There are several rare types of eyesight issues such as blepharitis, conjunctiva, cornea dystrophy, and iridocyclitis that are disqualifying diseases. It can also enhance or worsen symptoms of other, undiagnosed mental health conditions. Analytical cookies are used to understand how visitors interact with the website. Despite the stigma, mental illness is not uncommon or a personal problem. A chaplain is an Australian Regular Army (ARA) or Army Reserve (ARes) commissioned Specialist Service Officer responsible for the provision of spiritual, religious and pastoral support to all ADF personnel and their families in a range of peacetime and operational environments. East Meets West Day: The Handshake That Made History. Unexplained asymmetric hearing loss by a difference of 30 or more dB between the left and right ears at any one or more frequencies between 500 hertz, 1000 hertz, or 2000 hertz. SAMHSAs National Helpline A free and confidential government service that helps individuals and families coping with mental and/or substance use disorders. The military will study things like when you were diagnosed, current symptoms, if you take medication for your depression, and if youve received inpatient/outpatient care in the last year. Why? Instead, it examines each case on an individual basis. There's no obligation for talking to us. This cookie is installed by Google Analytics. The military will study a case of depression very closely to determine eligibility. The following conditions are disqualifying: As you might suspect, heart conditions are a delicate subject when being evaluated for duty in the U.S. Armed Forces. The decision is up to you, but some strongly believe that what isnt known doesnt hurt anyone. Current hearing threshold level in either ear that exceeds: Twenty-five decibels (dB) averaged at 500, 1000, and 2000 cycles per second, Thirty dB at 500, 1000, or 2000 cycles per second. Other conditions unlikely to be waived include: Obsessive Compulsive Disorder HIV/AIDS Diabetes, Type I or II Seizure disorders Significant hearing loss or loss of vision Cirrhosis Placement Exam (ASVAB) For example, someone with a mild form of Aspergers could potentially receive a medical waiver from the military. You can do this while maintaining your college curriculum and earning up to 100% tuition coverage. Can You Still Join the Military With a DUI Conviction? Your visit to a Military Entrance Processing Station (MEPS) determines your mental aptitude, as well as physical and moral qualifications for enlistment in the Army. For website corrections, write to TAD-PUBLIC-AFFAIRS@usace.army.mil, An official website of the United States government, About the Transatlantic Division Public Website, The U.S. Army Corps of Engineers Transatlantic Division, Click here for a current list of disqualifying conditions, Hosted by Defense Media Activity - WEB.mil. Though you shouldnt count on it, there is hope if you make your case. All recruits complete a medical questionnaire and undergo an evaluation that includes height and weight measurements, hearing and vision exams, urine and blood tests, and drug and alcohol tests. The following conditions may disqualify you from military service: a. Esophagus. Related Article: Can I Join the Military with Asthma? Distant visual acuity of any degree that does not correct with spectacle lenses to at least one of the following: 20/40 in one eye and 20/70 in the other eye, 20/30 in one eye and 20/100 in the other eye, 20/20 in one eye and 20/400 in the other eye, USMA and ROTC disqualifications: 20/20 in one eye and 20/40 in the other eye, OCS disqualifications: 20/20 in one eye and 20/100 in the other eye, Near visual acuity of any degree that does not correct to 20/40 in the better eye, Refractive error (hyperopia, myopia, astigmatism) worse than -8.00 or +8.00 diopters, Hyperopia over 8.00 diopters spherical equivalent, Myopia over 8 diopters spherical equivalent, Refractive error corrected by orthokeratology or keratorefractive surgery, Contact lenses except for in complicated cases, Absence of color vision (no standard test), Inability to distinguish and identify without confusion the color of an object, substance, material, or light that is uniformly colored a vivid red or vivid green, Dysmenorrhea causing absence from routines for more than a few hours, Menopausal syndrome, if constituted by more than mild symptoms, Congenital absence of or enlargement of the uterus, Abnormal Pap smear graded LGSIL or higher or any smear with carcinoma-in-situ, invasive cancer, condyloma, acuminatum, human papillomavirus, or dysplasia, Major abnormalities and defects of the genitalia including a change of sex, Epispadias or Hypospadias, when accompanied by urinary tract infection or if clothing is soiled when voiding, Undiagnosed enlargement or mass of testicle or epididymis, Major abnormalities