Expert: Jason Grabill - 1/6/2009

Question
QUESTION: I went to meps only to do my physical a few days ago. I have not enrolled in DEP . I was so concerned about a waiver I needed that I didnt mention several emergency room visits. I told them about hospitalization and surgeries but not about the ER visits. They were all minor and several years back. One was actually for a toothaache because the tropical storm was coming through and my dentist was closed. Another I was in a car accident and the air bag exploded on my face. I was treated and released. I even provided them documents regarding another for the waiver I need but put no on the form. I am sure my recruiter will tell me not to worry about it but I want it corrected regardless of the consequences. When I disclose this will I automatically be disqualified or will they adjust my medical history form and review it so I can continue with processing?

ANSWER: Melissa:

 I wouldnt' sweat the ER visits, sounds like you were 'treated and released' in all cases, and it's not that big a deal in the long run.  Sounds like you did everything you are supposed to.  Your recruiter would be right in telling you not to worry in this case, and if you do bring the stuff up, it won't DQ you but it will be a real pain in the hindquarters to do all the paperwork over for little bit of nothing, in this case.  If you had failed to disclose major surgeries or other conditions that would impact on recruit training, I'd have a different answer (as I almost always do), but these appear minor and not worth sweating it out over.

Jason

---------- FOLLOW-UP ----------

QUESTION: Thank you for your response I am just worried about them because I will need a secret security clearance and I believe they pull hospital records. I am a military dependent so one of the ER visits was on my tricare insurance. Do you think that would be a problem later wit the clearance?  

Answer
Melissa:

 If you really, really, are that worried about it, then go through the entire process again.  If it will make you feel better, then do it.  If you haven't talked to the recruiter about it, then tell him.  If he says not to worry, then don't.

Jason