Expert: John Fiorentine - 1/1/2012

Question
QUESTION: Hello I am applying for CSPI and I just found out from looking over some medical records that I was prescribed blood pressure medicine back in 2007, on my next appointment they didn't subscribe anymore. Is this a nail in the coffin for me, because waivers are pretty much nonexistent right now?

Also I know I cracked my wrist back in elementary school, but I can't find the records for it, I've been told I would have to write for all of my records from NPR in St.Louis which could take up to a full month, should I turn in the application now and if I get a hold of those records come back to it. Or should I wait until I have all of my records.

ANSWER: Sean,

I do not believe the blood pressure prescription will eliminate you.  I would turn in the application now.

R/

LCDR John Fiorentine USCG

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

QUESTION: This past week I did turn it in but got a response back from the recruiter saying this.

"Unfortunately, after reviewing your application, it looks like you would be medically disqualified for military service due to a history of hypertension. Any past, or current history of high blood pressure, or hypertension is a medical disqualification. While some military services may be able to offer a waiver for such conditions, the Coast Guard and Homeland Security can not."

Would going to another recruiter help because, it seems he didn't want to apply for a waiver for me? I say this because in the first sentence he says it looks like I would be disqualified. Nevertheless, I would like to say thank you for your help, and hopefully I can get into the Navy's BDCP or the Marine Corps PLC program if this doesn't work out.

ANSWER: Sean,

I would do exactly that...try another recruiter.  I am will not tell you whether it is wise to remove the offending information from your record as that would be wrong but you can make your own decisions.  Which ever you choose may have consequences.

R/

LCDR John M. Fiorentine USCG

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

QUESTION: I have talked to another recruiter but he basically said that since I'm not in his area he can't help me. Are recruiter only allowed to work certain areas? Will I have a better shot next year? Do you think waivers will be easier to obtain any time soon?

Answer
Sean,

They are not supposed to poach from each other's geographic area.  I should have been more specific when I suggested seeing another recruiter.  When you call another recruiter use an address in that area.  For example enlisting from a step parents address or grand parents.

Whether or not your chances would be better next year...I can't say.  So much is dependent upon the supply of candidates and the demand for candidates by the service.  The economy and the state of the federal budget factor into both of those.

I honestly can't say whether or not waivers will be easier to come by.  If the service is able to fill its need with candidates not requiring waivers it will more than likely not grant many.

R/

LCDR John Fiorentine USCG