What Happens at MEPS Air Force? A Step-by-Step Guide
If you’re enlisting in the United States Air Force, you’re likely wondering what to expect during your Medical Examination Review Board (MEPS) process. MEPS is a crucial step in your enlistment journey, where you’ll undergo a thorough medical examination to determine your fitness for military service.
Step 1: Arrival and Check-In
Upon arrival at the MEPS facility, you’ll need to check-in at the reception desk and present your valid government-issued ID, Social Security card, and enlistment agreement. Make sure you arrive at least 3 hours prior to your scheduled appointment to allow time for processing.
Step 2: Medical Screening Questionnaire
You’ll be asked to complete a medical screening questionnaire, which will assess your medical history, medications, and previous injuries or illnesses. This information will help the healthcare professionals determine if you have any underlying conditions that might affect your ability to enlist.
Step 3: Medical Examination
The medical examination is usually the longest part of the MEPS process, typically taking around 2-3 hours. During this time, you’ll be evaluated by a team of healthcare professionals, including medical officers, nurses, and technicians.
Here’s an overview of what you can expect during the medical examination:
| Component | What to Expect |
|---|---|
| Height and Weight Measurements | Your height and weight will be recorded to determine if you meet the Air Force’s physical requirements. |
| Blood Pressure Check | Your blood pressure will be measured to ensure it falls within a healthy range. |
| Vision Test | You’ll undergo a standard vision test to determine your visual acuity and visual field. |
| Ears, Eyes, and Nose Exam | Your ears, eyes, and nose will be examined for any abnormalities or defects. |
| Blood Draw | You’ll be required to donate a blood sample for various lab tests, including blood tests for HIV, hepatitis, and other infectious diseases. |
| Urine Specimen | You’ll provide a urine sample for drug testing and other lab analyses. |
| Dental Evaluation | A dental evaluation will assess your oral health, including a review of any dental work, cavities, or gum disease. |
| Body Mass Index (BMI) Calculation | Your BMI will be calculated based on your height and weight to ensure you meet the Air Force’s body mass index requirements. |
Step 4: Enlistment Physical Fitness Assessment (EPFA)
The EPFA is an additional component of the medical examination that assesses your physical fitness. As a future Airman, you’ll need to complete a series of exercises designed to test your muscular endurance, strength, and mobility.
| Exercise | What to Do |
|---|---|
| Push-Ups | Perform as many push-ups as possible within 2 minutes. |
| Sit-Ups | Complete as many sit-ups as possible within 1 minute. |
| Reaction Time | Quickly respond to a stimulus by raising your hand or pressing a button. |
| 1-Mile Run | Run as fast as you can to complete a 1-mile course within a set time limit. |
Step 5: Lab Work and Medical Evaluation
Your blood and urine samples will be analyzed in a lab to determine if you’re free of any infectious diseases or medical conditions that would disqualify you for military service. Lab results are usually available the same day, and healthcare professionals will review them during your medical evaluation.
Step 6: Board Review
After your lab results are reviewed, a medical review board will examine your file and discuss your medical suitability for military service. If you’ve passed all the previous tests, you’ll be medically cleared and ready to advance to the next step of the enlistment process!
Tips and Reminders
To ensure a successful MEPS experience:
• Get plenty of sleep before your appointment.
• Wear loose, comfortable clothing that allows for easy movement during the medical examination.
• Avoid eating a large meal before your exam, as this can impact your ability to perform exercises.
• Bring your medications and any supporting medical documents, such as medical records or test results.
• Stay relaxed and focused during your exam, as this can help you perform better in the EPFA.
Conclusion:
MEPS is an essential part of the enlistment process for the US Air Force. By following these steps and tips, you’ll be well-prepared to navigate the MEPS process and achieve medical clearance for military service. Remember to stay focused, relaxed, and hydrated during your exam, and don’t hesitate to ask questions or seek clarification on any medical concerns.
You’ve got this!
