Kerataconus--do I qualify to commission?

[23usna23]

I am currently a Midshipman at USNA and I was told over Plebe Summer that I have Keratoconus.

I did not think too much of it, as I thought it was a common disorder and that people who have it here receive PRK or LASIK before commissioning. Unfortunately, surgery is not recommended for Keratoconus as it could become a liability.. and having a history of Keratoconus or any eye disorder is disqualifying.

I recently got an email about further testing at Walter Reed Medical, where I will be doing the PENTACAM eye scan. Since I found out about it after being cleared by DODMERB and the Academy, I was wondering what happens from here?

I am the Class of '23, so I have only been at the Academy for a few months and I am no where near signing my 2 for 7. Can I still commission restricted line? Will they separate me? Has this happened before and what is the protocol?

 

[Impulsive]

Since you are currently a Midshipman, I would think that this is an issue you need to discuss with your Leadership (both Mid and Academy). This forum is probably NOT the best place to ask your question as you may get conflicting answers. You can review COMNAVCRUITCOMINST 1130.8K, as of 04/24/2019 your condition is generally not waiverable. If this is the case, I am confused why someone has not addressed this with you by now. Good Luck!

 

[23usna23]

Since you are currently a Midshipman, I would think that this is an issue you need to discuss with your Leadership (both Mid and Academy). This forum is probably NOT the best place to ask your question as you may get conflicting answers. You can review COMNAVCRUITCOMINST 1130.8K, as of 04/24/2019 your condition is generally not waiverable. If this is the case, I am confused why someone has not addressed this with you by now. Good Luck!

Thank you! I posted it on the general USNA forum and have received responses. I was just coming here to see if anyone had seem similar situations, since I know there are a lot of graduated mids and retired officers who have worked at USNA. Thank you for the concern and source!

 

[Capt MJ]

Mods - this dupes the same thread started by OP in USNA forum, which already has several responses.

Recommend close and merge.


Qualify for Commission with Keratoconus?

Qualify for Commission with Keratoconus?

I am currently a Midshipman at USNA and I was told over Plebe Summer that I have Keratoconus. I did not think too much of it, as I thought it was a common disorder and that people who have it here receive PRK or LASIK before commissioning. Unfortunately, surgery is not recommended for...

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