- ARMY PHYSICAL PROFILE; TEMPORARY & PERMANENT; PULHES September 17 2014, 1 Comment

7–3. Physical profile serial system

The physical profile serial system is based primarily upon the function of body systems and their relation to military duties. The functions of the various organs, systems, and integral parts of the body are considered. Since the analysis of the individual’s medical, physical, and mental status plays an important role in assignment and welfare, not only must the functional grading be executed with great care, but clear and accurate descriptions of medical, physical, and mental deviations from normal are essential.

In developing the system, the functions have been considered under six factors designated “P–U–L–H–E–S.” Four numerical designations are used to reflect different levels of functional capacity. The basic purpose of the physical profile serial is to provide an index to overall functional capacity. Therefore, the functional capacity of a particular organ or system of the body, RATHER THAN THE DEFECT PER SE, will be evaluated in determining the numerical designation 1, 2, 3, or 4.

 The factors to be considered are as follows:

(1) P—Physical capacity or stamina. This factor, general physical capacity, normally includes conditions of the heart; respiratory system; gastrointestinal system, genitourinary system; nervous system; allergic, endocrine, metabolic and nutritional diseases; diseases of the blood and blood forming tissues; dental conditions; diseases of the breast, and other organic defects and diseases that do not fall under other specific factors of the system.

(2) U—Upper extremities. This factor concerns the hands, arms, shoulder girdle, and upper spine (cervical, thoracic, and upper lumbar) in regard to strength, range of motion, and general efficiency.

(3) L—Lower extremities. This factor concerns the feet, legs, pelvic girdle, lower back musculature and lower spine (lower lumbar and sacral) in regard to strength, range of motion, and general efficiency.

(4) H—Hearing and ears. This factor concerns auditory acuity and disease and defects of the ear.

(5) E—Eyes. This factor concerns visual acuity and diseases and defects of the eye.

(6) S—Psychiatric. This factor concerns personality, emotional stability, and psychiatric diseases.

Four numerical designations are assigned for evaluating the individual’s functional capacity in each of the six factors. Guidance for assigning numerical designators is contained in table 7–1. The numerical designator is not an automatic indicator of “deployability” or assignment restrictions, or referral to an MEB. The conditions listed in chapter 3 and the Soldier’s functional limitations, rather than the numerical designator of the profile, will be factors for MEB processing.

(1) An individual having a numerical designation of “1” under all factors is considered to possess a high level of

medical fitness.

(2) A physical profile designator of “2” under any or all factors indicates that an individual possesses some medical

condition or physical defect that may require some activity limitations.

(3) A profile containing one or more numerical designators of “3” signifies that the individual has one or more

medical conditions or physical defects that may require significant limitations. The individual should receive assignments

commensurate with his or her physical capability for military duty.

(4) A profile serial containing one or more numerical designators of “4” indicates that the individual has one or

more medical conditions or physical defects of such severity that performance of military duty must be drastically

limited.

1. Anatomical defects or pathological conditions will not of themselves form the sole basis for recommending

assignment or duty limitations. While these conditions must be given consideration when accomplishing the profile, the

prognosis and the possibility of further aggravation must also be considered. In this respect, profiling officers must

consider the effect of their recommendations upon the Soldier’s ability to perform duty. Profiles must be realistic. All

profiles and assignment limitations must be specific, and written in lay terms. If the commander has questions about a

profile or is unable to use the Soldier within the profile limitations, the procedures in paragraph 7–12 will apply.

(1) Determination of individual assignment or duties to be performed is a commander’s decision. Limitations such

AR 40–501 • 14 December 2007/RAR 23 August 2010 75

as “no field duty,” or “no overseas duty,” are not proper medical recommendations. (However, they are included as

administrative guidelines in pregnancy profiles.) Profiling officers will provide enough information regarding the

Soldier’s physical limitations to enable the nonmedical commander and AHRC to make a determination on individual

assignments or duties. The profiling officer is responsible for entering the correct administrative code from table 7-2

into Item 2 of the DA Form 3349.

