New program expedites benefits for the wounded

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New program expedites benefits for the wounded
By Leo Shane III, Stars and Stripes
Mideast edition, Saturday, January 24, 2009

WASHINGTON — Severely injured combat troops could bypass months of waiting for veterans benefits under a new program unveiled Thursday by the Defense Department.

The Expedited Disability Evaluation System Process, a cooperative effort between the Defense and Veterans Affairs departments, would allow troops with “catastrophic” combat injuries to move from active-duty to veteran status within three or four months, making them eligible for veterans benefits immediately.

Typically, that process can take more than a year, according to Pentagon spokeswoman Eileen Lainez. About 200 troops a year could be affected by the change.

In a statement, acting Undersecretary of Defense for Personnel Michael Dominguez said the move is designed to help servicemembers and their families “focus on the essentials of recovery, reintegration, employment and independent living.”

Only troops who would receive a 100 percent disability rating under VA rules will be considered for the speedier process. By moving them from active-duty care to the VA, officials hope those servicemembers will be able to move home quicker, taking advantage of veterans’ benefits like at-home medical assistance.


Rest of article at: http://www.stripes.com/article.asp?section=104&article=60206