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The three phases of medical release

From: Office of the National Defence and Canadian Armed Forces Ombudsman

This information will help guide medically-releasing Canadian Armed Forces (CAF) members and their families through the process. This is a sample to consider while you navigate the three phases of your medical release. This is not official policy or instructions.

If you have any questions or concerns, contact your chain of command, your CAF Nurse Case Manager, or your local CAF Transition Centre (CAF TC).

If you are dissatisfied with a decision taken during your release process, you may submit a grievance to your commanding officer within three months of the decision. Remember that this process is time sensitive. Once you are released from the CAF, you no longer have the right to file a grievance. However, any grievance you may have submitted before your release will still be considered. For more information, contact your local Conflict Solutions and Services (CSS) office.

Every release situation is unique and certain elements are time sensitive. Do not hesitate to contact our office if exceptional reasons prevent you from addressing any concerns through regular channels. Such circumstances include time sensitivity, health, security, or financial concerns. In cases where compelling reasons exist, we can ensure that all relevant parties, with your written permission, are informed of you circumstances.

Phase 1 

Phase 1: From injury or diagnosis of an illness to Director Military Careers Administration's (DMCA) medical release decision

Phase 1 addresses questions that may arise from the time you’re injured or diagnosed with an illness to the time of the DMCA’s decision about your medical release. 

  • You have been in an accident, been injured, or been diagnosed with an illness.

    Complete a CF 98 – Report of Injury, Disease or Illness form that is available only on the Defence Team Intranet Defence Forms Catalogue. Be sure to provide the names and contact information of any witnesses so that their statements may be obtained. If you are unable to access the Intranet, contact your supervisor or your orderly room staff for assistance.

    If you are injured or become ill during your service, complete a CF-98 form.

    If you release from the CAF, request a copy of your medical files including your CF-98 forms. Veterans Affairs Canada (VAC) will use this information to determine whether your illness or injury is attributable to service or was aggravated by service. This could affect your eligibility for benefits.

    Consult one of the following groups to find resources in your area to help assess your condition:

    You may also qualify for other benefits and services. For example:

    • Consult the Military Benefits Browser to learn about your potential entitlement to benefits and services if you are ill or injured or transitioning out of the CAF.
    • Contact Veterans Affairs Canada (VAC) if you believe that your military service may have caused or aggravated an injury or illness. You may do this by creating a My VAC Account in order to determine if you are entitled to VAC benefits and services while serving.
    • Consult the VAC Benefits Navigator to determine your eligibility for VAC programs and services.
    • If you are transitioning out of the CAF, consult the Digital Transition Centre. This Centre provides a central and virtual location to help you plan and complete your transition to post-service life.
    • Locate your closest Transition Centre, where you and your family can obtain information, services, and support from military to civilian transition subject-matter experts.
  • You have received a Temporary Medical Category (TCat).

    Talk to your health care providers about the treatment and prognosis of your condition. Find out if a referral to a CAF Nurse Case Manager would help coordinate your health care and service needs. Advise your chain of command about your TCat assignment as well as your employment limitations.

    If you are or will be returning to work, talk to your health care providers about the CAFs’ Return to Duty (RTD) services.

    Contact the Service Income Security Insurance Plan (SISIP FINANCIAL) to find out if you qualify for any benefits.

    Remember that not all medical conditions result in leaving the CAF or the DND. Learn more by consulting My Transition Guide’s In-Service Transition Options.

  • You have received a Permanent Medical Category (PCat).

    The process of obtaining a PCat starts when the Director Medical Policy (D Med Pol) completes a form entitled DND 4345 Medical Employment Limitations for Administrative Review. For more information on a PCat and the Administrative Review (AR) process, consult the Medical Employment Limitations pamphlet, the CAF – Medical Release Process video and Defence Administrative Orders and Directives (DAOD) 5019-2, Administrative Review.

    You will then be referred to a CAF Nurse Case Manager who will discuss your medical circumstances with you in order to determine whether a Return to Duty plan or your transition out of the military represents the most appropriate response. This may include coordination of your transition interview with VAC.

    As part of Enhanced Transition Services, a CFHS Nurse Case Manager will refer you to VAC for assignment of either a Case Manager or a Veterans Services Administrator (VSA). If your medical circumstances are deemed to be "complex", a VAC Case Manager will work closely with the CAF Case Manager to develop joint case plans. They will continue to work together to ensure ongoing monitoring and adjustment of case plans during the transition period. The CFHS Nurse Case Manager is the primary Case Manager while you are still in service.

    VAC becomes your primary Case Manager at your time of release. If your medical circumstances have NOT been deemed complex, you will be assigned a VAC VSA. This individual will provide enhanced transition support based in part on a transition interview with you and your family.

