Enlisting in the Army with hypothyroid?

Nahshon Eppley — Tue, 02 Jun 2020 16:18:03 -0400

I’ve been in the enlisting process now with the Army but my medical waiver just got denied over my hypothyroid. I have taken medication for years and it’s been completely under control. Has anyone been through this? All my bloodwork is perfect. Recruiter said I have to stop taking it for a year then try again. Has anyone been through this and found any work around a or anything at all?

Response by MSG Private RallyPoint Member made Jun 2 at 2020 4:36 PM

MSG Private RallyPoint Member — Tue, 02 Jun 2020 16:36:11 -0400

There is no work around. That is the requirements dictated by Department of Defense Medical Entrance Requirements.

Response by SSG Private RallyPoint Member made Jun 2 at 2020 6:19 PM

SSG Private RallyPoint Member — Tue, 02 Jun 2020 18:19:27 -0400

For any condition managed by medication usually requires a minimum of 1 to 2 years off the medication. This is to evaluate your condition and ensure if unable to have access to the medication I.E. when deployed, you can still perform.

Response by CSM Darieus ZaGara made Jun 2 at 2020 7:05 PM

CSM Darieus ZaGara — Tue, 02 Jun 2020 19:05:53 -0400

Listen, it is a deployability and liability issue. Should you deploy to an austere environment there is no guarantee your meds will remain available. The military cannot in good conscience allow folks with serious existing conditions to run that risk. In any case you can seek a waiver, but don’t count on it.