ARMY MEDICAL REQUIREMENTS
Why does it matter?
Being in the Army can be challenging both physically and mentally. Therefore, a history of health problems or the presence of health conditions that usually don't affect your everyday life, can mean that you're not able to join, or you might have to wait to join.
You will be sent forms asking about your medical history once you've submitted your application.
The medical team assess everyone individually, and make their decisions based on their professional opinion in keeping with prescribed army standards. These standards and guidelines are reviewed and amended regularly.
This page contains a brief sample guide to some of the conditions that might stop or delay you being able to join, however this is not an exhaustive list. You can still apply to join the army even if your medical history includes one or more of these conditions. Your application will be assessed on its own merits against medical standards for entry.
Issues
What if I'm pregnant?
Joining the Army will be delayed if you are currently pregnant or have given birth over the last 3 months.
I used to take drugs, can I still join?
If you have a history of drug dependence, you will need to provide evidence that you have abstained from the use of these drugs for at least the last 3 years prior to joining the Army. A history of occasional use of recreational drugs won't stop you from joining, but you must stop using any such drugs before you join.
After joining the Army, you must not use recreational drugs. The Army carries out random, compulsory drugs testing, and you can expect to be tested while you're in training. If you fail any of the tests, you're very likely be discharged.
