Medical waiver and commissioning

[MJOmom]

Hi ... my son is a college junior with a full NROTC scholarship ... he also had planned jaw surgery over xmas to correct an under bite/jaw misalignment. The unit knew about this -- it's been years in the planning. He has, and will have, a couple of screws in his jaw. Now he must go through a full medical review ... he's a little worried ... any advice? His commander and company love him ... he's a great leader, so they are backing him. The screws and plate seem to be the concern ... we're hopeful, but want to be pro-active ...

 

[kinnem]

Hi ... my son is a college junior with a full NROTC scholarship ... he also had planned jaw surgery over xmas to correct an under bite/jaw misalignment. The unit knew about this -- it's been years in the planning. He has, and will have, a couple of screws in his jaw. Now he must go through a full medical review ... he's a little worried ... any advice? His commander and company love him ... he's a great leader, so they are backing him. The screws and plate seem to be the concern ... we're hopeful, but want to be pro-active ...

I'd post this on the DoDMERB threads and see what input you get there. I'm pretty sure that a DoDMERB review, like the one your son went through when he got the scholarship is only good for 2 years anyway and needs to be redone. If that's the case then this may not have anything to do with the jaw surgery at all but is merely coincidental. In any case it may not be an issue but the folks on DoDMERB can probably give you some insight on how to prepare for a remedial or even a waiver if that becomes necessary. I hope everything goes fine and no issues come up for him. I can certainly understand how it would be nerve-wracking at this time.

 

[khergan]

You can get a waiver, but it's stressful and time consuming. I had to have surgery on my foot prior to commissioning and it delayed my orders by like 4.5 months.

So tread with caution. Especially in this new world of dwindling military budgets, people seeking waivers might find themselves getting put out. Not saying it will happen, but you never know. I had no idea for over four months whether or not I was getting kicked out or being waivered. It was pretty stressful.

 

[MJOmom]

Thanks so much for the input ... My son went for an official physical in February ... and told the examining doctor about the surgery (he still has braces ...) ... the doctor basically said ... "wow I bet that hurt" and moved on. This surgery will not impact his physical readiness ... so that's the big thing.

Thank you again for the feedback!

 

[MJOmom]

Also ... his commanders and staff really want him to proceed ... he is highly thought of in his unit -- does lots of volunteer work, organizes and all the "right" stuff ... so that can only help. It will be a waiting game ... and one I have no input or influence on ...

thanks again!