    For more information, review the Canadian Forces Health Services (CFHS) Case Management video and the My Transition Guide.

    As you work through this process, consider doing the following:

    • Talk with your health care providers about the treatment and prognosis of your condition.
    • Visit or contact the nearest CAF TC to review the services and resources that may be available to you during your recovery or transition. Your first referrals to the CAF TC will help determine if you have non-complex or complex transition needs. As such, they will allow the CFHS Nurse Case Manager and the VAC Case Manager to coordinate your transition.
    • Contact SISIP FINANCIAL to learn if you are eligible for CAF Long Term Disability (CAF LTD) in case of your medical release.
    • Contact your local base or wing Personnel Selection Office or Education Office to get information about the services available to you. These services may include career counselling or the Second Career Assistance Network (SCAN) Program.
    • Involve your family as early as possible in your RTD or transition process. You may do this by sharing your concerns, exploring options together, and getting information about possible benefits and services that may be available for CAF families.
    • Consult our Military Benefits Browser to learn about your eligibility for benefits and services if you are ill or injured or transitioning out of the CAF.
    • Contact VAC to learn if you are eligible for any programs or services after your release. In addition, use VAC’s Benefits Navigator to determine your eligibility for VAC programs and services.

    As a CAF member, you may qualify for promotions despite your PCat. Learn more by consulting CANFORGEN 012/17 – De-linking of Medical Condition from Promotion Criteria. You must still meet all other promotion criteria to receive a substantive promotion. CANFORGENS are available on the Defence Team Intranet or via the CAF Mobile App.

  • You’re undergoing a transition needs complexity assessment by the CAF Nurse Case Manager.

    Nurse Case Managers use a comprehensive assessment process called “Complexity Assessment”. This assessment determines the complexity of your overall health care needs by examining your physical, psychological, and social needs as well as relevant health care system factors. Learn more by watching the CFHS Case Management video.

    Your assessment may lead to your referral for the development of an Integrated Transition Plan (ITP) if your transition needs are determined to be complex.

    At this stage, you should learn about the CAF Vocational Rehabilitation Program for Serving Members (VRPSM) and the CAF LTD Vocational Rehabilitation Program (VRP) offered by SISIP Financial.

    • The VRPSM will allow you, if you have been notified about an impeding item 3(a) or 3(b) medical release and if your commanding officer approves it, to start vocational rehabilitation training for up to six months before your final release date.
    • The CAF LTD VRP is one component of the CAF LTD plan that is available to you if:
    • you have been medically released,
    • you are about to be medically released, or
    • you have been assessed as 'Totally Disabled' by the insurer, Manulife, and have been approved for benefits under the CAF LTD plan.

    The primary goal of the CAF LTD VRP is to provide vocational rehabilitation support to assist you in transitioning to civilian employment by enhancing your existing education, skills, training and experience, if required.

  • Your PCat is undergoing an AR process.

    Start by reviewing your advisory message and the related documents that you received from the DMCA. This documentation will provide you with basic information about the Administrative Review of Medical Employment Limitations (AR/MEL).

    Secondly, watch the CAF – Medical Release Process video for information about your disclosure package. Some of the video’s information will inform you about what to do to make representation and waive disclosure. If you are considering waiving disclosure, discuss the potential impact of this move with your chain of command. You should also consider meeting with your CAF Nurse Case Manager, Personnel Selection Office, and CAF TC before submitting a waiver. In addition, you should consult the Administrative Review – Medical Employment Limitations which is available only on the Defence Team Intranet.

    If you have not already done so, contact VAC to schedule a transition interview to learn about the programs and services for which you and your family may be entitled.

    Finally, consult the Digital Transition Centre to plan and complete your transition to post-service life. You may book a consultation with a Transition Advisor to guide you through the process.

  • You want to request a posting to the CAF Transition Group (CAF TG).

    The CAF TG will support you with both tailored, professional and standardized services as you transition from active duty to post-military life or prepare for RTD.

    Local CAF TCs will provide you with personal administrative support and programs if you are ill or injured. CAF members do not have to be posted to the CAF TC to receive services.

    Depending on your service status, you may obtain information about CAF TG from the following sources:

  • You do not want to leave the CAF and feel you can still serve in the military.

    Start by consulting the My Transition Guide to learn about In-Service Transition Options.

    You should also refer to CANFORGEN 021/23 - Amendment to DAOD 5023-1 Period of retention subject to employment limitations. CANFORGENs are available on the Defence Team Intranet or via the CAF Mobile App.

    Once you have received your disclosure package from the DMCA, you have 30 calendar days to respond in writing. As part of your response, you may provide any new information that you believe justifies why you are still employable within the CAF.

