DD Form 2808 is a form used by the Department of Defense to document the results of a medical examination. The exam is typically performed at a military entrance processing station (MEPS) before someone enters the Armed Forces or if they are already a member and need to demonstrate that they are physically fit to perform their duties. The form includes a complete health assessment, physician evaluation, laboratory tests, and other pertinent information. Providing this information is voluntary, but withholding it may prevent someone from entering the military or cause them to be placed on non-deployable status if they are already a member.
The DD 2808 form will also include:
- The date of the exam.
- The name and personal information of the party being examined.
- Any evaluations that were made during the examination.
These may include a complete physical, an eye exam, a hearing exam, and any other relevant lab tests. The DD 2808 form will also include any medical restrictions that the examiner has determined are not conducive to military service.
How to File DD Form 2808?
To file DD Form 2808, follow these steps:
- Start by reading the instructions carefully.
- Provide accurate information, including your personal details, medical history, and immunizations.
- Answer all questions honestly, and disclose any behavioral health or substance abuse issues.
- Provide an audiogram and HIV lab work, if applicable.
- Ensure you’re up to date with your preventive healthcare requirements, such as dental clearance and a PHA.
- Sign and date the form.
In order to complete this form, the individual must visit their PCM and ensure that all preventive medicine requirements (cholesterol, mammogram, immunizations) are up to date. They must also have an audiogram and HIV lab work completed, as well as a dental clearance. Lastly, they must have their DoD SHPE and DD Form 2808 completed. If they were found unfit for duty through the Disability Evaluation System process, their Separation and Retirement Physical may already include these exams.
Generally, a DD Form 2808 is required by the Department of Defense before enlistment into the Armed Forces or when an individual must undergo a physical examination for military purposes. This report includes comprehensive information about an individual’s medical condition and can be used to determine if they are able to perform the duties of a member of the military.
What to Consider When Filing Out a DD Form 2808?
In addition to a completed NSW/SO physical with UMO signature and PHA with IMR, the applicant must also have an audiogram completed on a walk-in basis at the Audiology Clinic, Sunrise, Floor 2, Reception, and HIV lab work that is up to date. They must also complete a dental clearance. They should go to their current dental office and have a provider sign off on box 43 of the DD Form 2808. They must also complete any other Individual Medical Readiness Requirements, including a chest x-ray.
The SCO must verify that the IMS meets the specific health prerequisites for the education/training he/she is scheduled to attend (documentation provided by the training provider). A statement that the IMS is free from communicable diseases of public health significance must be included in block 73 of the DD Form 2808.
The SCO must ensure that an authorized dependent accompanying an IMS on a training trip has documented his/her DD Forms 2808 and 2807-1 by a licensed, practicing medical authority from a list of qualified practitioners maintained by the U.S. Embassy or a similar certification. The SCO must obtain a release of information from the authorized dependent and review available options to ensure compliance with DSCA policy on healthcare coverage requirements and coordination of those options with the host nation and IMS.