Medical Conditions Normally Not Waiverable

Medical Issues Not Normally Waivered

August 13th, 2008

Many people who are considering the United States Navy as an option wonder if there may be some mental or physical condition from their past which may preclude them from serving. This post is the first of a two part series which will talk about medical conditions and possibly answer your “would I make it with” questions. Today I will list the medical issues/conditions which will not be considered for a waiver.

For those issues with time conditions they are listed as such – like a severe head injury has a five year waiting period, the waiting period is in place to reduce the possibility there were no long term effects from the injury. Conditions that become aggravated while serving on active duty could in the long run be considered “service connected” which in turn could lead to future disability benefits. By restricting some known medical issues, such as the ones listed below, will ultimately save the tax payers money.

Generally the Navy will not waive the following conditions (conditions listed in COMNAVCRUITCOMINST 1130.8H);

  • Acquired Immune Deficiency Syndrome (AIDS), AIDS Related Complex (ARC), HIV Antibody, or history of any of the above.
  • Single kidney – regardless of cause.
  • Loss of an arm or leg.
  • Seizure disorder with seizure and/or medication within five years.
  • History of Cancer with treatment within five years (except basal cell carcinoma).
  • Diabetes Mellitus Type I or Type II.
  • Loss of one eye.
  • History of Cataract surgery.
  • History of any Keratoconus (protrusion of the cornea).
  • History of Glaucoma.
  • Refractive Surgery: Radial Keratotomy.
  • History of Aphakia (lens replacement of the eye).
  • Severe Allergic reaction (Anaphylaxis) to insects or food.
  • Cirrhosis.
  • Corneal transplant history.
  • Crohn’s Disease and Ulcerative Colitis (Intestinal ulcers).
  • Severe deformities of the mouth, throat, or nose that interfere with speech or mastication of ordinary food.
  • Severe Scoliosis (spine curvature) or Kyphosis (“hunchback”).
  • History of eating disorders: Anorexia Nervosa and Bulimia.
  • Headaches, recurrent, severe, which require prescription medication or interfere with daily activity.
  • Hepatitis, chronic: Hepatitis B or Hepatitis C carrier.
  • Malignant Hyperthermia/Hyperpyrexia (adverse reaction to anesthesia).
  • Multiple Sclerosis (nerve disease involving muscle weakness and uncoordination) and Muscular Dystrophy (progressive atrophy/wasting of the muscles).
  • Severe orthopedic injuries that result in functional limitations secondary to residual muscle weakness, paralysis, or marked decreased range of motion.
  • Otitis Media (middle ear infection/inflammation), chronic or currently active.
  • Pes Cavus (abnormally high arches of the feet with increased extension of the toes), severe, symptomatic (other than routine orthotic use).
  • Pneumonectomy, removal of entire lung.
  • Pregnancy (except for prior service processing for affiliation).
  • Prosthetic replacement of joints.
  • Psychiatric Conditions: Schizophrenia; Major Depression, recurrent; Bipolar Disorder; Panic disorders; Sexual disorders; and Personality disorders, severe.
  • History of Retinal disease or detachment.
  • Undescended testicle unless surgically removed or confirmed to be congenital absence.
  • Chronic skin disorders. Atopic dermatitis, Eczema, Psoriasis.
  • Spinal Fusion, greater than two vertebral spaces, congenital or surgical involving any number of vertebrae, by any method.
  • History of drug and/or alcohol abuse or diagnosed substance dependence.
  • History of Neurofibromatosis.
  • Congenital (birth) heart defects that have not been repaired.
  • History of intestinal bypass or stomach stapling.
  • Severe head injury within the past five years.
  • Latex allergy.
  • liver function study. Dosage strength of steroids used must also be documented. Use of steroids longer that two months before enlistment application is not medically disqualifying; however, any indication of high steroid dosage and/or chronic use must have internal medicine consultation to evaluate late or residual steroid effects.
  • Anabolic Steroid Use. Any person admitting steroid use within the previous two months is not enlistment eligible. The Chief Medical Officer at the Military Entrance Processing Station (MEPS) may consider waivers on an individual basis after attaining internal medicine consultation or appropriate history. If a waiver is recommended, request must be forwarded to Navy Recruiting Command Medical. Send the following test results for waiver consideration:
  1. microscopic urinalysis and
  2. liver function study. Dosage strength of steroids used must also be documented. Use of steroids longer that two months before enlistment application is not medically disqualifying; however, any indication of high steroid dosage and/or chronic use must have internal medicine consultation to evaluate late or residual steroid effects.