(2) It is the responsibility of the commander or personnel management officer to determine proper assignment and

duty, based upon knowledge of the Soldier’s profile, assignment limitations, and the duties of their grade and MOS.

(3) The commander has the final decision on the deployment of Soldiers in his/her unit. When medical providers

and commanders disagree on the medical readiness status of a Soldier, the decision will be raised to the first general

officer in the Soldier’s chain of command, who will review both medical and commander recommendations and make

the final decision whether to deploy the Soldier.

(4) Table 7–1 contains the physical profile functional capacity guide.

(5) See TB MED 287 for profiling Soldiers with pseudofolliculitis.

7–4. Temporary vs. permanent profiles

1. Electronic requirements. All temporary profiles greater than 30 days and all permanent profiles must be completed

electronically. There are two ways to access the electronic profile; one through AHLTA (Version 3.3.2), and one

through MODS.

(1) AHLTA. Providers first sign into AHLTA and then select the “Medical Readiness” link in AHLTA. From the

Medical Readiness portal, the provider then selects the link for the e-Profile.

(2) MODS. Providers can also access the e-Profile application at: https://apps.mods.army.mil.

Note. If the electronic systems are unavailable, the provider will issue a temporary profile in paper form for 30 days duration until

the profile can be entered into e-Profile.

1. Permanent profiles. A profile is considered permanent unless a modifier of “T” (temporary) is added. A

permanent profile may only be awarded or changed by the authority designated in paragraph 7–6, below. All

permanent “3” and “4” profiles, for Soldiers on active duty, will be reviewed by an MEB physician or physician

approval authority. An MEB physician is an MTF dedicated subject matter expert trained to perform disability

evaluations per guidelines established in DODI 1332.38 (see AR 40–400 for MEB process). The MEB physician will

assist the MTF commander in educating profiling officers on current physical profiling regulation and policy guidance.

(1) If the profile is permanent, the profiling officer must assess if the Soldier meets the medical retention standards

of chapter 3. Those Soldiers on active duty who do not meet the medical retention standards must be referred to an

MEB as per chapter 3. (See paras 9–10 and 10–25, respectively, for disposition of USAR and ARNG Soldiers not on

active duty who do not meet medical retention standards.)

(2) Soldiers who have one or more condition(s) that do not meet medical retention standards are referred to a MEB /

PEB after attaining the Medical Retention Determination Point (MRDP). The MRDP is when the Soldier’s progress

appears to have medically stabilized; the course of further recovery is relatively predictable; and where it can be

reasonably determined that the Soldier is most likely not capable of performing the duties required of his MOS, grade,

or rank. This MRDP and referral to a MEB/PEB will be made within 1 year of being diagnosed with a medical

condition(s) that does not appear to meet medical retention standards, but the referral may be earlier if the medical

provider determines that the Soldier will not be capable of returning to duty within 1 year. The MEB physician or

physician approval authority will review all MEB referrals to insure that MRDP has been achieved prior to initiating a

medical evaluation board; coordinate inappropriate MEB referrals back through the profiling officer for appropriate

disposition; and assist physician approving authorities in reconciling profiling officer’s questions and concerns about

MRDP timing and MMRB versus MEB referrals. The MEB physician or physician approval authority will review all

profiles to confirm that the MRDP has been reached before obtaining the approving authority signature.

(3) Those Soldiers (active duty and USAR/ARNG) who meet retention standards but have at least a 3 or 4 PULHES

serial will be referred to a Medical MOS Retention Board (MMRB) in accordance with AR 600–60, unless waived by

the MMRB convening authority.

(4) Permanent profiles may be amended (following the correct procedure) at any time if clinically indicated and will

automatically be reviewed and verified by the privileged provider at the time of a Soldier’s periodic health assessment

or other medical examination.

(5) The Soldier’s commander may also request a review of a permanent profile, in accordance with paragraph

7–12b.

