Medical Review and Waiver Process

In some cases, the medical exam will reveal a condition that could preclude you from safely performing essential firefighting functions. Asthma, high blood pressure, recent surgeries, or chronic conditions are some examples.

For many medical conditions, you will be asked to provide additional information for clarification.

You may receive a recommendation for follow-up doctor visits or tests. You are responsible for any costs associated with obtaining additional documentation, completing follow-up visits, or taking additional medical tests related to a not qualified determination. 

A wildland firefighter or applicant who receives a not qualified (static and stable) determination from their medical exam can ask to participate in the risk mitigation and waiver process.

Medical Review Process 

The medical review process helps to determine whether a not qualified determination can be changed to qualified with further information or whether a non-qualifying condition is static and stable.

The medical review process begins when additional medical documentation is provided to address a non-qualifying condition. The documentation can be provided at any time through a wildland firefighter customer service representative. 

For assistance with the medical review process, please contact us at wlffcsr@blm.gov.

Risk Mitigation and Waiver Process

If you receive a not qualified (static and stable) determination from your medical exam, you cannot complete the work capacity test or participate in arduous duties.

Within five days of receiving a not qualified determination letter, you will receive instructions from your agency for participating in the risk mitigation and waiver process. This interactive risk assessment and agency review is facilitated by your Fire Management Officer (FMO).

It is up to you to ask to participate in the risk mitigation and waiver process. You should work with your FMO and human resource staff to file a request. If approved, you will be responsible for taking the agreed upon medical mitigation measures while fighting fire. 

The risk mitigation and waiver process includes two levels of appeal.

  • Photo showing medical support on the 2020 Tadpole Fire.
    During the first-level risk mitigation and waiver process, your Fire Management Officer and human resource staff will conduct a risk assessment and determine if the risk associated with your non-qualifying medical condition can be mitigated.
    Level 1 Risk Mitigation and Waiver Process

    Level 1 Risk Mitigation and Waiver Process

  • Wildland firefighter filling out form.
    The second-level risk mitigation and waiver process is for those who did not receive an acceptable risk decision and are seeking a second review. For the second-level review, the human resources staff will forward their file to the Medical Standards Program. The Department of the Interior Medical Review Board will be convened to review the file and offer a recommendation.
    Level 2 Risk Mitigation and Waiver Process

    Level 2 Risk Mitigation and Waiver Process