A note to everyone: The advice and prognostications I deliver in the comments and via email are based on my experiences, and only take into account the information you provide. I do not have the benefit of the “whole person.” So, please see a Recruiter, no matter what, and have your documentation sent to MEPS for a definitive review. I am not answering for the Navy! Although rare, I have been known to be wrrree, wrea, wrong :)

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75 Comments »

  • So these conditions are normally not waiverable, but are they ever waivered?

    These conditions can never be considered for a waiver? I had surgical spinal fusion, but I am completely fine now.

    Comment by Greg — December 16, 2008 @ 2:44 pm

  • The list is meant to be a guide based on MEPS and Navy instructions. I suggest you submit your medical records thru your local Recruiter to the MEPS for review, worst they can say is no.

    Comment by NCCM(ret) — December 16, 2008 @ 2:53 pm

  • i have had two ACL reconstructions on the same knee when i was younger. i am fully recovered and stayed very active playing basketball and running track througout my high school years, and also playing basketball a year in college. would i need a medical waiver for this? if so, will i be considered for one?

    Comment by bree — July 24, 2009 @ 7:57 pm

  • Bree,

    Based on my experience and what you have told me you should not have a problem. You have been asymptomatic for over a year and have also been very active. Get a couple of letters from coaches explaining your knee has been no problem – and of course have copies of all pertinent medical records. If the MEPS doctor sends it for a waiver (most likely will, they don’t stick their neck out much) you should have an answer back pretty quickly (within a week or so).

    Comment by NCCM(ret) — July 24, 2009 @ 8:13 pm

  • i have had asthma since i was a baby and have had back surgery two years ago but not fused. the back surgery does not affect me. do you think that i could make it?

    Comment by garrett — September 3, 2009 @ 9:13 pm

  • Normally, asthma symptoms after the age of 12 is disqualifying and a waiver will not be approved.

    Comment by NCCM(ret) — September 3, 2009 @ 9:27 pm

  • I was born with atrial septal defect. A fairly common congenital heart defect in which an opening fails to close during childhood. It usually closes in most people by the age of 4 or 5 and I found out that now the condition doesn’t even require surgery. I had surgery to close the hole when I was 9 (I’m now 23), and have never had any problems with it. I run several miles a week, work out and lift weights. My cardiologist wrote a letter stating how my exams and test all returned normal, he also stated that the surgery repaired my heart to normal with no problems. I’m currently waiting on my medical records to arrive in the mail.

    Do you think I’ll be able to get a waiver? I know heart surgeries sound pretty scary, but mine has been repaired and I do have a recommendation from my doctor. Is there anything else I should present to my recruiter?

    Comment by TJP — September 5, 2009 @ 12:23 pm

  • TJP,
    Submit all your medical records and letters from doctors and coaches – I think you have a pretty good chance.

    Let us know how it goes so as other can learn from your experience.

    Comment by NCCM(ret) — September 5, 2009 @ 1:34 pm

  • Thank you NCCM!

    I just got my medical records in the mail today and will give them to my recruiter on Tuesday. He told me it was going to be an extensive process for getting the waiver, and that I may even need to see an outside doctor? My medical records have goo things to say in terms of my overall prognosis. Does it take a long time to get a waiver (over 3 months)? My recruiter told me it would probably be 6 months to a year before I go to boot camp, and I was hoping to expedite the process so I could get in as soon as possible. I really want to join. :)

    Comment by TJP — September 5, 2009 @ 7:24 pm

  • TJP,

    Your Recruiter telling you it may take 6 months to get to RTC is a good thing, he feels somewhat confident you will pass medical :)

    6 months to me seems somewhat optimistic to me though – currently the wait, depending on the job (rating), can be up to a year.

    Good luck (thank you for visiting my site) and keep us informed!! :)

    Comment by NCCM(ret) — September 5, 2009 @ 8:40 pm

  • Hi, My son wants to join the naval music program (he’s a talented, musician, vocals, instruments, songwriting, recording training, etc) but he has a problem with a knee, he’s had 2 surgeries and is now building the leg strength back up and wearing a brace when working, he had asthma as a child but has not been bothered with symptoms since the age of 10, do you think that or his knee issue would stop him from being accepted ?
    Thank you

    Comment by ltm — September 10, 2009 @ 6:23 pm

  • one more question.. can you get through boot camp or get accepted if a knee issue keeps you from running? If you want to join the navy for the music program is it as important for your physical condition to be top? Thank you again :)

    Comment by ltm — September 10, 2009 @ 6:30 pm

  • ltm,

    If your son is experiencing knee problems he will not pass the MEPS physical. The program a person is joining for has no impact.

