What will dictate the clearance process for patients being discharged from your MTF?

• A. MPF policy
• B. Air Force policy
• C. Local policy
• D. DOD policy

Answer: (C)

Discharge clearance is defined by the local policy of the medical treatment facility. While higher-level DoD and Air Force directives provide the overarching requirements for patient care and discharge processes, the day-to-day steps, responsibilities, forms, and handoffs are implemented at the facility level. Local policy lays out exactly who signs off on a discharge, what documentation is needed, how records are transferred, and how follow-up care and medications are arranged, ensuring the process fits the specific clinic’s workflow, resources, and installation requirements. This balance keeps compliance with broader policies while making the discharge process practical and actionable for staff and patients.