Expert: Howard Lorenz - 4/25/2010

Question
I was recently disqualified for an Army ROTC scholarship by DoDMERB for having a "History of Hyperthyroidism".  I am in the process of appealing for a medical waiver by Cadet Command.  I had a procedure done a couple years ago where some of my thyroid was destroyed so that I no longer have hyperthyroidism, and it will never be able to return to that state again.  My doctors have noted that I show no symptoms of the condition other than what is shown in my blood work.  Now I am hypothyroidism and all I take is a small hormone supplement just to regulate my thyroid levels.  I am very much physically active and have been given no medical limits.  My question to you is what do you think my chances are for obtaining a medical waiver by cadet command for having a "History of Hyperthyroidism".  I tried to research medical waivers but have found nothing like my situation.  The only thing I have found is that while hyperthyroidism is disqualifying, being controlled hypothyroidism on medications is allowed.

Thank you for your time.

Answer
I know that Hyperthyroidism is DQ for any service. Not sure why that is still the way it is with technology and medications that have advance 7 fold since the writing of that regulation. What you might do is get your docs behind you with some letters. Im not sure that the Army will reconsider, but at least you left no stone unturned.