The Separation Health Assessment is a medical evaluation used by the Department of Defense and Department of Veterans Affairs.
- In the DOD, we call it “Separation History and Physical Examination”
- In the VA, they call it the “Disability Exam”
Are you a Service member who is separating, retiring, or deactivating?
The Separation Health Assessment documents and assesses your:
- Medical history
- Medical concerns identified during your military career
- Current health status
How It Works
- Schedule your exam at a military hospital or clinic or VA facility well in advance of your scheduled separation date.
- If you’re filing a VA claim, schedule it no later than 90 days before your separation date.
- If you’re taking extended terminal leave, it’s best that you schedule at an military hospital or clinic.
- If overseas or finishing a deployment, follow your Services’ guidance for scheduling the exam.
- Before the exam, complete the DD Form 2807-1, “Report of Medical History”.
- At your exam, the examiner reviews your answers and ensures claimed contentions are addressed in the exam report. This becomes part of your record.
- The examiner reviews your current health status and your complete medical history, including the DD Form 2807-1. This is to see if you need further treatment or evaluations for any medical concerns.
- The assessment results are then accessible by both the DOD and VA. You won’t need another exam if you decide to file a VA claim.
Frequently Asked Questions
Questions and answers about the Separation Health Assessment
Q1:
Why are all service members required to get the SHPE before leaving active duty?
A:
The DOD requires a separation history and physical examination (SHPE) to capture the complete medical history of service members and evaluate members filing a disability claim.
Results are accessible by both the DOD and VA so even if you’re not filing a VA claim now, the results are available if you decide to file a disability claim later.
Q4:
How do I file a VA disability claim?
A:
You can file a VA disability claim through eBenefits, in person with a Veterans Service Organization, or with a VA representative at a military installation. Submit a copy of your Service Treatment Record (STR) from your current period of military service and any copies of private treatment records not associated with TRICARE referrals. For more information on VA disability benefits, call 1-800-827-1000 or visit the VA’s website.
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FAQ
Feb 27, 2024
Questions and answers about the Separation Health Assessment
Form/Template
Dec 13, 2016
The primary collection of this information is from individuals seeking to join the Armed Forces. The information collected on this form is used to assist DOD physicians in making determinations as to acceptability of applicants for military service and verifies disqualifying medical condition(s) noted on the prescreening form (DD Form 2807-2).
Policy
Apr 14, 2016
This issuance establishes policy and assigns responsibilities for completion of a SHPE as the principal component of the DoD-Department of Veterans Affairs (VA) SHA Program in compliance with Section 1145(a) of Title 10, U.S.C. and the 2013-2015 Joint Executive Committee Joint Strategic Plan.
- Identification #: DoD Instruction 6040.46
- Type: Instruction