I am getting medically retired. What important things should I keep track of or advise you might have?

2017-08-15T12:32:34-04:00

I'm getting medically retired and have a lot to do and keep track of. I'm expecting to be out or at least on transition leave in October and my unit is possibly going to put me on as the staff duty NCO 23 September. any suggestions or help. what I am looking for was advice on things to help keep track of things and if there is stuff to remember to do or best practice type stuff and any help and advice.(also just for info staff duty requires going up stairs and that hurts to do.) so any advice or help on any of this would be greatly appreciated.

Response by SGT David T. made Aug 15 at 2017 12:43 PM

2017-08-15T12:43:35-04:00

Speaking from my horrible experience with the transition program, the two days dealing with staff duty shouldn't have a major impact on you. Much of it can be done online, so as long as your unit doesn't have any stupid rules about such things, you should be able to get some done while on duty. There is no doubt that there is much to do and much to keep up with, but it is doable even with the inconvenience of a staff duty shift and recovery.

Response by SSG Private RallyPoint Member made Aug 15 at 2017 12:58 PM

2017-08-15T12:58:55-04:00

As things get hectic, keeping track of things may become your worst nightmare so I would say use tools like Google Calendar and Google Keep and Google Docs to help. Any app that syncs to your phone, easily accessed from your computer, and emails you reminders. Apps that can be accessed as long as you have some form of internet. I have all my appointments always syncing up between my phone and calendar (which I color code between personal/work/military/other), to do lists and phone numbers within my Google Keep which acts as a notepad on the go, and Docs to store digital versions of documents I may need with me so I'm not toting a large portfolio of paperwork all around though that is a good back up. Make notes of who you speak with at what appointment or out processing for reference. Utilize your down time during staff duty to prepare for your next phase of life.

Another thing you will want to do is to go to where your medical records are stored (local TMC, hospital, etc) and use whatever procedure you need to request at least 2 copies of your medical file before it ends up having to go into VA storage after you get discharged so you have your own copies, and can utilize this to help any medical claims after you get out in the case your records are in transient limbo.

Response by MAJ Private RallyPoint Member made Aug 15 at 2017 2:28 PM

2017-08-15T14:28:30-04:00

You also have to prepare for life beyond the military. Do you have a resume and LinkedIn profile that are up to date? Do you have a network that can get your resume in the door? Have you attended the SFL-TAP class? Great class - highly recommend!

Response by LTC Eugene Chu made Aug 15 at 2017 3:01 PM

2017-08-15T15:01:08-04:00

In addition to the advice from other posters, keep copies of your medical documents. Once you medically retire, you will deal with the VA for some health care and disability. If you need to file claims or seek an upgrade, you need proof of your injuries and ailments for both pay and coverage.

Response by AA Joseph Moody made Aug 15 at 2017 3:16 PM

2017-08-15T15:16:49-04:00

Obvious stuff aside (I'm just going to assume that you know enough to get 2 copies of all of your paperwork)
After that, get some contact details for people for references and if your job hunt is going a bit slow when you get out, you may turn your attention to volunteer work, if nothing else it fills the gaps in your resume.

Response by SGT Kevin Gardner made Aug 15 at 2017 3:17 PM

2017-08-15T15:17:59-04:00

Your best bet if you are being medically retired is to transfer to the WTU, they will have resources and information you need for before and after you are put out. My company kept me out because they wanted me around, it was a mistake I made allowing them to do this. Do yourself a favor and get over to WTU.

Response by SGT Joseph Gunderson made Aug 15 at 2017 4:12 PM

2017-08-15T16:12:42-04:00

Make sure you keep track of all of your appointments. The schedule can sometimes get overwhelming. Also, ensure that you are already prepared to turn in everything if you haven't already. Every single piece of paperwork that you get handed, make sure to file them away. I would advise purchasing one of those accordion style file folders to store everything in; this will make it easier when you get out to locate everything that you will need for the VA and school if you are deciding to go that route. In addition, when you get your DD214 make sure to make copies of each right away. Never let yourself get down to under two copies of each form, this just makes life easier. As far as the Staff Duty goes, as long as they are adhering to whatever your profiles state there really isn't much you can do about that. Good luck.

Response by Cpl Justin Goolsby made Aug 15 at 2017 5:46 PM

2017-08-15T17:46:09-04:00

Well, go to your medical appointments, keep everything documented, and try to play ball as best as you can. A lot of commands don't like people getting out medically because they take up space on the roster. So don't be surprised if someone tries to bring you up on charges. Show up late for work, write up paperwork. Uniform not looking good, more paperwork. So whatever you do, don't give them a reason to kick you out before your medical separation.

Response by SGT Chris Moore made Aug 15 at 2017 7:09 PM

2017-08-15T19:09:06-04:00

Dd214

Response by CAPT Kevin B. made Aug 15 at 2017 8:06 PM

2017-08-15T20:06:34-04:00

The medical record focus typically is what is getting you medically retired. People forget to get the rest of it in shape too. You want everything documented. Snore? Get a sleep study prior. If sleep apnea is diagnosed, then that's something else that gets taken care of. It's harder to get stuff owned by the MIL/TRICARE/VA side once you get out. Get current on dental too.

Response by CPO Robert (Mac) McGovern made Aug 16 at 2017 2:33 PM

2017-08-16T14:33:32-04:00

First and foremost, make sure you get a complete copy of your medical records. Make sure all documents related to your medical discharge are complete. for instance, if you are not 100% disabled and are still not able to work you may qualify for Social Security Disability. If you have a complete detailed record, it makes receiving SSI a much easier task. Check out all your benefits and what you can expect prior to departure.

If you have academic training in the military and in college, have your experience, course work, and certifications evaluated for college credit. The form you receive will be important if you decide to go to college once you are discharged.

Work up a case hardened resume. Get professional help if you want to produce a resume that will get recruiters and employers attention. There are people at the base who can provide this service as part of your transition.

Create a profile on LinkedIn. It is free and their job board lists thousands of jobs available in your area and nationally. Additionally, it is a great site for making connections that can help you succeed. If you are interested in staying in government service, do not forget the VA in your searches. Do not wait until you get out unless you cannot work, to look for employment.

I wish you and yours the very best in your retirement years and thank you for your service.

Response by SSG Michael Needham made Aug 16 at 2017 10:04 PM

2017-08-16T22:04:43-04:00

Records , Records and more records . Anything related to why it happened ,how it happened who witnessed who treated you