DAF Form 618: Medical Board Report Guide (2026) – Service members facing medical issues that impact their ability to perform duties often enter the Department of the Air Force’s Disability Evaluation System (DES). At the heart of the Medical Evaluation Board (MEB) process is DAF Form 618, officially titled the Medical Board Report.
This form documents the MEB’s findings, diagnoses, and recommendations regarding a service member’s fitness for continued duty, separation, or retirement. Understanding DAF Form 618 is critical for active duty, Guard, and Reserve Air Force and Space Force personnel navigating potential medical separations or disability benefits.
What Is DAF Form 618?
DAF Form 618 is the official Medical Board Report used by the Department of the Air Force. It replaced the older AF Form 618 and serves as the cover sheet and summary for the MEB case file.
The form captures key details such as:
- Service member’s personal information (name, grade, SSN, DOB, organization)
- Medical diagnoses and findings
- Line of Duty (LOD) determinations
- Board recommendations (e.g., Return to Duty, referral to Informal Physical Evaluation Board)
- Sanity determinations (for relevant cases)
- Member acknowledgment section
The current version (DAF FORM 618, 20210811) is available as a fillable PDF from official Air Force e-Publishing sources.
Download the Official DAF Form 618 Here: https://static.e-publishing.af.mil/production/1/af_sg/form/daf618/daf618.pdf
Role of DAF Form 618 in the Air Force Disability Evaluation System (DES)
The DES helps maintain a fit and ready force while protecting the rights and benefits of service members with medical conditions. The process typically includes:
- Referral to MEB — When a condition may prevent worldwide duty or deployability (per DAFMAN 48-123).
- MEB Convening — A local Medical Treatment Facility (MTF) board reviews records, exams, and consults.
- Completion of DAF Form 618 — The board documents diagnoses, EPTS (Existed Prior to Service) status, LOD, and recommendations.
- Member Notification — The Physical Evaluation Board Liaison Officer (PEBLO) briefs the member, provides the form, Narrative Summary (NARSUM), and related documents.
- Member Options — Sign to acknowledge (does not mean agreement), request Impartial Medical Review (IMR), or submit a rebuttal.
- Forward to PEB — The package goes to the Informal Physical Evaluation Board (IPEB) at AFPC.
Important: Signing Block 27 on DAF Form 618 acknowledges that you received and were informed of the findings. It does not indicate agreement with the board’s recommendations. Your case proceeds regardless.
Key Sections of DAF Form 618
- Blocks 1-21: Administrative and service member info.
- Block 22-23: Purpose of the board and detailed diagnoses/findings (must align with DAFMAN 48-123 standards).
- LOD and EPTS Determinations: Critical for benefit eligibility.
- Block 24: Sanity determination (courts-martial related cases).
- Block 25: Board recommendations (Return to Duty, refer to IPEB, etc.).
- Block 26: Board member signatures (requires specific qualifications for mental health cases).
- Block 27: Service member acknowledgment.
- Block 28: Quality MEB review.
Continuation sheets are available for additional information.
What Happens After Signing DAF Form 618?
After acknowledgment, the MEB package moves forward. Timelines vary, but many service members report several months from MEB completion to final PEB findings and ratings. The Integrated Disability Evaluation System (IDES) coordinates VA and DoD ratings for smoother transitions.
Service members may:
- Be found Fit for duty and return to service.
- Be found Unfit, leading to separation or retirement with disability benefits.
- Receive Temporary Disability Retired List (TDRL) placement if the condition is not stable.
Tips for Service Members
- Review Thoroughly — Ensure diagnoses, dates, and LOD determinations are accurate.
- Seek Counsel — Contact the Area Defense Counsel (ADC) or a military disability attorney early. You have the right to representation.
- Consider IMR or Rebuttal — If you disagree with findings, these are formal ways to challenge them before the package goes to the PEB.
- Document Everything — Keep copies of all medical records, the 618, and communications.
- Understand Benefits — Outcomes affect medical retirement pay, VA compensation, TRICARE eligibility, and more.
Governing References:
- DAFMAN 48-108 (Medical Board Procedures)
- DAFI 36-3212 (Disability Evaluation)
- DoDI 1332.18 (Disability Evaluation System)
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Q: Is signing DAF Form 618 the same as agreeing to separation?
No. It only acknowledges receipt and briefing of the MEB results.
Q: How long does the process take after the 618?
Expect additional months for PEB review, ratings, and final disposition. Individual timelines vary based on complexity and elections.
Q: Where can I get help with my MEB?
Contact your PEBLO, ADC, or experienced military legal counsel. Base Patient Resources or Wounded Warrior programs also provide support.
Q: Can I download and fill out DAF Form 618 myself?
No. It is completed by the MEB at your MTF. Use the official link only for reference or as provided by your PEBLO.
Navigating a Medical Evaluation Board can feel overwhelming, but being informed empowers you to advocate effectively for your health and career. For the most current guidance, consult your local PEBLO, official Air Force publications, or DAFMAN 48-108.
This article is for informational purposes only and is not legal or medical advice. Policies and procedures can change; always verify with official Department of the Air Force sources and qualified professionals.