What do I need to do to be able to give birth at home of record?

SPC Private RallyPoint Member — Fri, 31 Dec 2021 20:22:52 -0500

My base we have to use civilian OB off post. Which I have an OB. But I want to do my care near my base but actually give birth in my home state which is about 5 hours away. I read somewhere that I can use my leave for those appointments out of state but does anyone have an idea of how to actually schedule it. In my head I was thinking of taking leave going to my home state around 36 weeks and just waiting it out. But I’m like what if I don’t go in labor at 40 weeks?

Response by SFC Ralph E Kelley made Dec 31 at 2021 10:18 PM

SFC Ralph E Kelley — Fri, 31 Dec 2021 22:18:31 -0500

Take leave.

Response by SGT Jonathan Persons made Jan 1 at 2022 4:01 AM

SGT Jonathan Persons — Sat, 01 Jan 2022 04:01:53 -0500

I would look into asking your commander if you are mission essential at this time and if not, see if you can get permission for permissive TDY to a recruiting office or another base which may be located in your home state.
Be prepared to answer questions as to why you feel it is vital to be in your home state for the birth of your child.

As far as using leave to conduct appointments in another state, I would talk to a medical officer at your local TMC and your S-1 about the regulations pertaining to that.

Response by CSM Darieus ZaGara made Jan 1 at 2022 6:43 AM

CSM Darieus ZaGara — Sat, 01 Jan 2022 06:43:47 -0500

You can always take authorized leave if not on a mission. However, taking say 30 days and hoping you deliver in that time is risky. No one has to extend you, and likely won’t. You can request the TDY status at a local recruiter as stated but that is if accepted. This is a very big decision with many possible outcomes.

You should really speak to your command and think this through.

You are not the first, see your COC.

Response by MSG Private RallyPoint Member made Jan 1 at 2022 3:06 PM

MSG Private RallyPoint Member — Sat, 01 Jan 2022 15:06:49 -0500

I guess I'll ask the question folks are thinking but not asking....Why are you wanting to give birth at your HOR?

Response by SMSgt Bob W. made Jan 1 at 2022 5:24 PM

SMSgt Bob W. — Sat, 01 Jan 2022 17:24:50 -0500

Last I checked, babies don't follow a schedule or plan at birth. That all begins after the little bundle arrives. Don't waste your leave or PG time trying to time the baby's arrival. Once the child is born, go home and enjoy life with your newborn.