Pentagon Tightens Medical Waiver Rules for Military Enlistment
The Pentagon has updated its rules, eliminating medical waivers for certain conditions like congestive heart failure, schizophrenia treatment, and paraphilic disorders. This decision is part of a broader review of medical waivers following the ban on transgender troops. It aims to ensure military personnel can perform their duties effectively.
- Country:
- United States
The Pentagon's recent rule revision means medical waivers for conditions such as heart failure, ongoing schizophrenia treatment, and paraphilic disorders will no longer be permissible. This move comes as part of a larger evaluation, aligning with the recent ban on transgender service members.
The updated guidance signed by Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth stresses the need for America's warfighters to be in optimal physical and mental condition. "Severe underlying medical conditions introduce significant risks on the battlefield," Hegseth noted, highlighting the potential threats to mission success and personnel safety.
Until now, waivers allowed individuals with certain medical conditions to enlist. However, the new rules aim to maintain high readiness levels, disallowing waivers for various conditions unless exceptional permission is granted by military branch secretaries.
(With inputs from agencies.)
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