Celiac Disease in the Navy Nursing Corps

[c.ayers]

I was recently accepted into a 4 year nursing program and began researching specialties. In my research I came across the Navy Nursing Corps and contacted a recruiter to receive more information. I was told that I pre-qualify based on vague questions regarding height, weight, overall health, and appearance (tattoos/piercings). Unfortunately, I have been playing phone tag with my local recruiter for the past few days so I have no more information than what I am finding online. My main concern is the fact that I have had Celiac Disease for 10 years. I know someone who received a waiver for their Celiac in the Air Force but they come from a military family. My father is an Air Force vet but that did not benefit me when speaking to an Air Force recruiter a little over a year ago. I am just wondering if the health standards are more lenient for the Nursing Corps. Any information is helpful! Thanks in advance.

[SoldierNurse22, BSN, RN]

Years ago, they were more willing to waiver for certain medical histories, but a current diagnosis of Celiac disease is a permanent disqualifier (falls under malabsorption disorders). Of course, verify with your recruiter for the final say.

[c.ayers]

I appreciate the input! I've been getting mixed answers from everyone I speak to. I read that someone going through ODS was dairy-free and gluten intolerant. She said that she just informed her superiors and was then able to purchase her own food during her time there. Others say it is disqualifying. Thanks again. I hope to speak with my recruiter tomorrow. Hopefully there will be a good outcome but I am trying to remain realistic.

[jeckrn, BSN, RN]

Recruiters do not care if you come from a military family or not, they just need numbers. As far as a waiver goes you might or might not be able to get one. Right now I would say it would be next to impossible, but in 4 years you do not know. It will all depend on numbers needed at the time. Contact a healthcare recruiter not your local enlisted recruiter, that could be why they are not getting back to you since they know you are in school.