    Comment by NCCM(ret) — September 10, 2009 @ 10:56 pm

  • So I sent my medical records to MEPS and they denied it (which was expected by my recruiter) BUT they sent it to BUMED. I had to feel out some additional paperwork and my recruiter sent it back to BUMED. Now it’s a waiting game to see what they say. Either they’ll deny me flat, or they’ll allow me to take a physical (which is what my recruiter thinks will happen). Any thoughts on this process? I’m so new to all of this, I’m just kind of anxiously awaiting what will happen. My recruiter said I’m in a good position because I’m a female who has finished college and I would like to go into a field that difficult for the Navy to fill: linguistics. Do you think this will help at all?

    Comment by TJP — September 14, 2009 @ 11:42 pm

  • TJP,

    Things seem to be tracking as expected :)

    One thing you can correct your Recruiter on: Navy Recruiting does not use BUMED to make medical eligibility recommendations. Navy Recruiting Command has a doctor and staff (CNRC 00M) located at headquarters in Millington, Tn that will review your documentation and make the final recommendation to the Admiral for approval or disapproval.

    In your case, before the recommendation can be made by 00M; 00M must direct MEPS (if 00M determines a waiver may be possible) to provide you with a physical (they may also direct MEPS to send you to an outside specialist for any additional testing).

    So, to recap;

    1. MEPS disqualified you based on medical record review.

    2. MEPS/Navy Liaison recommended that 00M review your medical records to over-ride MEPS to force a physical (good chance of this happening, but 00M can disapprove the request at this point).

    3. If 00M directs the physical then a date for the physical will be scheduled along with any outside consultations which may be required (you need to be prepared to make more than one visit to MEPS depending on consultation requirements).

    4. Once the final results of the physical and consultations are complete (including blood work), those results will be sent to 00M for review. Slim chance the review could reveal additional testing/consultations could be required, but I doubt it. Just preparing you in case.

    5. 00M will review and make recommendation to the Admiral (usually within 3-5 days depending on back load).

    6. You get a call from your Recruiter with the results.

    Hope this makes the medical waiver process more clear!

    Comment by NCCM(ret) — September 15, 2009 @ 7:53 am

  • My friend (who is trying for the navy seals) had a retinal detachment 6 years ago with reattchment surgery followed by laser surgery to ensure a stronger reattchment. His surgeon told him that his affected retina is held in place better than a normal retina. Now, all of his info has been sent to MEPS and his recruiter just gave him a heads up that he has heard through the grapevine that he may be medically disqualified because of the detachment (he hasn’t received official word yet though). His prognosis is good and he is considered a candidate for lasik and/or PRK. His vision is also correctable to 20/20.

    If he is disqualified, can he get a waiver for it? Should he get a letter from the surgeon stating that his retina is held in place better than a normal one?

    Also, would this condition with a letter from the surgeon disqualify him from other service branches, specifically the marines?

    Comment by Sara — September 19, 2009 @ 4:48 pm

  • It has been my experience that a history of detached retina, even if repaired, is permanently disqualifying and a waiver would not normally be recommended or approved. I can only speak of my experience with the Navy, but believe this would be true for all services.

    Comment by NCCM(ret) — September 19, 2009 @ 6:09 pm

  • My fiance is planning to join the navy, but she has a mild latex allergy. Prolonged exposure to latex gives her a slight rash, and latex powder makes her cough. In fact we think she may have lost some of her sensitivity to it because recent exposures have yielded no symptoms.

    How severe does a latex allergy have to be before it makes a difference?

    Comment by Ian — September 25, 2009 @ 3:01 am

  • Ian, sorry for the delay in answering. For once, I am stumped. I personally have never run across anyone with a “mild” allergy for latex. All my experiences have to do with folks who have more immediate and profound symptoms, all of whom were permanently disqualified with no waiver recommended.

    Let me know how this turns out.

    Comment by NCCM(ret) — September 26, 2009 @ 3:19 pm

  • i had purforated ulcer surgery more than 3 years ago i am perfecly fine and in great shape i played for two more years after my surgery and no problems not once, my perfurated ulcer was caused by motrin not stress…so my question is will i get disqualified because of this? i have turned all my medical records and i got my doctor to write a letter saying i am perfectly fine. My recruiter sent all this info up to meps on sept 18, 09. i have still not heard back. he said he was going to re fax them back up, he says that i should be able to get in fine. do you think i just need to wait longer? i know the navy is overmanned at the moment could that be a reason at all? i just hope this doesn’t hold me back because i want to serve so bad, well thanks for the help.

