AF Form 1139: Request for Tumor Board Appraisal – If you’re an active-duty Airman, Air Force Reserve or Air National Guard member, dependent, or medical professional working in a U.S. Air Force Medical Treatment Facility (MTF), you may need AF Form 1139. This official form requests a formal Tumor Board appraisal and recommendation for patients diagnosed with tumors or cancer. It ensures multidisciplinary expert input on diagnosis, treatment, and follow-up care within the Air Force Medical Service (AFMS).
In this comprehensive, SEO-optimized guide for U.S. service members and families, you’ll learn exactly what AF Form 1139 is, when it’s required, how to complete it step-by-step, and where to download the latest fillable PDF directly from official Air Force e-Publishing.
What Is AF Form 1139?
AF Form 1139 (formerly AF IMT 1139) is titled “REQUEST FOR TUMOR BOARD APPRAISAL AND RECOMMENDATION.” It is a one-page, official U.S. Air Force medical form published by the Air Force Surgeon General (AF/SG).
- Form Number: AF Form 1139
- Date: 1 April 1978 (V1) – still the current edition hosted on e-Publishing
- Privacy Act: Subject to the Privacy Act of 1974 (use Blanket PAS – DD Form 2005)
- Purpose: To document a patient’s clinical summary and formally request review by a multidisciplinary Tumor Board (oncologists, surgeons, radiologists, pathologists, etc.) for appraisal and treatment recommendations.
Tumor Boards are standard in high-quality cancer care. In the Air Force, they help standardize care, support medical fitness determinations (especially for flying or special operations personnel), and document follow-up requirements for potential waivers under DAFMAN 48-123, Medical Examinations and Standards.
Why Is AF Form 1139 Important in the U.S. Air Force?
Cancer and tumor diagnoses in military personnel require careful coordination because they can affect deployability, flying status, retention, and benefits. The Tumor Board review documented on AF Form 1139:
- Provides expert consensus on treatment options
- Establishes a recommended follow-up schedule
- Helps determine aeromedical waivers or duty limitations (cross-referenced in older AFI 48-123 and current DAFMAN 48-123)
- Supports continuity of care across MTFs, TRICARE, and VA systems
- Ensures compliance with Air Force oncology standards
Who uses it?
- Attending physicians or dentists in Air Force MTFs
- Flight surgeons evaluating aircrew with tumor histories
- Oncologists and multidisciplinary teams
- Medical records administrators supporting fitness-for-duty or retirement boards
Step-by-Step: How to Fill Out AF Form 1139?
The form is straightforward and divided into two main sections. Here’s exactly how to complete it (based on the official PDF):
Patient Information (Header)
- Last Name, First Name, Middle Initial
- Sex, Race
- Patient’s Address
- Medical Treatment Facility (MTF)
- Date of Birth
- SSAN (Social Security Number)
Section I – Clinical Summary (Completed by Attending Physician or Dentist)
- Diagnosis
- Brief History – Include initial symptoms, date of symptoms, date first seen, how/where/when diagnosis was established.
- Treatment and Therapy Performed
- Other – Additional therapy proposed, follow-up schedule, etc.
- Typed name, signature, and date of attending physician or dentist
- Note: If different from attending provider, reference AFR 160-64 (historical guidance)
Section II – Tumor Board Evaluation
- Board Recommendations for:
- A. (Specific recommendations)
- B. Desired follow-up schedule
- C. Requirement for repeated presentation at specified intervals
- D. Variances (if any) from majority opinion
- Remarks
- Board Members Present (list names/roles)
- Typed name, signature, and date of Tumor Board Recorder
Tip: The form must be legible. Use the fillable PDF for best results. Always attach supporting pathology reports, imaging, and labs when submitting to the Tumor Board.
Where to Download AF Form 1139 (Official & Fillable)?
Direct official download (U.S. Air Force e-Publishing):
Download AF Form 1139 PDF
This is the authoritative source. The form is always free, up-to-date, and compliant with Air Force standards. Third-party sites may offer fillable versions, but always verify against the official e-Publishing link for the latest version.
Related Air Force Publications
- DAFMAN 48-123 – Medical Examinations and Standards (current guidance on tumor documentation and waivers)
- Older references: AFI 48-123 (pre-2020) and AFI 44-110 (Air Force Cancer Program)
- TRICARE and MTF oncology services for active-duty, retirees, and families
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) about AF Form 1139
Q: Is AF Form 1139 still current in 2026?
Yes. It remains the active form on the official Air Force e-Publishing website.
Q: Who can request a Tumor Board?
Primarily the attending physician or dentist at an Air Force MTF. Patients do not fill it out themselves.
Q: Do I need a new Tumor Board for waiver renewal?
Generally no — adequate follow-up documentation is usually sufficient per medical standards guidance.
Q: Where is the form submitted?
To the local MTF Tumor Board or as directed by your flight surgeon/oncologist.
Q: Can dependents or retirees use this form?
It is primarily for active-duty and MTF patients, but the Tumor Board process supports comprehensive cancer care for all eligible beneficiaries.
Final Thoughts
AF Form 1139 is a critical tool in the Air Force’s commitment to world-class cancer care. By formalizing Tumor Board review, it helps ensure every Airman receives expert, evidence-based recommendations while maintaining readiness and medical standards.
If you’re preparing this form for yourself, a patient, or a service member, download it directly from the official link above and work with your MTF provider. Early, coordinated care through the Tumor Board process can make all the difference in outcomes and career impact.
Need help? Contact your local Air Force Medical Treatment Facility Oncology or Aerospace Medicine clinic. For the most current guidance, always refer to DAFMAN 48-123 and the official e-Publishing portal.
Keywords: AF Form 1139, Request for Tumor Board, Air Force tumor board form, AF Form 1139 PDF, military cancer care, Air Force medical forms, DAFMAN 48-123, Air Force oncology
Last updated: April 2026 – Information sourced directly from official U.S. Air Force publications and e-Publishing.