To the left is flowchart illustrating the steps involved with processing a MEB case. Some of the steps may be repeated due to the difficulty of a case or requests for more information. The DOD sets an allowable time for processing MEB cases at 30 days.

Following the diagram, the physician examines the soldier, initiates necessary consults from other departments, orders a complete physical, and reviews the soldier's medical history. The Clinical information collected must include "a medical history, appropriate physical examination, medical tests and results, all consultations, diagnoses, treatment and prognosis" (DODI 1332.38, 1996, E3.P1.2.3). To ensure standardization, physicians who prepare MEBs are encouraged to use the Department of Veterans Affairs' Physician's Guide for Disability Evaluation Examinations to indicate the nature and degree of severity of the soldier's condition.

Once all of the necessary activities are complete, the physician dictates the narrative summary (NARSUM). This NARSUM is typed and sent through the PEBLO for review. The PEBLO checks the NARSUM for completeness and accuracy then sends the NARSUM to the dictating physician. The physician reviews the NARSUM and if he believes it is accurate, signs it and returns the document to the PEBLO.

The PEBLO is responsible for case management of the soldier. PEBLOs annotate significant dates and assist soldiers in getting medical appointments. They are the first to know if the process has slowed or halted. Throughout the process the PEBLOs keep soldiers informed and communicate with the soldier's unit. When the PEBLO has a complete MEB packet, he takes the case to the Deputy Commander for Clinical Services (DCCS) for review. The DCCS is the final approving authority on the MEB case and must signify his approval before the packet goes to the Physical Evaluation Board (PEB). Once the PEBLO receives the approved MEB case from the DCCS, he counsels the soldier on the findings. If the soldier agrees, he signs and the case is sent to the PEB.

MEB packets submitted to the PEB must include a complete narrative summary of the case. In reaching any conclusions, physician(s) must consider all medical examination evidence, medical history, results of x-rays and laboratory tests, reports of consultations, and responses to therapy. More than just medical information is required to complete a MEB packet. As described below, several requirements must be met by the servicing personnel center and the unit commander.

1. Member's name, rank, grade, and social security number;
2. Specialty of the signatory physicians;
3. Clinical department or service;
4. Medical treatment facility and its location;
5. Date MEB was conducted;
6. Copy of the line of duty determination;
7. Letter from the soldier's commander describing how the member's medical condition impacts job performance and deployability status;
8. Military history to include date of first and most recent entry into the service; estimated termination of service; administrative actions ongoing, pending, or completed;
9. Chief complaint, preferably stated in the soldier's own words;
10. Social information including living arrangements, marital status, leisure activity, acquaintances, substance use or abuse, police encounters/record;
11. Functional status of the soldier;
12. Statement regarding prognosis for functional prognosis post-treatment period;
13. Stability of current clinical condition;
14. Statement of compliance with treatment recommendations and reasonableness of any refusal of recommended treatment procedures;
15. Requirement for monitoring including frequency of indicated treatment and/or therapy visits and associated operational assignment limitations; and
16. Official documents identifying next of kin if service member is legally incompetent.