    Disclosure involves DMCA distribution of a package that contains all the information that will be used to decide your file. Learn more about this process by reviewing the CAF – Medical Release Process video.

    You may request an extension if you feel you have not been given enough time to prepare your rebuttal. You also have the right to ask for an assisting officer to help prepare your response.

    If you are dissatisfied with a decision taken during your release process, you may submit a grievance to your commanding officer within three months of the decision. Remember that the grievance process is time sensitive. Once you are released from the CAF, you may no longer file a grievance. However, any grievance submitted before your release will still be considered. For more information, contact your local Conflict Solutions and Services (CSS) office.

    Finally, do not hesitate to contact our office if exceptional reasons prevent you from addressing your concerns through regular channels. Such reasons include time sensitivity, health, security, or financial concerns. In cases where compelling reasons exist, we can make sure to inform all relevant parties about your circumstances.

  • You want to request a period of retention.

    IMPORTANT: This exceptional practice to retain CAF members permanently in breach of the minimum operational standards will end as of 1 Apr 2025. CANFORGEN 021/23 recently announced changes retention period changes. As of 9 February 2023, all new or previously approved periods of retention will end on 1 April 2025.

    You may be considered for a period of retention if you’re not assessed as having complex transition requirements.

    This option may be available if both of the following circumstances are applicable to you:

    • You can work full time to perform all military duties of your position except those related to your Medical Employment Limitations (MELs).
    • A specific military position is available for your employment as assigned by your career manager.

    Once you request a period of retention, DMCA will consider several factors (e.g. labour shortages in your military occupation or a requirement for a specific skill set that you possess) to determine if you will receive an offer.

    If you do get an offer, it will only be on a temporary and transitional basis. If circumstances change, the CAF may terminate your retention at any time.

    If you decide you want to end a period of retention, you must request this change by sending a memo to the DMCA through your chain of command.

Phase 2

Phase 2: From Receipt of Medical Release Decision to Release Date

Phase 2 covers from the time you receive your medical release decision to your release date.

  • You have received a decision message following the DMCA AR/MEL and your Medical Employment Limitations (MELs) were found to breach the Universality of Service requirements.

    You have three possible medical release pathways if your MELs were found to breach the Universality of Service requirements:

    • You may obtain a supported six-month transition period during which you are provided with a plan for transition-related activities. This is called a Non-Complex or a Standard Transition.
    • If your occupation is in critical shortage and a position is available, you may be eligible for period of retention, followed by release. You should note that according to CANFORGEN 021/23 all new or previously approved retention periods will end on 1 April 2025. CANFORGENs are available on the Defence Team Intranet or via the CAF Mobile App.
    • You may be eligible for a release within a period of up to three years according to the criteria of a Complex Transition (Integrated Transition Plan).

    Relevant authorities may modify your release up to and including your effective release date to better describe the most appropriate reason for release (i.e. Item 1: Misconduct, Item 2: Unsatisfactory Service, Item 3: Medical, Item 4: Voluntary, or Item 5: Service Completed).

    You may choose to release before the end of the period indicated in your release message. If you are thinking about this option, consider making the following contacts:

    • Contact your CFHS Nurse Case Manager, local CAF TC staff, and/or orderly room support staff (Base/Wing Administrative Officer) before you make your decision in order to discuss how an early release may affect your benefits.
    • Contact your CAF LTD VRP Case Manager in order to receive timely support, even if you have not yet completed your early release application.

    You will have 30 calendar days before your date of release to concentrate solely on transition activities and release administration. During this period, you are considered unavailable for tasking or employment within your unit.

    Learn more by consulting page 27 of the Operation TRANSITION Directive, which is accessible only on the Defence Team Intranet.

    During your pre-release time, consider doing the following:

    • Visit the nearest CAF TC to learn about your eligibility for benefits and programs such as the ones described below.
    • Discuss your MELs with your CFHS Nurse Case Manger so that you may better plan your transition to civilian life.
    • Contact SISIP FINANCIAL as early as one year before your release to determine if you are eligible for CAF LTD. If you’re medically released, SISIP FINANCIAL will be notified. They will verify your eligibility for LTD and then inform Manulife. Your CAF Nurse Case Manager will provide an LTD claim package to you as well as help you coordinate your medical assessment.
  • You want to plan your transition out of the CAF.

    When planning your transition out of the CAF, you should do the following:

    To find out what benefits and services may be available to you, you should do the following:

    • Contact your Personnel Selection Office or Education Office to obtain information on the services available to you.

    When planning your transition, you should also consider doing the following:

  • You want your benefits in place before you release.

