What is the process to appeal an Army MEPS denial of a medical waiver?

2019-10-10T16:00:12-04:00

My stepson applied for entry in the Army. He was treated at St Jude's for Leukemia when he was 2. He went into remission in 2000 and is now 21 years old attending USF. After evaluating his records MEPS requested additional information from a local oncologist since he had been in remission for so long. The oncologist went above and beyond with the lab work and everything came back within normal limits. She certified him as physical fit to perform all military duties. In spite of this, the Army Medical personal denied his waiver although, he has no evidence of effects of Chemotherapy, no evidence of cancer, but they stated that “perhaps could have” long term effects. This was based on a Pulmonary Function Test done at St Jude which indicated a slight drop....so they made the non-scientific leap to assume it was the chemo. What is the process for Appeal?

Response by MSG Private RallyPoint Member made Oct 10 at 2019 4:25 PM

2019-10-10T16:25:16-04:00

Everything I am finding is stating that the waiver IS the appeal. And if the waiver is denied, then that is the end of the road for trying to enlist.

Response by MAJ Private RallyPoint Member made Oct 10 at 2019 4:41 PM

2019-10-10T16:41:06-04:00

Most likely it’s the end of the road. The waiver was denied which is the step for a permanently disqualifying condition at MEPS. If the waiver is denied then you’re done. You might have some who will say that he can write a letter to his senator and congressman and ask them to intervene, but I’ve never actually heard of this going anywhere.

There are plenty of other ways to serve without military service such as getting a healthcare career and working at the VA. He shouldn’t be upset or feel less. The fact he even went to MEPS and was willing to sign up to serve puts him way ahead of the majority of young people in this country and he should be proud of that.

Response by MAJ Private RallyPoint Member made Oct 11 at 2019 7:42 PM

2019-10-11T19:42:16-04:00

As the other personnel have mentioned the waiver is the appeal process so this door seems to be closed. Have he thought about the Air Force of Navy as an option They may not deny his entry and gives him his chance for active duty service.

Response by SSG Private RallyPoint Member made Oct 12 at 2019 1:43 AM

2019-10-12T01:43:57-04:00

Unfortunately that's it, once that waiver is denied he is officially disqualified from service and won't be able to try again. The waiver is the appeal as it is a request to waive certain aspects hindering you from serving.