Medical Examination Procedures Flashcards
7 cards from real MEPS practice questions. Tap to flip, then mark Knew It or Still Learning — missed cards come back until you master them.
Read the first 7 Medical Examination Procedures flashcards as text
When an applicant at MEPS receives a TDRL (Temporary Disqualification) rather than a PDQ (Permanent Disqualification), what does this mean?
Answer: The condition may resolve or be waived in the future, and the applicant can return after the disqualifying factor is addressed
A temporary disqualification means the condition is treatable or time-limited, and the applicant may re-apply once they meet medical standards or obtain a waiver.
What is the role of the MEPS CMO (Chief Medical Officer) versus the examining physician?
Answer: The examining physician conducts the hands-on exam; the CMO reviews complex cases, signs off on waivers, and makes final determinations
The examining physician or PA does the physical, while the MEPS CMO is responsible for overall medical quality, complex case review, and final authority on medical determinations.
At MEPS, if an applicant is found to have flat feet (pes planus), what factor most determines whether this is disqualifying?
Answer: Whether the condition is symptomatic and causes functional limitation or pain, not merely the structural appearance
Symptomatic pes planus that causes pain or functional limitation is disqualifying, but asymptomatic flat feet typically do not disqualify an applicant.
Which document does MEPS require to verify a prior surgical history disclosed by the applicant?
Answer: Operative reports and follow-up medical records from the treating provider
Operative reports provide the definitive record of the procedure performed, hardware placed, and outcome, which MEPS uses to assess current functional status.
A male applicant at MEPS is noted to have gynecomastia. Under what circumstance would this condition be disqualifying?
Answer: When it is severe, symptomatic, or indicative of an underlying endocrine disorder requiring ongoing treatment
Mild gynecomastia common in adolescence is usually not disqualifying, but severe cases or those linked to hormonal disorders may require further evaluation and can lead to disqualification.
During the MEPS psychiatric screening, which scenario would most likely trigger a referral for a formal psychiatric evaluation?
Answer: Disclosing a prior hospitalization for a suicide attempt within the last 5 years
A history of psychiatric hospitalization for suicidal behavior is a significant red flag requiring further evaluation, as it represents a high-risk mental health event.
What happens to the medical records collected at MEPS after an applicant successfully enlists?
Answer: They become part of the service member's permanent military health record and follow them throughout service
MEPS records are incorporated into the service member's permanent military health record (now managed through MHS GENESIS) and are accessible throughout their military career.