Which board is the final component in PDES the system?

• A. Physical Disability Appeal Board (PDAB)
• B. Medical Evaluation Board
• C. Command Fitness Board
• D. Rating Board

Answer: (A)

In the PDES flow, after medical conditions are identified and a disability rating is determined, the last level of review is the Physical Disability Appeal Board. This board is the final opportunity to review the decision, ensuring the process was followed correctly and considering any new evidence the member submits on appeal. It does not re-do medical examinations; it assesses the record and the justification for the original decision to decide whether to modify or uphold it. The other boards play earlier roles: the Medical Evaluation Board identifies and assesses impairments; the Command Fitness Board looks at fitness for continued service; the Rating Board assigns the disability rating after the PEB. So the final component is the Physical Disability Appeal Board.