    Comment by Tom H — October 1, 2009 @ 12:23 am

  • Tom H,
    Personally, I have not seen a case where stomach or intestinal surgery has been approved. That being said, you should have received a response from your document medical review within 5 working days of their submittal with either a final judgment or a request for additional documentation.

    Comment by NCCM(ret) — October 1, 2009 @ 9:51 am

  • NCCM,

    I just wanted to let you know I’m going to MEPS tomorrow to have a physical and take the ASVAB. 00M requested that I have a physical last week, and I got a call from my recruiter on Thursday telling me to get ready for the upcoming Monday (it all seemed to happen so quickly)!

    Are you required to sign anything at MEPS? I really wanted to be sure I got something in writing stating that my student loans could be repaid, and I didn’t know if my recruiter draws up that contract, or if it’s done at MEPS? Is there anything else you wish you had known before going to MEPS?

    TJP

    Comment by TJP — October 4, 2009 @ 8:50 pm

  • Also, should I bring my medical records to MEPS as well? My recruiter never mentioned this?

    Comment by TJP — October 4, 2009 @ 8:55 pm

  • Info on student loan repayment

    You should not need additional documents beyond what you have already submitted. If you have documents that you haven’t submitted then make sure your Recruiter has them to add to your record at MEPS.

    You won’t be joining during this visit if the physical was requested by 00M – 00M will need the completed physical (blood work and all other tests included) before they can make a final waiver recommendation. Here is the process – http://www.navycs.com/blogs/2009/09/17/navy-recruiting-medical-waiver-process

    Good luck!

    Comment by NCCM(ret) — October 4, 2009 @ 9:59 pm

  • Hi NCCM,

    I just wanted to let you know that everything at MEPS went well (although I must say the attitudes of the MEPS employees were not very nice). Anyway, I also wanted to let you know I took the ASVAB and scored a 95 on it! Initially, I wanted to go in as a legalman. My recruiter told me that might not be feasible, or that I would be waiting for the job for a while and suggested I become a cryptologic technician. I took the DLAB though and completely bombed the test (maybe it was because I was already tired from the physical and wasn’t expecting the test, maybe it was because the test was just too difficult for me–I don’t know). I was told there was a very, very good chance my waiver for my heart surgery would be approved, though. Now I have to focus on choosing a job in the Navy. My recruiter suggests: Air Traffic Controller, Intelligence Specialist, and Legalman (if available). Do you have any info on just what these jobs entail?

    Thank you again for all of your help!

    Comment by TJP — October 7, 2009 @ 6:44 am

  • Hi NCCM,

    I’m still waiting to hear if I’ve received the waiver. It’s only been 2 weeks but it feels like months…!!

    Comment by TJP — October 19, 2009 @ 8:40 am

  • Hi NCCM,

    I just wanted to let you know that I got the waiver!!! I have to go back down to MEPS to select my job. My recruiter is pushing me toward Nuke because of my asvab score, but I’m still unsure if that’s the route I want to take. I just wanted to say thank you for all of the advice you’ve given here and on this website. It really helped me make it through this process.

    Thanks again!

    TJP

    Comment by TJP — October 29, 2009 @ 10:56 am

  • TJP,
    Congrats!!

    Both my older sons joined in the Navy Nuke program :)

    Comment by NCCM(ret) — October 29, 2009 @ 12:38 pm

  • Hi NCCM,

    Guess what! I went back down to MEPS to choose my job and they told me I scored a 128 on the DLAB! They said they were looking at the wrong scores, and that the 64 was the CS score for the Navy test. I can’t believe I passed the DLAB. I could’ve been a CTI but they said they didn’t need women for that job right now. They assigned me the CTN (cryptologic technician networks) job, but my recruiter said he would let me know if another job opened up. I really wanted Air Traffic Control or Intelligence Specialist. We’ll see what happens. I am officially a DEPper though! I have a lot to learn now.

    TJP

    Comment by TJP — November 6, 2009 @ 2:22 pm

  • Congratulations TJP!!! Love it when the process works :)

    Comment by NCCM(ret) — November 6, 2009 @ 3:21 pm

  • I broke my forearm on Feb.3,2008. Was told that I could not join because because of the plate surgically implanted to hold the break together to heal. Called out of state to have all my records forwarded to the recruiter, and he says they won’t even consider me. The surgeon (who happens to me a member of the “Society of Military Orthopaedic Surgery”) believes that my arm in no way would prohibit me from performing my duties in the navy, yet the recruiter says I won’t even be considered. How do you get a waiver if the recruiter won’t even consider you. He said I was a very good candidate (ha said I did very well on the pre-test) Then the subject of my arm came up.

