Expert: Rod Powers - 9/10/2006

Question
I was on medical leave for 30 days; (doing basic) they said that I would have medical coverage. I had none. When I was there I was seeing both a physical therapist and a chiropractor weekly and had a dead mans profile. Since I had a new personal insurance company, I couldn't have a scheduled appointment for about 3-4 weeks. My primary doctor referred me to an Ortho Surgeon. He is awaiting my records from base. All he did was take x-rays of my knee, hip and wrist. I also received cortisone shot in my knee. He was going to give me a pain prescription but I did need it since I was in the ER a few weeks prior because of pain (Percs) and my primary doctor put me on Sodium Naproxen and Tremadol. I also learned from my primary that I am anemic and I have to take iron everyday. I complained to the medical team on base about pelvic pain and they said he was more or less related to my hip injury. (Not sure of what is all wrong with it, I do know I have bursitis, asis upward rotation and my legs are know two different lengths) I went to a GYN a few weeks ago and found out that I have fibroids and a polyp and he wants me to have surgery now. I still limp because of my left knee (joint problems, bruised bone and other) and I have extreme pain in my right hip and lower back. Because I was on crutches for the two months, I have wrist pain. (I think that'll go away within time) I was given leave on July 14 and was supposed to return on August 11. Midnight tonight I will be considered a deserter. The reason why I did not come back was because of my pain. I cannot sit or stand for more than 25 minutes. I take over 4,500 mg of pain pills everyday just to get by. I contacted the Army and the insurance provider over 40 times (all documented and I used a cell phone to prove this) I'm sure I'll get dishonorable discharged, but I cannot make that long travel and I told them this. What can I do know? I know my body and my capablities. My injuries are ones that I may have my entire life. Is there anything I can do? I'm scared to death. Both of my health and never being 100% and the Army really slamming it on me!  

Answer
Hi  Antoinette,

Unfortunately, when on active duty, you don't get to decide whether or not you can or cannot report for duty.

YOu need to contact your unit first sergeant or commander and explain things, then follow their instructions. It's pretty much that simple -- otherwise, you are subject to being arrested, then tried by court-martial.

Rod Powers
http://usmilitary.about.com