17th MDG unveils streamlined system Published May 9, 2011 By Capt. David Abbott 17th Medical Group GOODFELLOW AIR FORCE BASE, Texas -- The Department of Defense and Veterans Affairs are integrating their disability evaluation systems. DoD uses the Integrated Disability Evaluation System, or IDES, to determine if service members who have been wounded, ill, or injured are still able to serve. If they are not, the IDES gives them a DoD and VA disability rating before they leave military service. The DoD rating determines military disability compensation. The VA rating helps the service member understand the level of compensation and benefits the VA will be able to provide. The IDES also helps service members file their VA benefits claim before they leave the service so they get their VA disability compensation and benefits quickly. Integrating the DoD and VA processes eliminates the benefits gap faced by disabled veterans under the previous Disability Evaluation System. The IDES has been tested in a pilot program at 27 locations, successfully integrating DoD and VA processes for 47 percent of service members referred for evaluation. Worldwide expansion by October will give the same opportunity to all service members worldwide. Goodfellow implemented the IDES system March 31. With the IDES system service members will be getting their disability benefits no later than 30 days from separation. For questions or more information on the IDES system please contact Staff Sgt. Heather Kelly, Physical Evaluation Board Liaison Officer at DSN 477-1487 or (325)-654-1487.