    Comment by Gregory — November 9, 2009 @ 7:32 pm

  • Hi NCCM
    My boyfriend and I have been talking with recruiters, doctors on base, and researching but we still dont have a clear answer. Hes had high blood pressure since he was 12 (not hereditary) and has been on medication within the past year. His high blood pressure seems to be due to his weight, he’s 5′9 235lbs. In basic training hes expected to lose the weight which causes his blood pressure to decrease possibly meaning medication use would be discontinued. He wants to join the navy as soon as possible but is afraid of disqualification. I reccomended that he do ROTC next semester, stop his medication and lose the weight first. Hes already started the processes and is waiting to hear back from the recruiter on his MEPS date. Should he wait? Will he be denied even with a waiver from his own doctor? Will MEPS give him a waiver?
    Thanks!

    Comment by JBC — November 10, 2009 @ 11:02 am

  • Having high blood pressure and being on medication for it will be disqualifying. His weight and BP must be under control without the use of medication. I strongly suggest he follow a doctors advice on how to lose weight, and never stop medication because we feel like it, that could be dangerous.

    Comment by NCCM(ret) — November 10, 2009 @ 11:36 am

  • Gregory,
    Your recruiter should submit your documents for a medical review (if this is your only issue; if there are other factors which may be holding you back then he is making the right choice, ie. ASVAB score, education, height/weight, etc.)

    Comment by NCCM(ret) — November 10, 2009 @ 11:40 am

  • hey, I got stung by a bee when I was 6 years old, had a reaction and they decided I could be allergic to bees and gave me an epi pen. I never had to use it even when I was stung again…havent had another epi pen in years., but I am sure it is on my medical records. Does this DQ me auto? How could an allergy to bees be seen as service related anyway? Damn that sucks if I am,,a damn bee sting when I was a little boy could stop me from serving my country??? Dang!!! Thanks

    Marc

    Comment by marc — December 5, 2009 @ 6:25 pm

  • Marc,

    A bee string allergy would be disqualifying. If you have current medical documentation/tests that dispute the earlier finding, then contact your local Recruiter and have the Recruiter submit your medical records for review.

    Comment by NCCM(ret) — December 7, 2009 @ 7:48 am

  • very glad to have found this site! a couple questions: I am currently training with hopes of enslisting under a SEAL challenge contract in the future. however, I underwent ACL/lateral meniscus reconstruction/repair a little over 4 years ago. my orthopedic surgeon and doctor have both cleared me completely. in addition, in February 2009, i broke my arm–snapped my Left humerus clean in half. now I have a 10-inch titanium plate in my arm with 5 screws. i’m 100% on range of motion and am successfully developing a significantly greater level of strength than i had prior to the injury. again, orthopedic surgeon and doctor have cleared me completely. considering my retained hardware and also the absence of any apparent problems whatsoever, should i be concerned about possible DQ from service–the Teams, in particular? also, there is the option of having the hardware surgically removed and rehabbing the bone and associated muscles…could that possibly help my chances, or would more surgery be arbitarily frowned upon? my latest PST numbers and ASVAB score are highly competitive, and my pre-training will not be over until March 2010. does that satisfy the waiting period, or will my particular case preclude me from any such leniency based on waiting period? any and all guidance would be appreciated! thanks much.

    Comment by wbluedoor — December 13, 2009 @ 4:52 am

  • WBluedoor,

    Your ACL repair should not be an issue as plenty of time has passed and your knee appears to have been asymptomatic during that time. Your arm is a different story; hardware can be complicated. I DO NOT recommend having the hardware removed, but what I do recommend you do is have your local Recruiter submit your medical records for review by the MEPS. A positive is the fact, according to your description, that the plate nor screws are supporting a joint. As far as qualifying for Special Warfare Operator, I think if you make it past the MEPS and are otherwise qualified, the previous ACL and arm surgery should not preclude you.

    Comment by NCCM(ret) — December 13, 2009 @ 9:15 am

  • Would a Hep B carrier automatically be disqualified…Theoretically, they shouldn’t; afterall, I assume that most people in the Navy have been given the Hep B vaccine, right?

    Comment by Dsn F — December 30, 2009 @ 2:21 pm

  • Hep B carriers are disqualified. I understand your vaccination argument, but the Navy visits many places where people may not be up to date with their shots.

    Also, as with any information I put out in this forum, please verify it with your local Recruiters – have them submit your medical documentation to the MEPS for review and an ultimate approval or disapproval because each persons circumstance will vary depending on actual diagnosis/prognosis.

