<p>Doc France I have completed my file for the USAFA and I have received two nominations to the academy. However I was medically disqualified for history of mood disorder. I have already applied for a medical waiver. I was on a small dose of prozac for mild depression for about seven months (Dec. 2003-June.2004). Does the Academy Command Surgeon grant medical waivers for mood disorders or are mental health issues generally just disqualified no matter what? What factors does the Comman Surgeon consider to decide to grant a waiver or not? I have sent in 2 letters from a doctor and therapist which state I no longer suffer from depression and that I no longer need the medication. My scores are slightly above average compared to the recent incoming classes at the academy. Thank You.</p>
<p>I am not a medical Dr or one qualified to give any advice on this subject. What I say is based solely on hearsay and experience. DoDMERB grants the waivers, not the USAFA Command Surgeon--not sure that position exists anyway. Given the recent nature of your depression and prescription, though, I'd say your chances are VERY slim.</p>
<p>Actually DODMERB does not grant waivers, they only collect the information and sends it to the specific academies and agencies which review the information. This can be verified by DODMERB on their website or you can call their phone number to confim this. The Command Surgeon must be notified in writing for a waiver review for USAFA. USMA will automatically do this if you are considered competitive. I do not know if this process if a new to Doc France but he/she is wrong in his reply.</p>
<p>I stand corrected. Thank you.</p>
<p>From the site:
U.S. AIR FORCE ACADEMY(USAFA) Under existing guidelines and regulations, the Air Force Academy Command Surgeon may grant a limited number of waivers for medical disqualification for commissioning qualification. Request for waivers or any questions regarding waivers should be addressed directly to HQ USAFA/RRS, 2304 Cadet Drive, Suite 200, USAF ACADEMY, CO 80840-5651. The United States Air Force Academy Admissions Office will arrange for your medical records to be evaluated by the Academy Command Surgeon only if you are not otherwise disqualified for admission and you would be competitive for an appointment. DoDMERB will notify you, in writing, if additional medical tests, evaluations, or consultations are required and of the results of the waiver decision.</p>