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?

• You need only one exam.
• You may be complete it at a military hospital or clinic or at a VA facility.
• DOD and VA share results of the exam with each other.

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.