and defects of the genitalia, Hematuria, pyuria, or other incidents or renal tract disease, Renal calculus within 12 months, recurrent calculus, nephrocalcinosis, or bilateral renal calculi, Deformities of the skull, face, or jaw preventative of wearing masks or helmets, Defects, loss, or congenital absence of the bony substance of the skull leaving a defect more than 1 square inch (6.25 cm squared), Contraction of the muscles of the neck or cicatricial contracture of the neck, Valvular heart diseases except for mitral valve prolapse and bicuspid aortic valve, Supraventricular tachycardia or dysrhythmia originating from the atrium or sinoatrial node within 2 years, Ventricular arrhythmias except for occasional premature ventricular contractions, Ventricular conduction disorders, left bundle branch block, Mobitz type II second-degree atrioventricular (AV) block, third-degree AV block, Wolff-Parkinson-White Syndrome, and Lown-Ganong-Levine Syndrome, Conduction disturbances when symptomatic or associated with underlying cardiovascular disease, Congenital anomalies of the heart and great vessels except for corrected patent ductus arteriosus, Abnormalities of the arteries and blood vessels, Vein diseases with a year or venous incompetence, Men: Height under 60 inches (5) or over 80 inches (68), Women: Height under 58 inches (410) or over 80 inches (68), Acute infectious processes of the lung until cured, History of cough, wheeze, and/or dyspnea recurring over a prolonged period of, generally, more than six months, Bullous or generalized pulmonary emphysema, Chest wall malformation or fracture interfering with vigorous physical exertion, Foreign body in lung, trachea, or bronchus, Pleurisy with effusion within two years or from unknown origin, Pneumothorax within a year or from an unknown origin and recurrent spontaneous pneumothorax after surgery or pleural sclerosis within three years, Encapsulated silicone breast implants within 9 months or with symptomatic complications, Cleft lip or palate defects unless repaired, Allergic or vasomotor rhinitis if not controlled by medication, Vocal cord paralysis or symptomatic disease of the larynx, Nasal polyps unless your surgery was completed within a year, Perforation of the nasal septum with symptoms, Larynx ulceration, polyps, granulated tissue, or chronic laryngitis, Deformities or conditions of the mouth, tongue, palate throat, pharynx, larynx, and nose that interfere with chewing, swallowing, speech, or breathing, Cerebrovascular conditions, subarachnoid or intracerebral hemorrhage, vascular insufficiency, aneurysm, or arteriovenous malformation, Congenital malformations if associated with neurological manifestations and meningocele, Degenerative and heredodegenerative disorders affecting the cerebrum, basal ganglia, cerebellum, spinal cord, and peripheral nerves or muscles, Recurrent headaches that interfere with your normal function within 3 years, Late post-traumatic epilepsy occurring more than one week after injury. Unfortunately, the military considers PTSD a disqualifying mental health condition. It is assumed that for the most part, it is not a factor in discharging you from the military, or preventing getting enlisted because of it. If youre hoping to join the Army Reserves, youre best off to follow the medical requirements of serving on active duty. Below is the current list of disqualifying medical conditions (these are subject to change). ADF health assessments - recruiting The need for high recruiting medical standards was first demonstrated in Australia during World War 1. You are officially enlisted in the Army after you have been through all evaluations, passed the ASVAB, chosen your job, signed your contract, and taken the Oath of Enlistment. Those with a history of epilepsy must have a current neurology consultation with current EEG results for consideration. Youll still need a medical waiver to join the military with any form of autism. Mild head injuries defined by unconsciousness or amnesia of one hour or less are disqualifiers until one month after the injury if showing no signs of complications. If youve been diagnosed with PTSD, you likely wont receive a waiver. However, the general rule is that you cannot enter the Armed Forces if you required inpatient or outpatient care related to an anxiety disorder in the last 12 months. Body fat composition might also be measured to evaluate an applicants qualification. Your recruiter can also help you obtain medical records before MEPS and help you complete any waivers if needed. Meningitis, encephalitis, or poliomyelitis within one year, Neurosyphilis, general paresis, tabes dorsalis meningovascular syphilis, Paralysis, weakness, lack of coordination, pain, sensory disturbance, Epilepsy beyond the age of 5 unless the applicant has been seizure-free for 5 years without medication, Chronic