Pentagon to replace ANAM with next-gen cognitive test, effective immediately

Published Jul 22, 07:03 PM UTC

The U.S. Defense Department is updating its Cognitive Monitoring Program, transitioning from the Automated Neuropsychological Assessment Metrics (ANAM) to an improved, enterprise-wide capability to detect cognitive changes early. The change, effective immediately via a June 9 Pentagon memorandum signed by Under Secretary Anthony Tata, aims to meet increased operational demands and reflect matured science. ANAM, a 20-30 minute computerized test developed in 1984 and mandated by Congress in 2008, evaluates service members' neurocognitive baselines and traumatic brain injuries (TBIs). TBIs have affected over 500,000 service members from 2000-2025, with mild cases allowing return to duty within 10-14 days. The new tool will incrementally replace ANAM for baselining, pre-deployment screening, clinical evaluations, and post-deployment assessment, providing timely data for commanders and medical providers to sustain military readiness.