How should I characterize my health issue to improve my odds of getting a medical waiver, saying I had meningitis or an allergic reaction?

Nova Winters — Thu, 10 Sep 2020 15:44:26 -0400

Okay, so back in November I was given bactrim (antibiotic) after I had taken it I ended up in serve pain and went to the ER. They thought maybe aseptic meningitis but was never able to to confirm the test. They discharged me and I ended up taking bactrim again. Ended up right back in the hospital. At this point they either think they didn't cure it fully the first time or it's the medication.
I told my recruiter (I've already done paperwork/ASVAB ect..) he sent the documents to meps and they said I wouldn't be clear for a year (which is almost up) However my recruiter said that it's only temporary atm but could still be turned away once I get to MEPS cuz appently the doc there lives to fail people (recruiters words)
So what are the odds of gettting a waiver and would I be better off leaning towards... that I had meningitis or it was an allergy? Joining the army means everything to me and I've been stressing l about it nonstop. I'm currently getting my board NREMT certification while I wait because I want to be a 68W and thought it would help

Response by SFC Kelly Fuerhoff made Sep 10 at 2020 4:13 PM

SFC Kelly Fuerhoff — Thu, 10 Sep 2020 16:13:06 -0400

No one here can guess the odds of you getting a waiver approved. Nor can we assess if you had an allergic reaction or not. If the recruiter said they have had experience with people getting turned away, that's probably the best info you'll get.

Response by SSgt Christophe Murphy made Sep 10 at 2020 4:25 PM

SSgt Christophe Murphy — Thu, 10 Sep 2020 16:25:31 -0400

Nobody here has a crystal ball to guess whether you will be passed or failed in regards to an un-diagnosed condition or possible allergy to medication. I do know that waivers are submitted for specific things and you will have a hard time submitting a waiver for a condition you might have or an allergy that might not exist. The reason you were given a 12 month delay was to see if the condition resolved itself or came back.

Response by Sgt Private RallyPoint Member made Sep 10 at 2020 5:00 PM

Sgt Private RallyPoint Member — Thu, 10 Sep 2020 17:00:42 -0400

As others have mentioned, your recruiter has the best information and no one can give you odds. Do not lean toward anything Always be truthful when answering questions or filling out forms.

Response by Nova Winters made Sep 10 at 2020 5:14 PM

Nova Winters — Thu, 10 Sep 2020 17:14:32 -0400

I know there's no real solid answer and it's mostly one a case by case basis...I was just wondering is anyone has experience with getting wavier for sulfa allergy or meningitis

Response by LtCol Robert Quinter made Sep 11 at 2020 12:29 PM

LtCol Robert Quinter — Fri, 11 Sep 2020 12:29:33 -0400

Your discussion doesn't mention a firm diagnosis of anything, so what are you looking to have waived? It's been a long time since I filled out the med forms, but I'd just indicate the diagnosis they gave you. If they didn't diagnose you with an allergy, don't claim one.