Being Medically Ready to Deploy

  • Published
  • By Senior Airman Natalie Atsou
  • 509th Medical Operations Squadron
WHITEMAN AIR FORCE BASE, Mo. --  Ready, set, deploy! As part of the Air Expeditionary Force, we must start thinking about what is needed to be medically ready to deploy. Being prepared and completing your requirements when due can save you a lot of time and ensure smoother out-processing.

Medical deployment clearances are conducted by the Public Health office not more than 60 days prior to your report- no-later-than-date (RNLTD). If the deploying Airman will attend training prior to their report date, they may start more than 60 days prior to the training date. There are many factors that determine if or when an individual is qualified to deploy. Medical issues, immunizations and outdated exams can hold up the completion process.

If the member is being evaluated or has unresolved medical conditions, they must see their medical provider as soon as possible. The individual's Preventive Health Assessment and dental exam must remain current throughout the duration of deployment. If a PHA is needed, contact the appointment line at (660) 563-9100 or 687-2188 to schedule an appointment. Active duty members are required to have a Human Immunodeficiency Virus test every two years; however, the HIV test must be current within 90 days of the RNLTD. The biggest hold-up for deployers is immunizations. Immunizations may be administered 120 days before the deployment date. It is important to start all immunizations as soon as the member is notified of the deployment in order to obtain all required doses.

Anthrax vaccinations are mandatory for those deploying to the U.S. Central Command area of responsibility and require two doses to be considered eligible for arrival in theater. Another required immunization is the smallpox vaccine, which is administered on Wednesdays from 7.30 to 9 a.m. Patients must complete required paperwork, which must then be evaluated and signed by a Flight Medicine physician before receiving the vaccine. Please allow a minimum of three days to complete this process. If deploying to an area with high malaria risks, make an appointment with a provider for necessary medication.

Additional Public Health requirements before clearing deployers are medications and corrective lens prescriptions. If deploying Airmen are taking doctor-prescribed medications, they must ensure their prescriptions will last for the duration of their deployment. If the duration is unknown, request a 179-day supply from a medical provider.

If the member wears eye glasses, they must have at least two pairs of glasses and gas mask inserts. Deployers may visit the optometry clinic to obtain corrective lenses. Contact lenses are not authorized for non-aircrew members in deployed locations unless approved by the gaining unit commander.

Once the member meets these requirements, Public Health conducts a record review and prepares the deployed medical record for the member to hand carry on deployment. Public Health will then conduct a country-specific medical intelligence briefing, after which the member is considered medically qualified to deploy.