, Individual Unemployability, and hopefully a full and permanent disability level.
            • First, do not let them discharge you until you are comfortable with your future benefits. It's much easier to impact your situation while you are still in uniform. The simple goal is to get rated a high as possible for your long-term benefit.
            • Consider calling your JAG officer and determine what legal rights you have to ensure you are not missing anything. You'd be surprised how checking the wrong box on a form can impact you for the long term.
            • Contact a Veterans Service Officer (VSO) in your immediate area or where you will return post-discharge. They will give you a laundry list of forms, documentation and what not you will need to create the best claim possible. If they are unable to help you see if they can point you in the right direction. Many people find The Disabled American Veterans and Paralyzed Veterans of America, superior to the American Legion and/or VFW when dealing with MS.
            • Ensure you have copies of your military medical record before getting out. Review it and fight to have any errors removed and/or edited. Ensure your secondary conditions have been adequately documented. Put in a request for your C-File and again review it for accuracy. All these things are easier to achieve while in the military.
            • Get the contact information of your buddies -- their testimony on a "buddy statement" or "statement in support of claim" may be the difference in a successful or unsuccessful claim.
            • Determine the best state to "return to" post-discharge as the benefits you are entitled to differ depending on what state you enlist and are discharged from.


            Again, I want to thank you for your service and hope you reach out to competent help for support.
            Marco,

            Thank you for the wealth of information. I am looking into that as I type this. Lord knows i wish i had those services here; their trying to fly out pretty quick and should know on Tuesday due to the holiday.

            Again, Thank you

            Chris

            Comment


              #7
              Originally posted by Bob698 View Post
              Well, the DX is important and it can stink. Sorry about why you're here but pull up a chair and grab some coffee. We can cover some of the actual MS problems later in another thread but for now you should concentrate on what the AF's planning to do with you right now.

              Having over 18 years in (assuming all of it was active duty time) will probably work to your benefit. Don't sweat the AF kicking you out just so you can't retire. Look into something called "sanctuary".

              Next, be careful how you deal with the VA. They will probably be your choice for MS treatment PLUS they'll be doing your phys. screening in terms of stuff like over-all disability and means testing. Do NOT mess around with these folks. If you tell them everything is just ducky and you feel great, they WILL believe you and treat you as such. Likewise, you don't want to get caught making stuff up. Your credibilty is super important when you're just starting out with the VA.

              One quick thing about MS- NONE of the associated meds are cheap.
              The front-line MS meds cost something like 3 to 4 GRAND A MONTH. With the VA, they pick up a LOT of the cost (imagine paying 9 bucks a month for that 4 grand a month med) so a lot of us stick with the VA.

              I'd strongly suggest "lawyering up" once you get back to a state-side base. At a minimum, you want to ensure someone's got your (legal) back and the paperwork things are moving along as they should.
              Bob,

              I'll be buying a good chair Yes, all my time is Active Duty and this is the second time i have heard the term "Sanctuary" so i'll be looking into that. When it comes to the VA i will be totally upfront, sometimes i put on a front and act like everything is ok, when its really not. That is a habbit i need to get out of doing, and i need to start now.

              I never knew the medication was that much $, and it great to know the VA picks up the bill for it, reagrdless if i have to put forth a few $.

              Once i get to the states, hopefully this week, as i'll be finding out the game plan on tuesday; i'll be going by the Legal office just to talk to them. I wasnt aware they could step in during an MEB process and offer advice or guidence.

              Thanks Bob!

              Chris

              Comment


                #8
                Originally posted by AFCC View Post
                Thank yo for your informative responce Katie. There seems to so much in regards to being retired, something i was not planning on doing for years as i just extended. But sometimes the thought of not going back to afghanistan or other parts of the AOR and spending time with my family who i have uprooted so many times seems seems so much more relaxing and enjoyable. So being medicaly retired if that what they choose i will recieve tricare for life then, as i will have to supplement it though, Correct? The location where i am at right now there is no one to talk to about this and i refuse to just sit here and wait.

                As far as ratings go, if i am Medicaly retired what exactly do they look at? for example, I know the MS will be looked at; are other things in my medicaly records also looked at and combined with the final rating? I blew out three disks in my back during Operation Allied Force, L4, L5, and S1 its all in the records, to include the MRI reports. Should I bring up other things during this process?

                Long term, my main concern is enjoying life with my wife and family and want to make sure i'll be covered once im on my own.

                Again, Thank you for taking the time.

                Chris
                I am a Retired AF Personnel Officer. But, my advice is only as good as the year 2009, therefore, I am "antiquated" and I don't spend my days reading new AFIs. Things do change that I might not be aware of. I personally would not be worried about the AF leaving you out to hang dry. Your MS will rate out at 30% or more (mandatory) and you will be put on the Permanent Disability Retirement List. You are also in Sanctuary, but the Board does not legally have to consider that because it is a medical condition, but it certainly will be a factor with 18.5 years. It will be in the back of those military officers minds as they are reviewing everything. Having to come back to the States, going through the MEB and various other things...I think you will find yourself at 20...I truly do, especially if you take my suggestions in the last paragraph.

                There are two types of Tricare for Retirees. Under 65, you get Tricare Standard or the Johns Hopkins Plan which is only available in certain parts of the Country. Once Medicare kicks in, you covert to Tricare for Life which will cover everything that Medicare does not cover. You will need to get a Supplement for Tricare Standard or pay $3000 out of pocket expenses every year. There is a deductible, I think it is $100 for the individual, and $150 for a family.

