DA Form 8005-6: Outpatient Medical Records Guide – DA Form 8005-6 serves as the official white Outpatient Medical Record (OMR) folder used by the U.S. Army for organizing and maintaining outpatient treatment documentation. This form is a key component of Army medical record administration under AR 40-66, Medical Record Administration and Healthcare Documentation.
Military personnel, family members, and veterans in the USA frequently search for information on this form for record access, transfers, or benefits claims. This guide covers everything you need to know.
What Is DA Form 8005-6?
DA Form 8005-6 is a standardized folder (jacket) designed specifically for Outpatient Medical Records (OMR). It is one of several color-coded DA Form 8005-series folders:
- DA Form 8005-5 — Light Blue
- DA Form 8005-6 — White (standard for many outpatient records)
- Other variants (e.g., 8005-7 Brown) for specific uses.
These folders organize paper-based outpatient documentation, including clinic visits, consultations, progress notes (such as SF 600), lab results, and other non-inpatient care records. While electronic systems like AHLTA or modern MHS GENESIS have reduced reliance on paper, these folders remain important for legacy records, certain facilities, and transitions.
Purpose of the Outpatient Medical Record Folder
The primary purpose of the DA Form 8005-6 jacket is to provide a secure, standardized physical container for Outpatient Treatment Records (OTR). It ensures:
- Proper filing and retrieval using terminal digit or Social Security Number + Family Member Prefix systems.
- Protection of sensitive Protected Health Information (PHI) under HIPAA and Privacy Act standards.
- Easy transfer between military treatment facilities (MTFs) during PCS moves, deployments, or separations.
- Support for continuity of care, medical readiness, and VA benefits claims.
Outpatient records document care that does not involve overnight hospital admission, such as routine appointments, sick call, specialty consultations, and preventive services.
How to Use and Prepare DA Form 8005-6?
According to AR 40-66:
- Preparation — Include patient identifying information on the folder (name, SSN/FMP, DOB, etc.).
- Contents — File authorized documents like SF 600 (Chronological Record of Medical Care), consultation sheets, lab reports, and other approved forms. Specific guidance exists for what belongs in OTR vs. other record types.
- Filing System — Use terminal digit filing for efficient storage in medical records departments.
Medical records staff at Army hospitals and clinics typically handle preparation, updates, and transfers. Authorized personnel make entries; only approved forms/documents are filed.
Who Needs DA Form 8005-6 and Outpatient Records?
- Active Duty Soldiers
- Army National Guard and Reserve members
- Family members (dependents) receiving care at MTFs
- Retirees and veterans transitioning records to the VA or civilian providers
These records are critical for PCS moves, retirement/ETS, VA disability claims, and continuity of care when seeing civilian doctors.
How to Request or Access Your Outpatient Medical Records?
- While serving — Contact the Patient Administration Division or Medical Records section at your local MTF.
- After separation — Submit DD Form 2870 (Authorization for Disclosure of Medical/Dental Information) to the relevant facility or records center.
- For veterans — Records often transfer to the National Personnel Records Center (NPRC) or VA. Use appropriate DD Form 877 or VA channels for requests.
- Transfers — Use DD Form 2138 for Request for Transfer of Outpatient Records between facilities.
Note: Processing times vary; plan ahead for moves or claims. Many facilities now provide digital copies via secure portals.
Download DA Form 8005-6
Official DA Form 8005-6 PDF is available through Army Publishing Directorate (APD) or authorized military forms portals.
Always use the most current version from official sources like armypubs.army.mil to ensure compliance.
Key Regulations and Best Practices (AR 40-66)
- Follow strict charge-out and tracking procedures to prevent loss of records.
- Maintain confidentiality and proper disposition schedules.
- Electronic documentation may supplement or replace paper in many cases, but physical jackets like DA 8005-6 support hybrid record environments.
For the full regulation, refer to the latest AR 40-66 from official Army channels.
Common Questions About DA Form 8005-6
Is it still used in 2026?
Yes, particularly for legacy records and specific administrative needs, even as the Military Health System transitions to fully electronic records.
Difference from inpatient records?
Outpatient (OTR/OMR) covers ambulatory care; inpatient uses different folders and documentation standards.
How long are records kept?
Retention varies by status (active, separated, etc.). Facilities typically hold outpatient records for set periods before archiving or transferring.
Can I get copies for VA claims?
Yes — use proper authorization forms. Many veterans request complete Service Treatment Records (STR), which include outpatient documentation.
Stay Compliant and Informed
Proper management of DA Form 8005-6 Outpatient Medical Records supports mission readiness, personal health, and post-service benefits. For personalized assistance, contact your nearest Army Medical Treatment Facility’s Patient Administration or Medical Records department.
This article is for informational purposes. Always verify with official Army or DoD sources for the latest guidance.
Keywords: DA Form 8005-6, Outpatient Medical Records, Army OMR, DA 8005-6 PDF, AR 40-66, military medical records, Army outpatient treatment record.