Statistical Measurement and Analysis of Claimant and Demographic Variables Affecting Processing and Adjudication Duration in The United States Army Physical Disability Evaluation System

摘要

U.S. Army disability records processed in Fiscal Year 1996 were examined for variables affecting processing and adjudication time. The dependent variable examined was days. Independent variables included age, race, gender, grade, component, length of service, retirement eligibility, request for congressional involvement, request for formal physical evaluation board (PEB), compensation award and regional PEB. The research suggests the Physical Disability Evaluation System (PDES) is remarkably fair and unbiased in terms of the process and process duration. Variations in individual disability awards were not examined. Recommendations for improving the PDES center on a systems oriented approach to disability management as a concept of integrated health care delivery.