New Regulations for Determining Fitness for Military Service: Insights from Ministry of Defence’s Healthcare Department

The Ministry of Defence is implementing new rules for determining fitness for military service, focusing not only on diseases but also on dysfunctions of the body. Oksana Sukhorukova, the head of the Ministry’s Healthcare Department, announced that the concept of limited fitness is being excluded under the updated Order No. 402.

According to Sukhorukova, individuals will now be categorized as either fit for military service or unfit. The criteria for determining fitness have been revised, taking into account the International Classification of Diseases, 10th edition, and the degree of impairment.

There are 86 groups in the new order, with more than 70 items indicating ‘unfit’, including approximately 5,000 diagnoses. Depending on the degree of impairment, individuals may be classified as fully fit or completely unfit for service.

Sukhorukova provided examples of how fitness or unfitness will be assessed, such as considering the presence of scars, surgical procedures, amputations, and vision impairments. She also emphasized that servicemen have the opportunity to report any health deterioration to their commanders, who can then refer them for treatment or a medical examination.

These new rules aim to ensure that individuals who are fit for military service are able to serve effectively, while those who are unfit receive the necessary support and care. The Ministry of Defence is committed to prioritizing the health and wellbeing of all servicemen through these updated regulations.