Expert: John L - 3/29/2011

Question
QUESTION: I am considering applying for OCS with the U.S. Navy or Marines. My two questions are as follows: 1.) Does having a herniated/bulging disc automatically disqualify me from being accepted? This problem was diagnosed approximately 10 years ago, I am currently 25 years old, I maintain an physically active lifestyle and cannot remember the last time that I had any back pain.

2.) If I chose not to disclose this information to my recruiter/MEPS, could it be found out through a background check (medical records)?

ANSWER: It would disqualify you, if you do not divulge it, they cannot find it in medical records, they are not allowed by medical privacy laws and plus, they woldnt know which Dr to start with to ask.

However, it will most likley bother you again during military training.

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

QUESTION: Thank you Mr. Lewis, for taking the time to read and answer my question. I appreciate your candidness. Could you also let me know about the likelihood of obtaining a waiver for a herniated disc. I understand that recruitment numbers are up right now making it difficult to get a waiver of any kind. I have also heard that it may be beneficial to wait until October, the start of the new fiscal year. Can you shed some light on this for me. Thank you again.

Answer
The new year will not matter one bit, but you will not get a waiver for a herniated disk, that I can assure you.

Recruitment numbers will be good for at least a couple more years, as the job growth is that slow, ( my opinion only), but if you are sure you will have no issues, I would go for it.