    Review the Release Benefits Administration (RBA) web page to obtain information about the processes and delivery of CAF release benefits. This web page is accessible only on the Defence Team Intranet.

    Consult the Military career transition site to learn about the programs and services that are available to you as you prepare to leave the military.

    Book a consultation with a Transition Advisor to obtain procedural guidance.

  • You live in a Residential Housing Unit (RHU) and want to extend your stay.

    You may apply for an occupancy extension if you are living in a Canadian Forces Housing Agency RHU and think you may need to stay past your release date. This means you will be considered as a Priority 1 applicant if you are eligible to move to an Intended Place of Residence (IPR) or if you are enrolled in an approved career transition or training program.

    Extensions may be authorized based on the availability of housing units and at the discretion of the Housing Services Centre manager.

  • Do you qualify for priority hiring (priority entitlement) in the Federal Public Service?

    Being medically released means you may be eligible for a priority entitlement in the Federal Public Service.

    A priority entitlement is not a guarantee of a job. Rather, this type of entitlement means you have the right to be appointed before all others who do not have a priority entitlement if you meet the position’s essential qualifications and its employment conditions.

    There are two types of priorities: statutory and regulatory. Statutory priority is available to all CAF members whose medical release is due to a service-related injury or illness as determined by VAC. Regulatory priority is provided to those medically releasing for other reasons. It is available only for Regular Force, Reserve Class C, and Reserve Class B (more than 180 days) members.

    In both cases, you start the administrative process of activating your priority entitlement as early as 30 days before your actual release date. However, you will not have priority until the day after your date of release from the CAF.

    Learn more by calling the Director Casualty Support Management (DCSM) at 1-800-883-6094 or writing to DND.Transition.MDN@forces.gc.ca.

    Statutory priority

    To confirm your statutory priority entitlement, apply to VAC using the VAC 1002e – Medical Release Attributable to Service Determination form prior to your planned date of release.

    • You do not have to initiate this process after release. Acting proactively means you can obtain your VAC determination in time for release. This can help if you want to seek priority hiring status for a job in the Federal Public Service.
    • You can apply for statutory priority via your My VAC Account or by downloading the VAC 1002e – Medical Release Attributable to Service Determination from the VAC website.
    • Note that the VAC service standard is 16 weeks from the date when you submit your application to the date you receive the decision about whether your medical release is the result of a service-related injury or disease. You may apply as early as 30 days before your actual release date. However, your situation will not be considered as a statutory priority until you complete your last paid day of service.

    Learn more by calling the Director Casualty Support Management (DCSM) at 1-800-883-6094 or writing to DND.Transition.MDN@forces.gc.ca.

    Regulatory priority

    If your medical release was not due to a service-related injury or illness, call the Director Casualty Support Management (DCSM) at 1-800-883-6094 to learn how to obtain regulatory priority.

    You start the administrative process of activating your regulatory priority entitlement as early as 30 days before your actual release date. However, you will not have priority until the day after your date of release from the CAF.

    Learn more about regulatory priority by calling the Director Casualty Support Management (DCSM) at 1-800-883-6094 or writing to DND.Transition.MDN@forces.gc.ca.

    Additional information

    Contact your CAF LTD VRP Counsellor or apply for VAC Career Transition Services for resume-writing assistance: Career Transition Services - Veterans Affairs Canada 

  • You have your initial release interview with the CAF Release Section.

    Review the Release Statement of Understanding (SOU) that is provided to you by the Release Administrator at the initial interview. The SOU details information such as confirmation of release date and item, cessation of medical and dental treatment through the CAF, and Supplementary Death Benefits for annuitants and non-annuitants.

    If you have questions, you can get answers at your progress interviewbefore your final release interview, which takes place on your last working day.

    Review the Life Skills section of My Transition Guide for more information on the release process and release interviews.

  • You’re preparing for the civilian workforce.

    As you prepare to enter the civilian workforce, consider doing the following:

  • You need assistance with your transition.

    If you need help with your transition, consider applying for SISIP Vocational Rehab (CAF LTD), VAC Rehabilitation Services and Vocational Assistance programs.

  • You’re concerned you will not receive the appropriate medical follow-up care after your release.

    Start by discussing your concerns with your CAF Nurse Case Manager and your health care providers. They will assist you in your transition and can answer your care-related questions.

    You should also request a copy of your medical file before your release.

    Be sure to discuss applying for a provincial or territorial health card with your CAF Nurse Case Manager in order to avoid a gap in your health care coverage.