disorders such as myasthenia or multiple sclerosis, Disorders which caused admission to a hospital or residential facility, Disorders requiring care by a physician or mental health professional for more than 6 months, Disorders with repetitive symptoms or behaviors impairing social, school, or work efficiency, Disorders causing encounters with law enforcement or antisocial attitudes or behaviors, Disorders where the degree of immaturity, instability, personality inadequacy, impulsiveness, or dependency will seriously interfere with military adjustment, Other disorders like enuresis or encopresis, sleepwalking, or eating disorders, Suicide, suicide attempts, or suicidal behavior. When joining, they must also disclose significant medical. But opting out of some of these cookies may affect your browsing experience. 2. This also gives you a chance to get settled and get to know other recruits. document.getElementById( "ak_js_1" ).setAttribute( "value", ( new Date() ).getTime() ); Rob V. is the founder of OperationMilitaryKids.org. The list of deployment-limiting conditions is not comprehensive; there are many other conditions that may result in denial of medical clearance for deployment. These include conditions like depression, bipolar disorder, epilepsy, heart issues, Asperger's, and PTSD. You will find out for sure once you get to MEPS. Pregnancy, contagious diseases, physical deformities and problems with internal organs are also disqualifying conditions. If enlisting in the Delayed Enlistment Program (DEP), personal conduct rules are communicated to you. Firstly, they facilitate operational capability by ensuring that entrants are medically suitable for the tasks they will undertake: all else being equal, infantry soldiers who are recruited to a higher medical standard have a capabil-ity edge against opponents who are not. https://www.military.com/join-armed-forces/disqualifiers-medical-conditions.html, The Armys FY 2023 budget request is ~$177.5 Billion. As mentioned previously, there are dozens of conditions that can disqualify you at MEPS. If you have any congenital spinal fusion of more than 2 vertebrae or any surgical spinal fusion, you will be disqualified to join the military. Min. These cookies ensure basic functionalities and security features of the website, anonymously. Medical Conditions. A pregnancy test is also required. These evaluations determine if you meet the physical, mental, and moral standards set by the Army. For someone with a severe peanut allergy, on the other hand, it could be potentially risking their life. It would include conditions like ulcerative colitis and ulcerative proctitis. Required fields are marked *. How do I join ROTC at the college I want to attend? Recruits must meet minimum requirements for weight and body fat percentage, as well as pass vision and hearing tests. 16.5% of Americas youth (ages 6-17) experienced a mental health disorder in 2016, VA Disability For Anxiety Disorders Guide, Army APFT Standards for Males and Females, SAMHSA Behavioral Health Treatment Services Locator, Anxiety and Depression Association of America, Good Conduct Medal & Ribbon Explained For All 5 Branches, Sea Service Ribbon: All 5 Military Branches Explained, Overseas Service Ribbon Explained For All 6 Military Branches. Active Duty: 473,000 If an employee is not able to have the physical and vaccinations completed at the occupational health facility, they may still be reimbursed for those costs up to a certain amount. Disqualification based on eyesight for appointment, enlistment, or induction includes: Requirements for color vision are set by individual branches, and color vision deficiencies may limit your choice of career fields. However, that doesnt stop the military from reportedly prescribing antidepressants to a surprisingly high number of active-duty soldiers. These include all types of Bipolar, including Bipolar I, II, Cyclothymic disorder, and mixed features. However, retainer appliances are permissible. With your Guidance Counselor, you will sign your enlistment contract at this time. Dental work is not reimbursable. https://asc.army.mil/docs/policy/army_waiverguide_0802.pdf, https://www.navy.mil/search/display.asp?story_id=108623, https://www.airforce.com/how-to-join/prepare-for-success/meet-requirements, https://www.esd.whs.mil/Portals/54/Documents/DD/issuances/dodi/613003p.pdf?ver=2018-05-04-113917-883, Your email address will not be published. and max. If you struggle with any of the conditions mentioned below, it is a good idea to speak with a local U.S. Military recruiter. You will be reimbursed for your physical and dental exams only. Your email address will not be published. . Australian Family Physician was the peer-reviewed, scholarly journal of The Royal Australian College of General Practitioners (RACGP) from 1971 to 2017. Waiver & Release of Liability