I'm considering enlisting after high school but I've heard the medical standards are tough. What's the reason behind such strict requirements? Does it impact a lot of potential recruits? I want to make sure I'm prepared.
The medical standards for military enlistment are strict primarily due to the physical and mental demands that come with serving in the military. The requirements are set up to ensure that those enlisting are physically capable of enduring the rigors of military training and service, and are mentally equipped to handle the stress and complex situations they might encounter.
The standards cover a broad range of conditions including vision, hearing, muscular function, cardiovascular health, and mental health, among others. If a recruit has a medical condition that may hinder their ability to perform duties, endure physical exertion, or cope with psychological rigors, it may disqualify them from service.
According to the Department of Defense, approximately two-thirds of military-age Americans (17-24 years old) are ineligible to serve in the U.S. military, largely due to physical, educational, or behavioral (such as criminal history) standards. However, medical disqualifications made up a significant portion of these disqualifications as well.
The best thing to do is to engage in regular exercises and visit your healthcare provider for a complete physical examination to identify any potential issues ahead of time. You can also contact a local recruiter to discuss specific medical standards and how they may apply to your situation.
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