    In addition, you should contact your nearest CAF TC for transition information and assistance. For example:

    • The Veteran Family Telemedicine Service connects medically released veterans and their families to Maple, a national network of Canadian-licensed doctors, nurse practitioners, and healthcare providers who are accessible online via secure text messaging, audio, or video.
    • The VAC can help you transition to public health care coverage via a provincial or territorial health card.Apply for a card as soon as possible in order to avoid a gap in your health care coverage.
    • If you are receiving health benefits from the CAF for a service-related injury, you may also qualify for coverage for those benefits from VAC after you release from service.
      • If you are within six months of your anticipated release date, you may request a review of your CAF treatment benefits. Such a review will inform you about what portion of your benefits VAC will cover once you release from military service and if you qualify for VAC Disability Entitlement for your service related conditions. Learn more by consulting Manage your CAF healthcare benefits.
      • You may also have access to certain mental health treatments through VAC's Mental Health Benefits. Former members of the CAF, including Reservists on Class A or Class B (less than 180 days) with mental health conditions may receive coverage from the moment VAC receives your disability benefits application. To learn more, consult Mental Health Benefits FAQ.
  • You need to obtain key documents.

    During the release process, you may request a copy of your relevant medical records from your local Health Records section. This will help ensure a positive transition from the military health system to your new civilian physician.

    Upon obtaining a civilian health or dental care provider, you can complete an authorization for disclosure form to have your medical records transferred directly to the new provider.

    Discuss how to receive copies of other key medical documents with your CFHS Nurse Case Manager, CAF TC, or Release Section. It may take several months to receive copies of these documents, so request them as soon as possible.

    • Your personnel file (including your CF 98 forms) is available from your orderly room clerk/support staff.
    • Your medical and dental documents are with your medical officer administrative staff and dental administration staff, respectively.
    • If you are not offered copies, you may request copies of your personnel file, medical file, and dental documents, as well as the CF 98 – Report of Injury, Disease or Illness forms, if applicable. It may take several months to receive copies of your documents, so request them as soon as possible.

    Be aware that your personnel file will be audited following your release. Request another copy after the audit, which generally is completed from two to six months after your release.

  • You need financial support post-release.

    Ensure your financial support post-release by taking the following steps:

    • Learn about your current CAF pension timelines and CAF LTD timelines in order to create a transition budget. Contact a SISIP Advisor for help in setting this budget. Your budget should also reflect the following service standards:
    • The Government of Canada Pension Centre service standards for your initial payment by direct deposit is 45 calendar days after the release date so long as the Centre has received all of your documentation.
    • Your CAF LTD Benefits will commence once Manulife has received your final release information from National Defence Headquarters. This information is sent to Manulife by SISIP Financial approximately four to six weeks following your date of release. Once your final release information has been received, Manulife will contact you to process the approval of your claim. Manulife will calculate your entitlement to CAF LTD benefits retroactively to the day following your date of release.
    • Check what financial benefits are available for you as a releasing member. Then apply
    • Contact SISIP Financial as early as one year before your release date. CAF LTD VRP funding can start up to six months before your release.
    • Contact VAC to find out what VAC benefits are available to still-serving members. VAC may render many eligibility decisions pre-release. As a result, you may obtain some services and benefits immediately upon your release.
    • Check to determine If you qualify for the disability tax credit. For example, you or your supporting family members may qualify for tax credits if you have an impairment.
  • You need health and dental coverage post-release.

    If you are going to receive a pension, annuity, or annual allowance, you may also be eligible for benefits under the Public Service Health Care Plan (PSHCP), provided that you have at least six years of pensionable service. You are also eligible for benefits under the Pensioners' Dental Services Plan (PDSP). For more information, review the Canadian Forces Pension Plan presentation.

    Applying for PSHCP and PDSP

    • Apply according to the province or territory in which you will reside at the time of your release. You should submit your application once you have received your release message.
    • Apply to both the PSHCP and the PDSP within 60 days of your release date. This will ensure your coverage is continuous.
      • Be aware that it can take up to three months for both health and dental coverage to start for new pensioners. Your coverage will be backdated to the day after your release in most cases if your application is received within 60 days of your release date. In the interim, be sure to keep your receipts.
    • If you apply more than 60 days after your release date, your coverage may only begin on:
      • the first day of the fourth month following receipt of your completed PSHCP application, and
      • the first day of the second month following receipt of your completed PDSP application.
    • Veterans and their families who wouldn’t normally qualify for the PSHCP after release may qualify for VAC’s Group Health Insurance.
    • You may apply for the PSHCP through VAC in the following three circumstances:
    • You are a former CAF member who was approved for benefits under the Canadian Armed Forces Long Term Disability on or after 1 April 2006. In addition, you are not otherwise eligible for the Public Service Health Care Plan.
    • You are a former CAF member who has been approved for VAC rehabilitation services due to a service-related illness or injury. In addition, you are not otherwise eligible for the Public Service Health Care Plan.
    • You are a survivor of a CAF Veteran who died on or after 1 April 2006 as the result of a service-related illness or injury. In addition, you are not otherwise eligible for the Public Service Health Care Plan.
    • If you are registered for My VAC Account, you may submit your PSHCP application online. If you aren’t already registered, you may register now.
    • View more FAQs about the PSHCP through Veterans Affairs Canada.
  • You need life insurance post-release.

