Medical Standards Frequently Asked Questions

While we make every attempt to streamline the medical standards process, this program is essential for the safety of our wildland firefighting workforce. It ensures you are medically qualified to carry out the duties required of a wildland firefighter and can help you identify an emerging health issue and seek treatment before it becomes serious.

You can find answers here to frequently asked questions about Interior's Wildland Fire Medical Standards Program.

If at any time you need one-on-one technical assistance or have questions that are not addressed here, email medical standards customer service at wlffcsr@blm.gov.

Frequently Asked Questions

What are medical standards?

Medical standards establish health requirements for wildland firefighters with arduous duties to promote firefighter safety given the strenuous, hazardous nature of the job. They are authorized through 5 CFR 339.

Who do medical standards apply to?

Medical standards apply only to wildland firefighters in positions classified as arduous. 

Are the medical standards the same as the work capacity or pack test?

No, these are two different programs. The Medical Standards Program assesses medical qualifications for arduous duty work. The work capacity test (commonly referred to as the pack test) assesses your physical ability to meet the fitness requirements of the position.

You must complete your medical qualification exam through the Medical Standards Program and receive a qualified determination BEFORE you can take the pack test.

How often are medical exams required?

When you begin a position considered arduous, you will take an initial comprehensive medical exam. Subsequent periodic exams are required every three years with an online self-certification in non-exam years.

What unique identification number do I use to input firefighters in the system?

An individual’s social security number is required for initial entry into the system. Once entered, this data will be hidden and the system will generate a new unique ID number for exam and qualification tracking.

How to I schedule my medical exam?

Your local Fire Management Officer (FMO) or human resources (HR) staff will request your exam. You will be contacted by LQTC to set up an appointment. 

Do I have to pay for the medical exam?

No. The government pays for all baseline and periodic medical exams. You should not provide payment or any personal insurance information.

Where do I go for my medical exam?

When LQTC contacts you to schedule your appointment, they will provide the location information. 

Where I get my medical exam paperwork?

You can access your medical exam paperwork through the myCority application. 

What do I need to bring to the exam?

Bring all supporting medical records that may be pertinent to your medical history. In particular, you must bring the following items to your exam:

• A valid ID with your legal name.
• Documentation of any medical conditions not previously provided.
• Documentation of any medications you are taking.
• Information from your medical provider regarding procedures or surgeries that indicates you are fully recovered and can perform the essential functions of an arduous duty wildland firefighter.

What will happen during my medical exam?

Your appointment will include all basic components of a physical exam, such as blood pressure, hearing, and vision tests; heart and lung evaluations; and basic mobility and dexterity tests.

Why do I have to drive by one clinic and go to another that is farther away?

Leidos QTC will attempt to schedule your exam at the nearest clinic, but sometimes there may not be available appointments or the closer clinic does not conduct these exams.

What happens if I can't make my appointment?

Please contact the medical examination contractor, Leidos QTC, and reschedule if you are unable to attend your appointment.

• 800-631-4120
• DOI_Support@qtcm.com

How will I know the outcome of my exam?

The first letter you’ll receive is the official determination notice indicating your medical qualification.

The second letter will be from the health care contractor summarizing your overall health. It may include suggestions for follow-up care. Please note that all costs for follow-up care are your responsibility and not covered by the government.

How long does it take to receive my qualification determination?

You should receive notification of your medication qualification determination 10 business days after the exam.

How can I request a copy of my exam?

Most of your exam information is included in the myCority application. If you need additional information, contact LQTC:

• 800-631-4120
• DOI_Support@qtcm.com

What is a risk mitigation and waiver?

A waiver can waive the medical standard with or without mitigating any risk associated with your condition(s). A risk mitigation puts a plan in place to help you reduce the risks related to your medical condition(s). The plan is developed between you, your FMO, and your HR staff.

I received a not qualified determination. What can I do?

You can ask to participate in the risk mitigation and waiver process to determine whether your not qualified determination can be changed to qualified with further information or whether a non-qualifying condition is static and stable.

Within five days of receiving a not qualified determination letter, you will receive instructions on participating in the risk mitigation and waiver process.

Visit our medical review and waiver webpage to learn more.

I want to start the risk mitigation and waiver process. What should I do?

Bring your letter to your FMO and HR staff. They will help you to file a request and navigate the process.

What if I have a pre-existing risk mitigation and waiver on file?

All existing information is sent to the reviewing medical officer. They will determine if there are changes to your medical condition that could impact your risk mitigation or waiver.

If there are no changes, and the waiver is valid, you will be deemed qualified with risk mitigation/waiver.

If there are changes in your condition(s), the reviewing medical officer may request additional information or recommend changes in the existing mitigations. Any changes would then require additional review and acceptance by both you and the agency.

Who makes the final decision in the risk mitigation and waiver process?

Your management officer, typically the local line officer, will make the final decision for all risk mitigation and waiver requests.