Expert: MARK A. HOWELL - 10/1/2010

Question
Hi,
Near the end of ky physical at MEPS, when the doctor asked
if i had any noticable marks or scarring on me, I showed
him some scars I had on my shoulder.
He immediately told me he was writing down that it was
due to self mutilation. This was even after I told him how i
got the scars. I recieved them while working (I work with
animals and was scratched). The initial injury wasnt even
too bad. The scarring just doesn't look nice.
I had my doctor submit a letter attesting to the fact that it
was not a self induced injury.
But my recruiter informed me I was still denied.
If I waited a year or two could I try enlisting again?
Ive never dealt with self injury so how can I be denied
based on a quick opinion?
Do I have any options as far as fighting the decision?
Would it just be better to wait for recruiting numbers to be
lower so I would have a better chance that ky waiver would
be granted?

Answer
Lauren,
You can try again later.  Your recruiter can tell you the waiting period.  Each Service is different, but the wait is not years.  Chances are you'll get a different physician at MEPS who may be willing to listen.  If you're not willing to wait, your recruiter can help you process an application for a waiver to the Surgeon General's office.  This will give you a chance to explain.  However, if they also deny you, that's final and you can't try again.  Therefore you might want to save this option until after your second exam at MEPS.

I'm really surprised he thought you were a "cutter."  Cutters usually go for the forearms and things easy to reach, not shoulders.  Unfortunately MEPS physicians have a lot of power and can really ruin your future with the military.

So checking with your recruiter is the next step.  He can explain your options.

Colonel H