    If you require life insurance after your release, apply for term coverage under the SISIP FINANCIAL Insurance for Released Members (IRM). You may also convert your optional term insurance into IRM.

  • You have your final release interview with the CAF Release Section.

    Provide the Release Administrator with your mailing address, phone number, and e-mail address during your final interview. This ensures that all of your pay and pension-related documents and payments will be sent to the right place. 

    Contact the Release Benefits Administration (RBA) if you need information about your last CAF pay, payment of CAF Severance Pay (if applicable), and T4/other revenue slips. The RBA’s coordinates are as follows:

    DPSP Release Benefits Administration
    National Defence Headquarters
    101 Colonel By Drive
    Ottawa ON K1A 0K2

    Email: CMP_DPSP_RBA_ABL_DPPS_CPM@forces.gc.ca

    When contacting RBA, be sure to provide the following information:

    • your name and service number,
    • a detailed message, and
    • your contact number.
Phase 3

Phase 3: After Release

Phase 3 covers issues you may face after your release.

  • You need transitional support for yourself and your family.

    To learn about transitional support available for you and your family, do the following:

    • Apply for CAF LTD.
    • Consult the Military Benefits Browser and the VAC Benefits Navigator to obtain information about benefits and services that may be available to you and your family.
    • Consider the Veteran Family Program (VFP) offered by all 32 Military Family Resource Centres (MFRCs) across Canada. For more information, you can watch the VFP video or contact the program via the Family Information Line by calling 1-800-866-4546 or by sending an e-mail to FIL-LIF@cfmws.com. Be aware that an important component of the VFP is the Family Liaison Officer services which provide intervention support for families of members supported by the CAF TC and families of the fallen.
    • Contact the VAC Assistance Service if you have any concerns that are affecting your well-being. You can reach a mental health professional at any time, 24 hours-a-day, 365 days-a-year, by calling 1-800-268-7708 or 1-800-567-5803 (TTY).
  • You may be eligible for a move to an Intended Place of Residence (IPR).

    If you are eligible for an IPR move, review the Canadian Armed Forces Relocation Directive (CAFRD) and watch the Your last CAF move: IRP video for information about the process and related time limits.

    As a rule “only expenses related to the relocation to the IPR that are incurred within two years after the date of release or transfer are eligible for reimbursement.” Chapter 14. Moves to Intended Place of Residence (IPR) - Canada.ca provides information about exceptions.

  • You may qualify for a pension.

    Your pension benefits under section 16 of the CFSA are based on your years of pensionable service, earnings, and the Plan to which you contributed.

    Consult the CAF pension plan website for information on your pension plan and related benefits. You may find additional information, including details about pension indexing and Canada Pension Plan/Quebec Pension Plan, in the CAF pension plan SCAN presentation.

    If you have questions about your pension and its related timelines, you may call the Government of Canada Pension Centre at 1-800-267-0325 (toll free) or at 1-855-255-9935 (TTY).

  • You want to work in the Public Service.

    If you are interested in a Federal Public Service job, get information about priority entitlement. Information about this process is covered in Phase 2.

    Be aware that your military service is considered in the calculation of vacation leave credits for employees of the core public administration. For more information, consult Applying Recognition of Prior Service in the Canadian Forces for Vacation Purposes to the AI, AO and UT Collective Agreements - Canada.ca

  • You need to ensure that appropriate benefits are in place.

    If applicable, contact SISIP Financial to determine your file status and update your address as well as obtain information about your CAF LTD and CAF LTD VRP benefits.

    If you’ve been in contact with VAC, contact them to confirm the start date of your benefits that were approved prior to your release.

    If you’re moving after your release, inform VAC to ensure the transfer of your file to your new location.

    If you have not previously been in contact with VAC and you experience difficulties after your release, it is important that you speak with a VAC representative about your benefits and services applications. You may do this by:

    • calling (toll free) 1-866-522-2122 or 1-833-921-0071 (TDD/TTY), 
    • sending a secure online message using My VAC Account,
    • visiting a Service Canada Centre, or
    • making an in-person appointment with VAC staff at a local Area Office or at a CAF TC.

