Asthma DQ

libbyhamm16

5-Year Member
Joined
May 27, 2013
Messages
2
So I've started out my applications for the naval academy and became an official candidate. I've been reading how people applying to the service academies were disqualified for having a history of asthma.

I had mild asthma when I was a kid but I never needed to take any medication for it. I have practically never used my inhaler and I haven't had any symptoms for years.

Would I still be disqualified? How long would it take to try and get a waiver?
I am really worried that this will crush my hopes of going to one of the academies! :frown:
 
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It generally depends on whether you've been diagnosed, had attacks or prescribed medication after age 13. If not, you should be ok. If so, it's harder, although not necessarily impossible.
 
Waivers are animals.

My DS separated his shoulder at NASS (twice - very long story/ies) and we "got it fixed" > week later by a sports shoulder specialist who literally guaranteed us he'd have no problem with the CFA.

it took months and several physician visits, letters and PT/trainer letters, but it was waived and he's accepted.

Words of advice:
1. That big blue flag in Bancroft means more than you realize
2. Overdo what you think the medics will need, esp with medical records
3. Second, third opinions from Pulmonologist will only help "seal the deal" so to speak
4. Letter/s from your pharmacy would not hurt

If this sounds like your are defending yourself in court - then you have the right picture. Some would criticize this approach...I ask them to call me back on I-Day and we'll discuss further.

I wish you the best of luck and remember, there are many ways to serve.
 
My daughter was DQ'd for a "History Of". She had medical records from High School indicating a disqualifying condition. We made an appointment with a real specialist not a GP who forwarded an evaluation to DODMERB. The results were evaluated by the DODMERB Physicians and the board and the DQ was overturned as they determined the condition never existed. As the Director told us in a phone call "they are not in the business of keeping kids out of the Academies, they are there to help the best get in". As usna1985 said it is not impossible after an initial DQ. Keep fighting and good luck
 
I cannot speak to what an SA is looking for but I firmly believe getting an opinion of a former military doctor in invaluable. Prior service military doctors know what the branch is looking for and can speak the language. I am convinced the opinion of the retired Army allergist we consulted with certainly helped DS case ultimately resulting in a granted waiver by AROTC CC. Lastly, please note DoDMERB is under new direction. Mr. Mullen ( current assistant director of DoDMERB) no longer actively reviews this forum. Do not expect DoDMERB to be as proactive as they were a few years ago. Best of luck in you quest.
 
Keep up home. I'm an appointee to the usafa class of 2017. Way back in septemeber or October I was disqualified for a history of asthma. I recieved my waiver in February or March. Make sure you get your DoDMERB evaluation done as soon as possible. That way if you are disqualified, you'll have plenty of time to work for a waiver. The people who responded before me had it right. You are basically trying to defend yourself. I hadn't had an attack in years, but because my doctor still had in my records, I was disqualified. I spent the following months getting medical records sent and specialist evaluations done. My doctor, sports coaches, and I all wrote letters to defend that I could handle it and I was ok. In the end, I had three copies of my records, several letters, and multiple pulmonary specialist test results sent to DoDMERB. I got my waiver though and I can honestly say all the hard work and effort was so worth it. Good luck.
 
I think you should be fine. I had asthma when I was younger as well. I reported it on DoDMERB, and they sent me to get a remedial done where my lungs were tested. After that I was medically qualified. As long as your asthma was mild and you havent had any symtoms for years, I don't think it will disqualify you.
 
You should go to the DODMERB section of forums and post your situation there; they can and usually will provide you with assisting advice in dealing with your medical situation. Please understand going forward that every case has its peculiarities, so it very much is unique - what worked for one may not work for another. Also, it will help if the candidate otherwise has a very strong file. Best wishes.
 
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