    Comment by NCCM(ret) — December 31, 2009 @ 3:08 pm

  • I am a senior and plan to wrap up high school in June. I am planning on joining the military around 19yrs of age because of MOS requirements. However, I have minor spondylosis of the lower back. I know that I’ll be needing a waiver… I have a friend who joined and got a waiver for lymes disease with relative ease. Would a waiver for minor spondylosis be possible?

    Thanks very much! Sorry if this question was already posted… I posted a similar comment earlier but it disappeared.

    Comment by zay — January 5, 2010 @ 10:58 pm

  • Zay,
    Sorry for the time it has taken me to reply.

    I would think that any degenerative disease, such as spondylosis, would be disqualifying. I doubt a waiver would be granted, but I do suggest you have the recruiter submit your medical records for review to the MEPS because I am unaware of all the scenarios your issue may present.

    Comment by NCCM(ret) — January 9, 2010 @ 1:23 pm

  • I am a 29 year old female with a degree from Purdue University. I am meeting with a recruiter Monday about enlisting. I had ACL surgery in 1998 AFTER I received a scholarship to play collegiate softball. I had reconstructive surgery then therapy at Purdue to get on the field. The Purdue doctors cleared me for play fall of my freshman year after 9 months of therapy, and I played four competitive years there with no problems. SInce then I have been an active runner and weight lifter, having no problems. What are the chances I will pass MEPS (I still have the screws in)? What documentation to I need to bring the recruiter? I’d like to go to Basic as soon as possible.

    Sincerely,
    MED

    Comment by MED — January 10, 2010 @ 12:10 am

  • MED,
    Your surgery was well over the minimum 1 year waiting time, and you have been asymptomatic all the while playing competitive sports. Bring all the medical documentation (your recruiter could request the documentation for you, with your signed permission, and save you the leg work), and a couple of letters documenting the sports involvement (letters from past coaches, etc). With all that and the ortho consultation MEPS will more than likely send you on, you should have little problem joining the Navy because of the prior ACL surgery.

    Comment by NCCM(ret) — January 10, 2010 @ 8:08 am

  • Thank you so much for the quick response! I will get all of that documentation and let you know how it goes.

    MED

    Comment by MED — January 10, 2010 @ 5:19 pm

  • I have a spine fusion with hardware in place from scoliosis. I know my chances of getting a waiver are probably slim, but I’m not joinging for combat purposes. I want to join the navy for the Nurse Corps. I know I ‘could’ complete the PRT with ‘good’ or better results. the fusion doesn’t effect my movement as much because of two lucky reasons, 1. the fusion is t6 – l2, dead center of my back pretty much. 2. I have hypermobility anyways.
    I don’t want to waste my time, because this is heartbreaking enough for me. I heard your hte best person for advice on these types of things. Do you think I could get a waiver granted?
    ( I wouldn’t be going in for another 3 years. I’m a freshman in college now for my BSN. Also, I’m female, 17, 124 lbs ) Thanks for your time.

    Comment by Stacie Mercer — January 19, 2010 @ 8:13 am

  • Stacie,

    I do believe your chances of an approved waiver would be slim. I would, however, ensure that you pursue an official answer in a couple of years when you are ready. It wasn’t 10 years ago when retained hardware in an arm or leg was disqualifying altogether and today it gets approval regularly – point is, things change.

    If you wish to continue this conversation privately, please use my email address owner[at]navycs.com ([at] = @)

    Comment by NCCM(ret) — January 19, 2010 @ 3:22 pm

  • I am 29, a graduate of University of Pittsburgh School of Engineering, and applying for the Civil Engineering Core as an officer. I have had allergic rhinitis (nasal allergies) and I had asthma prior to age 12. The asthma symptoms have gone away. In the only physician’s records regarding these issues after age 12 the physician diagnosed me with “Allergic rhinitis,” and “Asthma that I think is probably best categorized as mild, intermittent.” I think the mild asthma diagnosis was based on miscommunication regarding my symptoms prior to age 12, not on my exam/tests, which didn’t indicate asthma. I have told my recruiter and MEPS I have maintained excellent physical condition and workout regiment my whole adult life and that I completed my first full 26.2 mile marathon this summer in a respectable 4 hours 28 minutes. I have told my recruiter that I do not have asthma, but I may have not explained fully why I think the physician’s diagnosis was incorrect and my request for waiver was submitted already. Is this diagnosis of mild asthma going to get denied a waiver? Would it help to submit proof of my completion and time for the marathon I ran? Can I provide 00M more info if the waiver request is denied?