and the Privacy Policy. Get a good night's sleep the night before for the early morning start and long day. Military.com. As far as were aware, none of the following sexually transmitted diseases are grounds for military disqualification, nor do they require a waiver. Can you join the Army with a history of depression? If I missed the allergy shot one week for one reason or another, it wasnt a big deal. Related Article: Can You Join the U.S. Military with Autism? SAMHSA Behavioral Health Treatment Services Locator Help with finding a treatment facility near you. Likewise, specific phobias such as a fear of specific animals like spiders, snakes, or dogs (zoophobia), fear of specific environments like heights or thunderstorms (acrophobia/astraphobia), and situational fears like bridges or driving (gephyrophobia/xenophobia) can all be grounds for military disqualification. The disorder causes persistent mental or emotional stress, which is usually a result of some form of trauma. Are there any conditions or illnesses that automatically disqualify you from service? Your recruiter will help prepare you for MEPS by ensuring you have the proper documentation and answering your questions. If you struggle with any of the conditions mentioned below, it is a good idea to speak with a local U.S. Military recruiter. Your MEPS physical is good for two years. - Quora https://www.quora.com/Can-you-join-the-Australian-Army-if-you-have-ADHD Other endocrine or metabolic disorders such as: Forward elevation to 90 degrees and/or abduction to 90 degrees, Flexion to 100 degrees and/or extension to 15 degrees, A total range of 60 degrees (extension plus flexion) and/or radial and ulnar deviation combined arc 30 degrees, Pronation to 45 degrees and/or supination to 45 degrees, Inability to clench a fist, pick up a pin, grasp an object, or touch tips of at least three fingers with the thumb, Absence of the distal phalanx of either thumb, Absence of distal and middle phalanx of an index, middle, or ring finger of either hand, Absence of more than the distal phalanx of any two of either the index, middle, or ring fingers of either hand, Scars and deformations of the fingers or hand that impairs normal function, Recovery from disease or injury with residual weakness or symptoms of the wrist, forearm, elbow, arm, or shoulder, Absences of one or more small toes if it affects your proper function or creates poor running or jumping technique or absence of any part of the foot, Absence to great toe(s) or loss of dorsal/plantar flexion, Loose or foreign bodies within the knee joint, Surgical correction of any knee ligament if it is causing symptoms or is unstable, Congenital dislocation of the hip, osteochondritis of the hip (Legg-Perthes disease), or slipped femoral epiphysis of the hip, Hip dislocation within 2 years of medical examination, Osteochondritis of the tibial tuberosity (Osgood-Schlatter disease), Deformities, disease, or chronic pain of the lower extremities, Shortening of a lower extremity causing limp or scoliosis, Chronic osteoarthritis or traumatic arthritis in isolated joints of more than a minimal degree, Malunion or nonunion of any fracture, except an ulnar styloid process, Injury of a bone or a joint more than a minor nature occurring within 6 weeks of medical examination, Muscular paralysis, contracture, or atrophy, Osteochondromatosis or Multiple Cartilaginous Exostoses, Scars that are extensive, deep, or adherent to the skin and soft tissues that interfere with muscular movements, Implants, silastic, or other devices implanted to correct orthopedic abnormalities, Deformity of the lids that interferes with vision or impairs the protection of the eyes, Pterygium if encroaching on the cornea above 3 mm, interfering with vision, progressive, or recurring after two operative surgeries, Keratorefractive surgery; Laser surgery or appliance utilized to reconfigure the cornea is also disqualifying, Vascularization or opacification of the cornea, Chorioretinitis or inflammation of the retina, unless single episode of a known cause that has healed and does not interfere with vision, Congenital or degenerative changes of any part of the retina, A detachment of the retina, history of surgery for a detached retina, or peripheral retinal injury or degeneration that may cause retinal detachment, Optic neuritis, neuroretinitis, secondary optic atrophy, or history of attacks of retrobulbar neuritis, Aphakia, lens implant, or dislocation of the lens, Opacities of the lens that interfere with vision or are progressive, Strabismus that is uncorrectable by lenses to less than 40 diopters or if it accompanied by diplopia, Surgery to correct strabismus within 6 months of medical examination, USMA and ROTC disqualifiers: Esotropia of over 15 prism diopters, exotropia of over 10 prism diopters, and hypertropia of over 5 prism diopters.