Pentagon to replace ANAM with next-gen cognitive test for TBI detection, readiness

Published Jul 22, 07:03 PM UTC

The U.S. Defense Department is updating its Cognitive Monitoring Program by transitioning from the Automated Neuropsychological Assessment Metrics (ANAM) to a new, improved capability. The change, mandated by a June 9 Pentagon memorandum signed by Under Secretary of War for Personnel and Readiness Anthony Tata, aims to meet increased operational demands and reflect advances in neurocognitive science. The new enterprise-wide tool will provide timely, actionable data for commanders and medical providers to detect cognitive changes early, assess traumatic brain injuries (TBIs), and sustain military readiness. ANAM, a 20-30 minute computerized test developed in 1984, was mandated by Congress in 2008 for pre-deployment baseline testing and post-injury assessment amid rising TBI cases from Iraq and Afghanistan conflicts. Over 500,000 service members sustained a TBI from 2000 to 2025. The phased implementation includes a one-year exception to previous policy to replace ANAM incrementally for baselining, monitoring, pre-deployment screening, and clinical evaluations.