Sean Parnell, Chief Spokesman for the Department of Defense | https://media.defense.gov
The Department of Defense has announced updated guidance on medical waiver eligibility for individuals seeking to join the U.S. military. The new directive, issued by the Secretary of Defense, outlines changes in which certain medical conditions may no longer be eligible for waivers, while others may require approval from the Secretary of a Military Department.
According to the statement, "To ensure the readiness and high standards of America's fighting force, the Secretary of Defense issued updated guidance on medical waiver eligibility for men and women seeking to join the U.S. military. Under this guidance, some medical conditions may now not be waived, and others may now only be waived by the Secretary of a Military Department."
The memorandum titled "Medical Conditions Disqualifying for Accession into the Military" instructs both the Under Secretary of Defense for Personnel and Readiness (USD(P&R)) and Secretaries of Military Departments to revise their regulations accordingly. It also notes that USD(P&R) will regularly review these categories and provide updates as needed.
"The Department remains committed to mission success by ensuring that the young Americans who serve are physically and mentally capable of performing their duties in the harshest conditions," said Chief Pentagon Spokesperson Sean Parnell.
Further information about these changes can be found in the official memorandum released by the department.
