Expert: Cynthia Bedell - 4/18/2009

Question
My son is currently trying to enlist into the Marine Corps. He has Hypothyroidism which has successfully been controlled and regulated with Synthroid for the past 18 years. Last year he qualified medically through DODMERB for a NROTC scholarship. He went through a semester of college only to realize that he wasn't ready for college and wanted enlist instead. During that semester he participated in the rigorous physically training called "Bulldog Prep" for OCS. He excelled physically in that area despite his "medical condition". Today, we learned that MEPS had DQ'd him due to his hypothyroidism. This doesn't make sense since we did our homework and learned that the Medical Standards for Appointment, Enlistment,and Induction in the Armed Forces, DoDI 6130.4 applies in this case. How can he be qualified through DODMERB and not MEPS? And, is there an appeal process we can utilize?
Thank you, Mark Rendahl(805)657-4904

Answer
Dear Mark --

Your son should apply for a medical waiver, if he wants to enlist with his thyroid condition.  Many conditions are disqualifying, but waivers are allowed, if the condition is treatable, and military service will not increase a medical issue, or the condition will not pose a risk to other Soldiers.

MEPS doctors follow a strict set of rules.  The waiver process is in place to allow those that can show their condition brings no risk to the military, to enlist.  You will have to provide doctors proof of successful treatment, and likely some evidence of long-term tolerance of physical activity.

Good luck to your son.