1. Temporary profiles. Soldiers receiving medical or surgical care or recovering from illness, injury, or surgery, will

be managed with temporary physical profiles until they reach the point in their evaluation, recovery, or rehabilitation

where the profiling officer determines that MRDP has been achieved but no longer than 12 months. A temporary

profile is given if the condition is considered temporary, the correction or treatment of the condition is medically

advisable, and correction usually will result in a higher physical capacity. Soldiers on active duty and RC Soldiers not

on active duty with a temporary profile will be medically evaluated at least once every 3 months at which time the

profile may be extended for a maximum of 6 months from the initial profile start date by the profiling officer.

76 AR 40–501 • 14 December 2007/RAR 23 August 2010

(1) Temporary profiles exceeding 6 months duration, for the same medical condition, will be referred to a specialist

(for that medical condition) for management and consideration for one of the following actions:

(a) Continuation of a temporary profile for a maximum of 12 months from the initial profile start date;

(b) Change the temporary profile to a permanent profile;

(c) Determination of whether the Soldier meets the medical retention standards of chapter 3 and, if not, referral to an

MEB.

(2) The profiling officer must review previous profiles before making a decision to extend a temporary profile and

refer the Soldier to a medical specialist for management if the temporary profile has been in effect for 6 months. Any

extension of a temporary profile must be recorded on DA Form 3349, and if renewed, item 8 on the DA Form 3349

will contain the following statement: "This temporary profile is an extension of a temporary profile first issued on

(date)."

(3) Temporary profiles will specify an expiration date. If no date is specified, the profile will automatically expire at

the end of 30 days from issuance of the profile. In no case will Soldiers carry a temporary profile that has been

extended for more than 12 months. If a profile is needed beyond the 12 months, the temporary profile will be changed

to a permanent profile. Exceptions to the 12-month temporary physical profile restriction must be approved by the

medical treatment facility (MTF) commander or their designated senior physician approval authority (often the deputy

commander for clinical services).

7–5. Representative profile serial and codes

To facilitate the assignment of individuals after they have been given a physical profile serial and for statistical

purposes, code designations have been adopted to represent certain combinations of physical limitations or assignment

guidance (see table 7–2, below). The alphabetical coding system will be recorded on the DA Form 3349, item 2 and

personnel qualifications records. Up to three different codes can be listed in item 2. This coding system will not be

used on medical records to identify limitations. The numerical designations under each profile factor, PULHES, are

given in table 7–1, below.

7–6. Profiling officer and approving authority

1. Profiling officers. Commanders of Army MTFs are authorized to designate one or more physicians, dentists,

optometrists, podiatrists, audiologists, nurse practitioners, nurse midwives, licensed clinical psychologists, and physician

assistants as profiling officers. The commander will assure that those designated are thoroughly familiar with the

contents of this regulation. Profiling officer limitations are as follows:

(1) Physicians. No limitations except for temporary profiles that exceed 6 months that require referral to a specialist

(see para 7-4c(1)).

(2) Dentists, optometrists, physical therapists, chiropractors, and occupational therapists. No limitation within their

specialty for awarding temporary or permanent numerical designators “1” and “2.” A temporary numerical designator

“3” may be awarded for a period not to exceed 90 days. Any extension beyond 90 days must be signed by a physician.

(See para 7–8.)

(3) Audiologists. No limitation within their specialty for awarding permanent numerical designators “1,” “2,” “3,” or

“4” in cases of sensorineural hearing loss, if retrocochlear lesion has been ruled out. Changing from or to a permanent

numerical designator “3” or “4” requires the co-signature of a physician approving authority (see para 7–8).

(4) Physician assistants, nurse midwives, nurse practitioners, and licensed clinical psychologists. Limited to awarding

temporary numerical designators “2,” “3,” and “4” for a period not to exceed 90 days. Any extension of a

temporary profile beyond 90 days must be signed by a physician, except when the provisions of paragraph 7–9 apply.

However, physician assistants with AOC 65DM1 certified in orthopedics have no limitations in awarding temporary

orthopedic profiles or permanent profiles with a numerical designator of “1” or “2.” Physician assistants, nurse

midwives, nurse practitioners, and licensed clinical psychologists may award permanent profiles of “2”, “3,” or “4”

provided the profile is signed by the physician approving authority.