    You should note that some of your VAC financial benefits are dependent on being part of the Rehabilitation Services and Vocational Assistance Programs. The Rehabilitation Services and Vocational Assistance Programs are available for veterans who have a health problem that is primarily the result of military service and which hinders reintegration into civilian life. Your eligibility may also lead to you receiving additional benefits such as the Public Service Health Care Plan and Income Replacement Benefits in order to allow you to focus on your rehabilitation.

    If you have not already done so, apply for a provincial or territorial health card as soon as possible to avoid a gap in health care coverage.

    If you are a CFSA Pensioner and have applied for health care and dental benefits, check the progress of your application by calling the Government of Canada Pension Centre at 1-800-267-0325 (toll free) or 1-855-255-9935 (TTY).

  • Your needs have changed.

    Pay attention to new or changing needs after your release. For example:

    • Have you developed medical conditions? If so, contact SISIP FINANCIAL or VAC to see if you qualify for other benefits. In addition, ensure your existing coverage is current and still applies to your conditions.
    • Is your VAC Rehabilitation Plan still meeting your needs? If not, contact VAC.

    Make sure you contact your CAF LTD and VAC Case Managers if you face any additional health issues after your release.

    Finally, contact the Royal Canadian Legion for information about the services that may be available for you.

  • A personal event may impact your benefits.

    Pension benefits may be affected by personal events. These events include a change in marital or relationship status, disability, and the death of a pensioner or survivor. When these personal events occur, be sure to update your personal information with the Pension Centre as well as your health and dental benefits provider.

    You will find more information about these personal events according to your specific pension plan:

    In addition, review the webpage Retired member—Canadian Armed Forces pensions.

    Contact VAC if there any changes in your circumstances.

  • Staying current on military and veterans’ matters and participating in other Veterans’ programs.

    Do you wish to stay informed on military and veterans’ matters? Here are seven ways to do so:

  • You’re having issues accessing programs or services and you do not know how to obtain help.

    Contact the Office of the DND/CAF Ombudsman if your concern is about the DND or the CAF.

    Contact the Office of the Veterans Ombudsman if your concern involves VAC.

Key Stakeholders and Resources
  • Key stakeholders

    This is an overview of the key stakeholders involved in the medical release process and their related activities. This is not an exhaustive list. You may obtain contact information by consulting Important Contact Information and other useful contacts.

    Key Stakeholders

    Related Activities

    Base/Wing Personnel Selection Officer
    • Medical Second Career Assistance Network (MedSCAN)
    • Compulsory Occupation Transfer (if applicable)
    • Education Reimbursement
    • Seminars for resume writing, interview techniques, and seeking civilian employment

    Base/Wing Release Section
    • Release benefit information such as the IPR and move benefits
    • Release clearance process administration

    CAF TC / CAF TG
    • Delivery of personalized and standardized casualty support and transition services to CAF members and their families to ensure seamless transition and enhanced well-being. Special attention paid to ill and injured personnel, their families and the families of the deceased.
    • Services include:
      • Casualty Support Administration
      • Administration of:
        • Reserve Force Compensation (RFC)
        • Extension of Class C service
        • Government Employees Compensation Act (GECA)
      • Return to Duty Program
      • Vocational Rehabilitation Program for Serving Members (VRPSM)
      • Transition options while posted to the CAF TG
      • Process for posting members to the CAF TG
      • Military to Civilian Transition (MCT) process and related tools:
        • My Transition Guide
        • Second Career Assistance Network Online
        • Transition Training
        • My Transition App
        • MNET
        • My Skills and Education Translator (MySET)
        • Digital Transition Centre (DTC)
        • Military Transition options
      • Administration of Service Benefits for Ill and Injured Members:
        • Home and vehicle modifications
        • Home assistance
        • Attendant Care
        • Caregiver
        • Spousal Education Upgrade
        • Next of Kin Travel
      • Operational Stress Injury Social Support Program (OSISS)
      • Soldier On

    CFHS Nurse Case Manager
    • Member education about health care, health conditions, MELs, and their potential military career impacts
    • Coordination with members of primary care teams and partners such as CAF TG, VAC, and SISIP to ensure continued access to health services and benefits
    • Provision of information, planning, and coordination for:
      • medical information and treatment
      • determination of complexity for a potential transition
      • post-release professional services (e.g. civilian physicians, dentists, and medical specialists)
      • community support and disease related organizations
      • post-release medication transfer
      • post-release medical record access
      • Canada Pension Plan (CPP) and Service Canada access
      • Disability Tax Credit access
      • SISIP LTD access
    • Collaboration with VAC case management in the development of an integrated transition care plan and the provision of discharge summary reports

    CFMWS
    • Family Information Line
    • CFOne program
    • Administration of FLO service (i.e. intervention support for military families supported by the Transition Centre as well as families of the fallen)
    • Administration of the Veteran Family Program (VFP) and provision of access to the Veterans Family Coordinator through MFRCs which:
      • provide support services for medically releasing members and their families;
      • support members and their families through transition to civilian life up to and post-release;
      • provide information and referral support to ease community integration;
      • administer transition programs such as workshops, groups, education and awareness; and
      • provide intervention support via social work services, programming, and sessions.
    • Veteran Family Telemedicine Service. This is a pilot project until March 2025. It provides access to virtual care service to medically released CAF veterans and their families for one year.