    Very Respectfully,
    Patrick

    Comment by Patrick — January 19, 2010 @ 3:36 pm

  • Patrick,
    It has been my experience that 00M will request MEPS to send you on a methacholine challenge test to determine the capacity and functionality of your lungs – they may not and because of your athletic history just go ahead and approve it.

    If your waiver is already there and you think there is more information that can help your cause, then by all means provide that information to your Recruiter so he can get it into your package.

    Comment by NCCM(ret) — January 19, 2010 @ 6:29 pm

  • Hello,
    My husband has been in the Navy for almost 13 years now and I am interested in joining to be a medical officer. I would like to know if PCOS would disqualify me? I have it well under control as well as my weight and body fat. I have been getting mix information on this subject.

    Comment by Kimberly — January 20, 2010 @ 5:50 pm

  • Kimberly,
    I have no experience with individuals with that diagnosis. After reading up on it, because it appears to me to be chronic and may produce other health effects that could in themselves be disqualifying, I would suspect that no waiver would be granted. If you experience a different result, I would appreciate it if you could inform us here so others may benefit.

    Comment by NCCM(ret) — January 20, 2010 @ 6:33 pm

  • Thank you for your reply! Yes, if the military is the direction I intend to go I will take your advice, even though the chances seem to be slim. However, what you’ve said lines up with my research; cases seem to be determined on an individual basis and many issues can be factored into the final decision. I’ve been without symptoms for over two years, staying hopeful!

    Thanks again!

    Comment by Zay — January 24, 2010 @ 10:54 pm

  • During WWII flat feet made one 4F. Can you tell me if this is still the case, and particularly whether they would have made one inelligible to enlist in l975-76? Thank you.

    Comment by B. Moon — February 4, 2010 @ 1:41 am

  • B.Moon,

    Currently, as long as your flat feet condition has been, and is, asymptomatic, a waiver will be no problem. As late as the early 1990’s a flat feet waiver was more difficult than today, and it is possible (I have no stats or experience for the time frame) that flat feet was completely disqualifying back in the mid-1970s.

    Comment by NCCM(ret) — February 4, 2010 @ 7:29 am

  • My son had an eye injury two years ago that required a lens replacement. His vision now is great an he requires no glasses or anything for correction. He is starting to talk about the Navy. Have you ever seen “Lens Replacement” waived?

    Comment by Steve — February 8, 2010 @ 9:36 am

  • Steve,
    I have not seen lens replacement surgery waivers approved. It has been my experience; any surgery “into” the eye’s surface hasn’t had much hope of a waiver (except for PRK, LASIK).

    Comment by NCCM(ret) — February 9, 2010 @ 8:16 am

  • Hello, my name is chris and i am a highschool sophomore. As an infant i lost my right foot but I am in good physical condition, I can currently run three seven minute miles consecutively and do 25 pullups in 30 seconds. I also currently play varsity sports such as football and lacrosse. Will the Navy allow me to join after college.

    Comment by chris — February 25, 2010 @ 5:56 pm

  • I was diagnosed with Crohn’s disease 10 years ago and off of any medication for 6 years with no symptoms since my initial diagnosis.
    Do you think I could be wavered? What if I do exceptionally well on the ASVAB? Will I have a better chance?
    Thanks!

    Comment by William — February 25, 2010 @ 9:03 pm

  • Chris,

    There is no waiver authorized for a missing foot.

    Comment by NCCM(ret) — February 25, 2010 @ 10:45 pm

  • William,

    I have never seen a waiver authorized for Crohn’s – even if it has been in remission for an extended period of time.

    ASVAB scores have absolutely no bearing on your physical’s outcome.

    Comment by NCCM(ret) — February 25, 2010 @ 10:50 pm

  • My daughter just finished her MEPS physical. The doctor said that she was “not qualified but able to join” and told her that she needed to get a waiver for her eczema. She has a slight eczema condition. They reviewed her medical records form her personal doctor and are aware that the condition is minor and controlled with medication. She had no eczema at the time of th physical. Is this a non-waiverable condition?

    Comment by Graham — March 2, 2010 @ 5:30 pm

  • Graham,
    It has been my experience that minor cases of eczema (covers relatively small amounts of skin during flare ups) are normally waived. It is a good sign that the MEPS doctor recommended approval.

    Comment by NCCM(ret) — March 2, 2010 @ 5:43 pm

  • Am currently in DEP, will be a year this July when ship date is supposed to be. It appears now that I have a torn meniscus and will be requiring surgery to repair this. Will they have to drop me from DEP and will I be able to re-enlist? How long will the Navy require me to wait after surgery until I’m allowed to re-enlist? Will the waiver for a routine meniscus repair be difficult to get? There is no ligament damage at all, just a slight tear in the meniscus. Thanks.