(5) Podiatrists. No limitations within their specialty for awarding temporary or permanent profiles with a numerical

designator of “1” or “2.” Podiatrists may award permanent profiles of “3” or “4” providing the profile is signed by a

physician approving authority.

(6) MEPS physicians, physician assistants, and nurse practitioners. They will also be designated as profiling

officers. (See para 7–7b.)

(7) Other DOD physicians. In those instances where a Soldier does not have access to an Army MTF, but is

assigned to a location with another Department of Defense medical facility (Navy, Air Force), a physician from another

Service can be a profiling officer, if designated by the commander.

(8) AD TRICARE Prime Remote Soldiers, Selected Reserve (TPU, AGR, IMA) and ARNG Soldiers. These Soldiers

may have profiles completed via the current agencies contracted to provide these medical services.

1. Approving authority. Commanders of Army MTFs are authorized to designate or delegate one or more physicians

as approving authorities. The commander will assure that those designated are thoroughly familiar with the contents of

AR 40–501 • 14 December 2007/RAR 23 August 2010 77

this regulation. The approving authority must be a physician. Permanent “3” or “4” physical profiles require an

approving authority signature.

7–7. Recording and reporting of initial physical profile

1. Individuals accepted for initial appointment, enlistment, or induction in peacetime normally will be given a

numerical designator “1” or “2” physical profile in accordance with the instructions contained in this regulation. Initial

physical profiles will be recorded on DD Form 2808 by the medical profiling officer at the time of the initial

appointment, enlistment, or induction medical examination.

1. The initial physical profile serial will be entered on DD Form 2808 and also recorded on DD Forms 1966

(Record of Military Processing—Armed Forces of the United States), in the appropriate spaces. When the modifier “T”

is entered on the profile serial, or in those exceptional cases where the numerical designator “3” is used on initial entry,

a brief, nontechnical description of the defect will be recorded in the “Summary of Defects” section on the DD Form

2808, in addition to the exact diagnosis. All physical, geographic, or climatic area limitations applicable to the defect

will also be entered in that section. If sufficient room for a full explanation is not available in that section, proper

reference will be made in that section number and an additional sheet of paper attached. It is not uncommon for the

MEPS to assign a profile with the numerical designator of “3” or “0” pending a medical waiver review of a

disqualifying condition. This is for their administrative purposes only. If the individual receives a medical waiver, the

waiver documentation completed by the waiver authority should indicate the appropriate profile in accordance with

table 7–1.

7–8. Profiling reviews and approvals

1. Permanent “3” or “4” profiles require the signatures of 2 profiling officers, one of which is a physician approving

authority (unless the provisions of 7–8f apply). (Permanent profiles of “3” or “4” for the Individual Ready Reserve are

valid with only one signature if signed by the AHRC Surgeon or his/her designee.) (ANG requires the signatures of 2

profiling officers for all permanent profiles to include permanent “1” or “2.” See para 10-12). Temporary or permanent

profiles of “1” or “2” require the signature of one profiling officer. See paragraph 7–6 to determine who is authorized

to sign profiles.

1. Situations that require a mandatory review of an existing physical profile include—

(1) Return to duty of a Soldier hospitalized. The attending physician will ensure that the patient has the correct

physical profile, assignment limitations(s), and medical followup instructions, as appropriate.

(2) When directed by the appointing authority in cases of a problematical or controversial nature requiring temporary

revision of profile.

(3) At the time of the periodic health assessment or other medical examination.

(4) Upon request of the unit commander.

(5) On request of a PEB.

(6) When a permanent “3” or “4” profile is changed to a permanent “1” or “2” the change requires the signatures of

2 profiling officers, one of which is a physician approving authority (unless the provisions of 7–8f apply).

1. A temporary revision of profile will be completed when, in the opinion of the profiling officer, the functional

capacity of the individual has changed to such an extent that it temporarily alters the individual’s ability to perform

duty. Temporary profiles written on DA Form 3349 will not exceed 3 months except as provided for in paragraphs

7–8d and 7–9. Temporary profiles written on DD Form 689 (Individual Sick Slip) will not exceed 30 days.

