Does hearing loss (can't hear low tones) disqualify someone from reenlisting?

SGT Private RallyPoint Member — Tue, 10 Mar 2020 12:17:46 -0400

I'm in the IRR and I am trying to re enlist in the active duty side. I have a permanent profile (number 3) on my right ear. I had a surgery last 2018 to make my ear is safe. I really wanted to go active duty but I waited for this time (IRR) to do it but it's just heartbreaking that my chance is so slim right now. Any advise please. Thank you so much..

Response by LTC Private RallyPoint Member made Mar 10 at 2020 1:16 PM

LTC Private RallyPoint Member — Tue, 10 Mar 2020 13:16:41 -0400

Unfortunately, with a P3 hearing profile you are non-deployable until your case is reviewed by a MEB or MMRB. You really need to talk to a recruiter. the devil is in the details and your chances of getting back on AD depend on many variables.

Response by SFC Private RallyPoint Member made Mar 10 at 2020 1:22 PM

SFC Private RallyPoint Member — Tue, 10 Mar 2020 13:22:06 -0400

You're not reenlisting, you're enlisting as prior service. That's an important distinction because the medical prerequisites for Accession is higher than that for reenlisting. If you were currently on AD you could reenlist with a P3 for hearing, but trying to come in onto Active duty the Army won't accept you. If your surgery improved your hearing then you might have a chance

Response by SSgt Private RallyPoint Member made Mar 10 at 2020 2:50 PM

SSgt Private RallyPoint Member — Tue, 10 Mar 2020 14:50:10 -0400

My tinnitus/mild hearing loss only precluded me from certain AFSCs (unfortunately, my prior AFSC was one of those barred for me to go back in to). Basically, I could not go back in to an AFSC that had to be around flight lines for any extended period of time.
I was able to get into GeoINT, though. I think I'll like that just fine :)

You should be good, Sarn't

Response by CWO3 Private RallyPoint Member made Mar 10 at 2020 4:44 PM

CWO3 Private RallyPoint Member — Tue, 10 Mar 2020 16:44:42 -0400

Tinnitus is number 1 Vet disability, so timing is everything. Maybe. Research policy.