Expert: Howard Lorenz - 6/4/2008

Question
I am in the process of deciding to apply to either the OCS for the Army or enlisting.  I had some minor medical issues in the past; breaks as a kid, a concussion (all before I was 13) recently I finished PT for a pulled hamstring.  I went ahead and ordered my medical records from all the hospitals and can get the records from my PT.  When I presented the recruiter with it, he told me you don't need to mention any of that; it just causes delays and will scrutinize you more- especially if you are going in as a non-combatant MOS. This makes me feel a little uncomfortable and I know at MEPS they will ask again "have you ever" on the form.  I also don't know if they spot check medicals.  I am in great shape and waiting to do MEPS for a bit to make sure my hamstring is in adequate running condition anyway.  Should I ignore the advice of my recruiter and have a 'clean' medical or if I have the documentation anyway, be forthcoming?  Thank you sir.

Mo

Answer
You are in a catch 22. He is right, if you relinguish those records, they will mostlikely DQ you... If youi dont YOU tell them about any of it, they discharge you...

The military can only learn of you medical history if you tell them...so the scare you into telling all . HIPPA laws  protect you from that. They have you sign a release, but its not worth the paper its printed on. The hospitals will not relinquish the records unless you sign the HOSPITAL relase form...Its Their way of weeding out the undesireables.

I cant tell you what you need to do, but those are the options....