    DMCA*

    *Available only on the Defence Team Intranet
    • Administration of the AR/MEL process, including:
      • conducting an AR if applicable,
      • coordinating the AR process on behalf of the CAF,
      • advising about the AR process,
      • consulting the D Law Mil Pers as required, and
      • ensuring that an AR conducted by the DMCA is consistent with CAF policies and procedures.

    D Med Pol
    • Assignment of permanent MELs
    • Consultation with D Law Mil Pers, as required
    • Transfer of form DND 4345-E, Medical Employment Limitations For Administrative Review (AR/MEL) directly to a CAF member’s commanding officer if an illness or injury that has led to a MEL does not breach the principle of Universality of Service
    • Transfer of form DND 4345-E involving any other medical employment limitation issue to DMCA
    • Provision of medical advice to the AR analyst and the approving authority

    Government of Canada Pension Centre – CAF Pensions
    • Provision of pension related information involving CAF members as well as Health care (PSHCP) and dental (PDSP) benefits

    RBA*

    *Available only on the Defence Team Intranet
    • Oversight of all CAF release sections
    • Provision of advice and clarification of release policies
    • Performance of audit functions
    • Responsibility for the payment of release benefits to all CAF members (Regular Force and Reserve Force)
    • Designated orderly room and administrative support section for all released members.

    SISIP Financial Services
    • Administration of transition financial services available for CAF members, including:
      • pre-release financial counselling (i.e. cash-flow management, debt management), and
      • financial planning advice (i.e. VAC lump sum awards, severance payments, pension transfer values/deferred annuity, etc.)
    • Insurance:
      • CAF LTD Insurance*
      • CAF LTD VRP*
      • Insurance for Released Members (IRM)
      • Term 100 Life Insurance
      • Critical Illness Insurance
      • Travel Insurance

    *Managed by Manulife.

    VAC
    • Provision of support upon transition
    • Determination of service attribution for the purposes of benefits eligibility and priority hiring in the federal public service 
    • VAC Disability Award
    • Administration of the VAC transition interview
    • VAC Rehabilitation Program
    • Provision of financial support for health care benefits and services targeting veterans who are entitled to disability benefits or who are eligible for VAC’s Mental Health Benefits
  • Resources and links
Acronyms

AR – Administrative Review

AR/MEL – Administrative Review of Medical Employment Limitations

CAF – Canadian Armed Forces

CAF LTD – Canadian Armed Forces Long Term Disability

CAF LTD VRP – Canadian Armed Forces Long Term Disability Vocational Rehabilitation Program

CAF TC – Canadian Armed Forces Transition Centre

CAF TG – Canadian Armed Forces Transition Group

CAF VRPSM – Canadian Armed Forces Vocational Rehabilitation Program for Serving Members

CAFRD – Canadian Armed Forces Relocation Directive

CF Mil Pers Instr – Canadian Forces Military Personnel Instructions

CFHS – Canadian Forces Health Services

CFMWS – Canadian Forces Morale and Welfare Services

CFSA – Canadian Forces Superannuation Act

CCMS – Conflict and Complaint Management Services

D Med Pol – Director Medical Policy

DAOD – Defence Administrative Orders and Directives

DCSM – Director Casualty Support Management

DMCA – Director Military Careers Administration

DND – Department of National Defence

IPR – Intended Place of Residence

IRM – Insurance for Released Members

ITP – Integrated Transition Plan

MEL – Medical Employment Limitations

MFRC – Military Family Resource Centre

MNET – Military Occupational Structure Identification Code [(MOSID)/National Occupation Code (NOC) Equivalency Tool]

MySET – My Skills & Education Translator

OSISS – Operational Stress Injury Social Support

OTSSC – Operational and Trauma Stress Support Centre

PCat – Permanent Medical Category

PDSP – Pensioners’ Dental Services Plan

PSHCP – Public Service Health Care Plan

RBA – Release Benefits Administration

RHU – Residential Housing Unit

RTD – Return to Duty

SCAN – Second Career Assistance Network

SISIP – Service Income Security Insurance Plan

SOU – Statement of Understanding

TCat – Temporary Medical Category

VAC – Veterans Affairs Canada

VFP – Veteran Family Program

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