    Comment by Paula — March 2, 2010 @ 6:59 pm

  • Paula,

    I have seen those who had arthroscopic surgery (the method I have seen used most to “fix” the meniscus) back up and ready to go within like 6-8 weeks. I think that once you are cleared by your doctor you may be good to go. I cannot remember the total waiting time, but I do know it isn’t an extensive wait like the ACL repair would be.

    Comment by NCCM(ret) — March 2, 2010 @ 10:08 pm

  • Thank you so much. We have been working with my daughter for over a year getting her to meet the PFT qualifications to enter Marines as an officer. She has lost over 60 pounds and is now able to complete the PFT. We were worried that she was going to be disqualified because of a really minor skit irritation. We still have some hope for her. Thanks again.

    Comment by Graham — March 3, 2010 @ 12:32 pm

  • I got sent out of MEPS today because I freaked and listed that I had a mild allergy of apples and plums. Now, I told them it was only sometimes and that it gets ichy when I eat them raw, but not cooked, baked, etc. Still the nurse did NOT DQ me, but sent me to prove it. Im just curious as to my chances of getting into the Navy because of this and what will be the most efficient piece of information I should get that would increase those chances.
    Thanks

    Comment by Lyco — March 3, 2010 @ 7:58 pm

  • Lyco,

    Usually a simple note won’t do it; you may need a letter from your family doctor that defines your supposed allergy.

    Comment by NCCM(ret) — March 3, 2010 @ 10:44 pm

  • Thank you for your responce. Im curioust as to if my letter says that its just a mild irritation only to apples, will they DQ me for that? Im hoping that since its not like milk or wheat, and that I complained about it once and never had an issue since, that I will be okay…

    Comment by Lyco — March 4, 2010 @ 5:48 pm

  • A single episode of a mild irritation is not an allergy in my opinion – hopefully your doctor agrees with me and points that out in his letter. I have no idea how MEPS will respond – I have seen allergies, even the suggestion of them, be a real problem because they are hard and sometimes expensive (allergy testing) to disprove.

    Comment by NCCM(ret) — March 4, 2010 @ 6:35 pm

  • My Husband had eczema as a kid, his last flare up was in 2003. It was mild then. He has had no problems since. It’s in his medical records so MEPS knew and ofcourse disqualified him. But the doctors just told him he needed to get a waiver. He got the waiver and sent it in, but it’s been a couple of weeks with no word. He’s trying to enter ANG reserves. Is there any hope of approval?

    Comment by KYWife — March 5, 2010 @ 3:24 am

  • Okay, that gives me some hope since the letter does state it was a mere irritation once, and not an allergy…Thank you again, I will get these letters in and see what happens…

    Comment by Lyco — March 5, 2010 @ 10:52 am

  • KYWife,
    It is always a good sign when the MEPS doctor recommends the waiver; of course it doesn’t mean it will be approved – in the case of eczema, it really depends on where, how often, and the amount of area covered during the flare ups.

    Comment by NCCM(ret) — March 5, 2010 @ 12:38 pm

  • Well, when he had flare ups, which has been almost 9 years now, he would get a sand dollar size patch on the insides of his arms, where the bend is, and he would get it on his neck in a smaller patch. And even then, his flare ups were few and in between. Only in an extreme temperature, like open exposure to extreme cold or heat. I have heard very few success stories of people getting in with any kind of skin condition, even though eczema is one of the most common conditions in the world. If he is not approved for ANG, would it even be worth the trouble to try another branch?

    Comment by KYWife — March 6, 2010 @ 1:23 am

  • My son was diagnosed by default with bipolar 1 1/2 years ago. By default I mean that the medical facilities (overseas-remote) could not definitely diagnose him with the means available. He went on medication for the bipolar and has been on and off it for 1 1/2 years. We are now in the States and doctors here cannot confirm the diagnosis. He desperately wants to join the Navy, but we are afraid this diagnosis will prevent him from doing so. Should we come clean with the previous diagnosis, or not tell them about it at all? Can they waiver the previous diagnosis and let him in conditionally if he is off the medication? We don’t want him to join, relapse and get kicked out. He is in top physical condition, but requires regular sleep (hence the continous medication). Your advice? We want to be honest, but want him to pursue his dream.

    Comment by Tracy — March 13, 2010 @ 1:50 am

  • Tracy,
    I have not seen a case where bipolar disorder has ever been approved a waiver. As you know, lying by omission is never a good idea. Conditional enlistments do not exist.

    Comment by NCCM(ret) — March 13, 2010 @ 8:24 am

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