Eczema... again

[usnahopeful09]

Bump

 

[Old Navy BGO]

I don't know what the DODMERB qualification says in terms of notifying them of a change in status. IOW, what triggers the requirement to notify. If you don't meet the threshold, then you don't need to do anything.

If it did not require medical attention, did not require prescription medication or OTC meds, in my opinion the condition does not rise to the seriousness of needing to be reported

First, I would be cautious about relying upon this forum for medical, legal, or ethical advice. There are some good perspectives here, but at the end of the day, you have to make a decision that is right for you.

Second, to reiterate USNA1985 recommendation ....Read the instructions you have been giving. I have no idea what the PTR says about changed medical conditions, or whether there is any other guidance, but read them carefully and respond according to YOUR reasonable interpretation of them . Personally, and in my opinion only, I would not consider it an honor offense if your reasonable interpretation of the instructions concluded you did not to have self report. On the other hand, if the instructions require self reporting, it is appropriate to gather the necessary medical advice necessary to put the best spin on things. Keep in mind, if the eczema is stress induced ---the stress isn't going to lighten up any time soon.

Finally, a comment about military medical. They are in the business of keeping our soldiers and sailors healthy so they can serve. They are not looking for ways to disqualify you. I will admit, its hard to recognize that when you are 18 . As a Naval Flight Officer, the Flight Surgeon was to be avoided at all costs, and you never volunteered information that could get you grounded. It took me over 30 years before I got comfortable telling a Dr how I really felt. I'm not saying you want to be a sick call commando, but don't hesitate to get treatment when you need it.

 

[usnahopeful09]

I don't know what the DODMERB qualification says in terms of notifying them of a change in status. IOW, what triggers the requirement to notify. If you don't meet the threshold, then you don't need to do anything.

If it did not require medical attention, did not require prescription medication or OTC meds, in my opinion the condition does not rise to the seriousness of needing to be reported

First, I would be cautious about relying upon this forum for medical, legal, or ethical advice. There are some good perspectives here, but at the end of the day, you have to make a decision that is right for you.

Second, to reiterate USNA1985 recommendation ....Read the instructions you have been giving. I have no idea what the PTR says about changed medical conditions, or whether there is any other guidance, but read them carefully and respond according to YOUR reasonable interpretation of them . Personally, and in my opinion only, I would not consider it an honor offense if your reasonable interpretation of the instructions concluded you did not to have self report. On the other hand, if the instructions require self reporting, it is appropriate to gather the necessary medical advice necessary to put the best spin on things. Keep in mind, if the eczema is stress induced ---the stress isn't going to lighten up any time soon.

Finally, a comment about military medical. They are in the business of keeping our soldiers and sailors healthy so they can serve. They are not looking for ways to disqualify you. I will admit, its hard to recognize that when you are 18 . As a Naval Flight Officer, the Flight Surgeon was to be avoided at all costs, and you never volunteered information that could get you grounded. It took me over 30 years before I got comfortable telling a Dr how I really felt. I'm not saying you want to be a sick call commando, but don't hesitate to get treatment when you need it.

Thanks for the post. I think I have the self-reporting part figured out. I’m just afraid that I could be medically separated if a mild case came up during my time there- would that happen, or would they try to treat it and keep me?

 

[falconchic88]

I don't think anyone can answer that question for you. My guess, it would depend on the severity, frequency, and treat ability.

 

[Old Navy BGO]

I’m just afraid that I could be medically separated if a mild case came up during my time there- would that happen, or would they try to treat it and keep me?

As Falcon says, it depends ..... The starting point is that Military Medical will treat you. The big question is whether it would impair your ability to get a commission and serve. USNA does a very thorough physical, I think late 2nd Class or early 1st Class year, to evaluate whether you are qualified for Commissioning, and what restrictions are placed on your service. I have never heard of anyone being separated solely as a result of the Pre-Com physical, but there are usually a handful that cannot be commissioned or end up serving in some restricted capacity.

If you determine that you don't have to self report, then my advice would be to move on, don't dwell on the issue, and see what happens.

 

[THParent]

I think Maplerock gave the best advice.
usna1985 is no slouch, either.