How Far Back Does the Military Check Medical Records?
When it comes to joining the military, having a clean medical record is crucial. The military requires candidates to disclose any medical conditions or treatments they have received in the past, and failure to do so can result in enlistment disqualification or even discharge. But just how far back does the military check medical records? In this article, we’ll explore the answer to this question and provide valuable insights for those considering a career in the military.
What Medical Records Does the Military Check?
The military checks a wide range of medical records, including:
- Medical history: The military reviews a candidate’s medical history, including any previous illnesses, injuries, or conditions they have had.
- Medical treatment records: The military checks records of any medical treatments or surgeries a candidate has received, including hospitalizations, doctor’s visits, and prescriptions.
- Mental health records: The military reviews mental health records, including any diagnoses, treatments, or hospitalizations for mental health conditions.
- Medication records: The military checks records of any medications a candidate is currently taking or has taken in the past.
How Far Back Does the Military Check Medical Records?
The military typically checks medical records for the past 10-15 years, although this can vary depending on the individual’s circumstances. Here are some key points to keep in mind:
- Active duty candidates: The military typically checks medical records for the past 10-15 years for active duty candidates.
- Reserve and National Guard candidates: The military may check medical records for the past 15-20 years for Reserve and National Guard candidates.
- Medical conditions: The military may check medical records for a longer period of time if a candidate has a medical condition that requires ongoing treatment or management.
- Prior service candidates: The military may check medical records for the entire duration of a candidate’s prior service, even if it was many years ago.
What Happens if You Have a Pre-Existing Medical Condition?
If you have a pre-existing medical condition, it’s essential to disclose it to the military. Failure to do so can result in:
- Enlistment disqualification: The military may disqualify you from enlistment if you fail to disclose a pre-existing medical condition.
- Discharge: If you’re already in the military and fail to disclose a pre-existing medical condition, you may be discharged from service.
- Treatment and management: The military may require you to undergo treatment or management for your medical condition, which can impact your ability to perform your duties.
What to Do if You Have a Question About Your Medical Records
If you have a question about your medical records or are unsure what to disclose, here are some steps you can take:
- Contact your doctor: Reach out to your doctor or healthcare provider to get a copy of your medical records and review them with you.
- Contact the military: Reach out to the military recruiter or medical officer to ask questions about the medical record review process and what information they need from you.
- Be honest and transparent: Be honest and transparent about your medical history and any conditions you have. Failure to disclose information can have serious consequences.
Conclusion
The military checks medical records for a wide range of medical conditions and treatments, and the timeframe for checking records can vary depending on the individual’s circumstances. If you have a pre-existing medical condition, it’s essential to disclose it to the military to avoid enlistment disqualification or discharge. By understanding what medical records the military checks and how far back they check, you can make informed decisions about your military career.
Table: Medical Records Check Timeline
| Type of Candidate | Timeframe for Medical Record Check |
|---|---|
| Active Duty | 10-15 years |
| Reserve and National Guard | 15-20 years |
| Prior Service | Entire duration of prior service |
| Medical Conditions | Longer period of time if condition requires ongoing treatment or management |
Bullets: Important Points to Remember
• The military checks a wide range of medical records, including medical history, medical treatment records, mental health records, and medication records.
• The military typically checks medical records for the past 10-15 years, although this can vary depending on the individual’s circumstances.
• Failure to disclose a pre-existing medical condition can result in enlistment disqualification or discharge.
• Be honest and transparent about your medical history and any conditions you have.
• Contact your doctor or healthcare provider to get a copy of your medical records and review them with you.
• Contact the military recruiter or medical officer to ask questions about the medical record review process and what information they need from you.
