Manual of the Medical Department (NAVMED P-117): Chapter 15: Medical Examinations: Medical Examinations
Department of the Navy
Bureau of Medicine and Surgery
(a) Members who have been evaluated by a medical board.
(b) Recruit or trainee discharged by reason of aptitude board action prior to completion of 90 days of active duty.
(2) Separation physical examinations will conform to articles 15-8 and 15-9. Separation standards are the same as those for retention, with the following additions:
(a) Members with communicable diseases, e.g. tuberculosis or venereal disease, will not be separated until noninfectious.
(b) Members found to have a condition that is physically disqualifying for continued active duty. In such instances, a medical board will be convened.
(3) Separation examinations will normally be completed within 6 months of the actual date of separation, although members who have a retirement date, transfer to the Fleet Reserve, or are nearing high year tenure will undergo complete examination at least 1 year before separation. Within 45 days of actual separation, members must have their examinations reviewed and any significant interim history documented in block 73 of the SF-88.
(4) Each member will be required to read the following statement at the time of examination:
You are being examined because of your separation from active duty. If you feel you have a serious defect or condition that interferes, or has interfered, with the performance of your military duties, advise the examiner. If you are considered by the examiner to be not physically qualified for separation, you will be referred for further evaluation, and, if indicated, appearance before a medical board. If, however, you are found physically qualified for separation, any defects will recorded in item 74 of the SF-88 or on a SF-600. Such defects, while not considered disqualifying for military service, may entitle you to certain benefits from the Department of Veterans Affairs (DVA). H you desire any funkier information in this regard, contact the DVA office nearest your home after your separation.
(5) For members being separated prior to completion of 90 days service, the following entry must be made on a SF-600, signed by the member, and witnessed by a MDR:
You have been examined during the past 90 days and are considered physically qualified for separation from active duty. No defects have been noted that would disqualify you from the performance of your duties or entitle you to disability benefits from the naval service. Should you believe the foregoing is not correct, a medical officer will evaluate your concerns, and, if indicated, refer you to an appropriate site for further study. To receive disability benefits from the Navy, you must be unfit to perform the duties of your office, grade, or rating because of disease or injury incurred while you are entitled to receive basic pay. After you are separated, any claims for disability benefits must be submitted to the Department of Veterans Affairs. Indicate by your signature that you understand the foregoing statement.
(6) All members will also be requested to sign the following entry on item 73 of the SF-88 or on a SF-600:
I have been informed of and understand the provisions of article 15-29 of the Manual of the Medical Department.
Refusal of the member to sign this statement will not delay separation. The examiner must note in item 73 of the SF-88 or on the SF-600 that the provisions of article 15-29 have been fully explained to the member, who declines to sign a statement to that effect.