                All the MS meds are on the Tricare Formulary. Either way, Tricare or VA...your meds will be covered. Another worry I would throw out the window.

                You will also be going through the VA Disability Process before you get off Active Duty. This is a change, not sure how it works. You will get at least 30% plus percentages for other medical conditions such as Mental Health and your back is a big one! It is worth your time to visit a VSO at the local VA to get more info, before you get off AD.

                You will be assigned a PEBLO that will help you through this process, and you can have all Legal questions answered by the ADC or JAG...whoever you feel more comfortable with. These people are the ones that are the true experts and you should really be consulting these folks. They are "in-the-know".

                Four recommendations from me: 1) If you have not asked for a second opinion on your diagnosis, then you should. You are legally entitled to one and I would make sure it is a civilian MS Specialist. Ask for one before the MEB Process starts. Makes you feel better about the diagnosis and slows the whole thing up a bit. 2) If you are wanting to stay in longer, ask to make a personal appearance in front of the board. I did both...made it to 24 years...well worth my time. 3) Visit Mental Health. A diagnosis of MS, as well as retiring, as well as moving...stress, stress, and more stress. Not to mention future stress. Foot stomp...visit Mental Health. 4) AFIs are not written in stone. If you don't like something...appeal.

                Off my soap box. You served your Country for 18.5 years, get educated, make sure you get the benefits you deserve prior to leaving AD.

                Best of Luck to You and Your Family.
                Katie
                "Yep, I have MS, and it does have Me!"
                "My MS is a Journey for One."
                Dx: 1999 DMDS: Avonex, Copaxone, Rebif, currently on Tysabri

                Comment


                  #9
                  Originally posted by AFCC View Post
                  When it comes to the VA i will be totally upfront, sometimes i put on a front and act like everything is ok, when its really not. That is a habbit i need to get out of doing,
                  Chris- Good, we're on the same frequency.

                  I know "this guy" who ignored the obvious for five years or so because his pride wouldn't let him ask for help. I still kick my backside from time-to-time when I think of "that guy" and all the time he wasted.

                  You've got a LOT on your plate right now. Get your backside home in one piece first and then take it from there. You got outstanding replies to your thread, its all good info.

                  We'll be here in some form or another if you need us, or even if you just want to shoot the bull.

                  Comment


                    #10
                    MEB advice

                    Everyone has given you good advice concerning what to expect. I was allowed to remain on AD--helps when you are in a low manned career field-I am a Flight Med PA-C, critically manned. I have written 100's of MEB's in the past and assure you that it will take at least a year for the whole process. You will need to be evaluated by a state-side neurologist, I agree with KatieAgain, definitely see a civilian for a second opinion. After that your doc will want to give you time to adjust to your med and see how you do in order to submit a thorough MEB. After you have reached OMB-optimum medical benefit, your provider will right the MEB, it gets sent to Randolph, they sent it back, you go to the VA and then the MEB goes back to Randolph. You have been in the AF long enough to know how long this process will take.
                    The other medical conditions, such as back pain, will be briefly mentioned in your MEB and fully evaluated at your VA comp and pen exam.
                    I can safely say you will be medically retired, full benefits, with the 18.5 years of service. You might even be allowed to stay on AD if you do well, don't sell your career short, however your days of deploying are over.

                    Comment


                      #11
                      MEB Process

                      I cannot speak from the Air Force side of the MEB process; however, I recently just went through an MEB for RRMS and was found fit for service. Like Airforce PA I am also in a critically staffed position and my MS symptoms which are currently nonexistent do not hinder my AOC in the Army Medical Corp. So since I was found fit for service my MEB was very quick, and since I am stationed at a location that is doing the integrated IDES med board system my process was very quick (about 3 months). Now that being said, if I was found unfit for service you could tack on at least another 7 months for the VA in Seattle (where my claim would go) to make up their mind. There are some of us that are retained on active duty, so like AirForce PA said, do not sell your career short! Good Luck!

                      Comment


                        #12
                        I just arrived back in the states and all the appointments are in the works. Just waiting now for a time and a date. The days of deploying are over as I see it as well AF PA. Unfortunately I am in a career field that is over manned and MSgt's are on the chopping block in my AFSC (Surprisingly). I’m sure that will be taken into effect, or maybe I’m wrong.

                        I was assigned to the Patient Sq. here today and will remain here while everything is being processed and I make all of my appointments. I am going to be taking this time to talk to certain agencies on base to really educate myself on everything I’m entitled to if I am Medically separated , as I did not plan on getting out for few more years. Funny how things turn in such a short amount of time.


                        Everyone here has been extremly helpful, I cannot express that enough!

                        Comment


                          #13
                          Does a member have to have a total number of posts to send a PM or an email to anther member? for some reason I am not finding that option. ??

                          Comment


                            #14
                            These forums work a little differently than most.

                            For starters, all posts must be reviewed by a Mod before they appear. That can lead to some time lags but its done for a good reason.

                            There are no PMs here.

                            If someone chooses to, they can post their e-mail addy in their User Control section. Just click on a poster's name at the top of the post (while you're logged in) and if they enabled an addy, you'll have access to it.

                            Comment


                              #15
                              Sorry for the late response Bob, Ive been super busy with everything. Thanks for the Info!

                              Katie, I would like to side bar chat if that's possible. I'm not seeing an email for you, is there another way if at all possible?

                              Thanks!

                              Chris

                              Comment

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