Medical Disqualifications

[rpage9394]

I was born without my thyroid and I was wondering if that is a fire dept disqualification?

[Adam_Smith]

According to the ADA, as long as you can perform the essential functions of the job you should not be disqualified for this. A fire department should have no knowledge of any medical issue until after giving you a conditional job offer. Then they can ask you any medical question they want but cannot disqualify you for it unless it inhibits your ability to perform the “essential functions of the job.” Any department with over 15 employees is subject to this rule. I think you’re alright.

[rpage9394]

Ok thank you! I was wondering because i know there is alot of disqualifications and i just finished school with my AS Fire Science Degree and I have gone to like 4 interviews and still NO luck!

[fire49]

What state are you in

Are you emt or paramedic

[BrooklynBorn]

According to the ADA, as long as you can perform the essential functions of the job you should not be disqualified for this. A fire department should have no knowledge of any medical issue until after giving you a conditional job offer. Then they can ask you any medical question they want but cannot disqualify you for it unless it inhibits your ability to perform the “essential functions of the job.” Any department with over 15 employees is subject to this rule. I think you’re alright.

Does that apply to NYC?

[rpage9394]

Im an EMT what about yourself

[Adam_Smith]

I’m no Lawyer but the Americans with Disabilities act is a federal law and thus applying to all states.

[rpage9394]

Good at least someone stands up for us with disabilities!

[paulLepore]

The advice the second poster gives is inaccurate. Fire departments can and will disqualify people for a myriad of different reasons.

He is correct in stating that the fire department will not know about it until they perform a medical examination.

As far as your specific condition goes, I cannot give advice as I do not unnderstand the ramifications of not having a thyroid.

Please let me be clear, though, fire departments disqualify candidates for medical reasons regularly, eventhough they may have passed the physical agility tests......

Be aware of free advice that you receive on the internet. It's worth exactly what you paid for it.

The best thing you can do is to check with your personal physician and see what he or she has to say about it. If he is convinced it will not be an issue, I would encourage you to get a letter from him stating that you are able to perform the duties and responsibilities of a firefighter. IF you fail the initial medical exam you will be prepared to hand over the letter from your doctor.

You can often overturn (not always) the City doctor with a letter from a specialist. You must be prepared beforehand or you may miss out on your opportunity as they will move on to the next candidate. By the time you get a letter your window may be closed. Prepare beforehand.

Best of luck to you!

[powerhourcoug]

Many departments establish NFPA 1582, their state administrative codes, and their own department standards as a guideline.

Regardless of medical standards, for the most part, it is up to the department to decide whether to disqualify on a medical basis.

I work with several people who are color-blind and several who have asthma. Per our state administrative code for firefighters, both conditions could be disqualifying. Our chief does what he wants, and takes chances on people with character.

They were all hired, and have led long, productive careers in which they have made a positive impact on our department, with no significant medical issues.

Conversely, I have a friend who was recently DQ'd for childhood asthma in his pre-hire medical with a local urban department. He was a college football player and an incredible athlete with no respiratory issues for 10+ years (treated by medication). This department didn't take any chances - and it will be their loss.

The governance sets the tone...but ultimately the departments decide. Some departments will take a chance, and others err on the side of fear based hiring practices. You'll have to do your homework and stake it out on your own to ultimately find out.

[paulLepore]

Well said Powerhourcoug...........

[congofiremedic]

Medical Disqualification

Can you please list some of the most common medical disqualifications to give an idea? Thanks.