1. Tuberculous patients returned to a duty status who require anti-tuberculous chemotherapy following hospitalization

will be given a temporary “2” profile under the P factor of the physical profile for a period of 1 year with

recommendation that the Soldier be placed on duty at a fixed installation and will be provided the required medical

supervision for a period of 1 year.

1. The physical profile in controversial or equivocal cases may be verified or revised by the hospital commander or

command surgeon.

1. Physical profiles for Reserve Soldiers not on active duty and for those Soldiers activated on orders for greater than

30 days in the Ready Reserve (ARNG/AR), Standby Reserve (AR), and Retired Reserve (AR), may be accomplished

by the U.S. Army Regional Support Command (RSC) surgeons, division staff surgeons, Active Army medical facility

profiling officers (Reserve Soldiers on orders for 30 days or greater only), USAR/ARNG contracted agencies profiling

officers, the U.S. Army Reserve (USARC) command surgeon and the AHRC command surgeon or their designees

(Ready Reserve only). For ARNG/ARNGUS Soldiers not on active duty, profiles will be accomplished by State

ARNG/ARNGUS providers. The respective State surgeons (if physician) or their designated physician alternate can be

the approving authority for permanent "3" or "4" profiles. The NGB chief surgeon is also an ARNG approval authority

for all ARNG Soldiers. The ARNG division surgeons may be designated as approval authority, but would require

delegation by each concerned State or Territory State surgeon. Approval authorities for the Army Reserve are the

USARC command surgeon and the Regional Support Command surgeons. The USAR operational and functional

command surgeons and division surgeons that function as command surgeons may be delegated profile-approving

authority by the USARC command surgeon.

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1. Individuals who were found unfit by a PEB but COAD used to be assigned a code “V” on their physical profile

code. The code “V” is no longer used for this purpose but rather to identify Soldiers with restrictions on deployment.

An “X” is now used to identify individuals who were found unfit by a PEB but COAD or COAR.

1. MEB physicians must ensure that all physical profile and assignment limitations are fully recorded on one DA

Form 3349. When the Soldier is referred to a PEB, a copy of the consolidated DA Form 3349 will be forwarded to the

PEB with the MEB proceeding, with distribution of the form as indicated in paragraph 7-11b, below. On the

consolidated DA Form 3349, the MEB physician may be the profiling officer (1st signature). Cooperation between the

MEB physician, PEB liaison officers, and the PEB is essential when additional medical information or profile

reconsideration is requested from the MTF by the PEB. The limitations described on the profile form may affect the

decision of fitness by the PEB.

1. Table 7–1 will be used when determining the numerical designator of the PULHES factors. (For example, a

Soldier will not be given a permanent “3” or “4” solely on the basis of a referral to a PEB.)

7–9. Profiling pregnant Soldiers

1. Intent. The intent of these provisions is to protect the fetus while ensuring productive use of the Soldier. Common

sense, good judgement, and cooperation must prevail between policy, Soldier, and Soldier’s commander to ensure a

viable program. This profile has been revised from the previous profile published in the 1995 edition of this regulation.

This profile guidance has been revised and includes mandating an occupational health interview to assess risks to the

Soldier and fetus and adding additional restrictions to reduce exposure to solvents, lead, and fuels that may be

associated with adverse pregnancy outcomes.

1. Responsibilities.

(1) Soldier. The Soldier will seek medical confirmation of pregnancy and will comply with the instructions of

medical personnel and the individual’s unit commander.

(2) Medical personnel. A privileged provider (physician, nurse midwife/practitioner or physician assistant) will

confirm pregnancy and once confirmed will initiate prenatal care of the Soldier and issue a physical profile. Nurse

midwives, nurse practitioners, and physician assistants are authorized to issue routine or standard pregnancy profiles for

the duration of the pregnancy. An occupational history will be taken at the first visit to assess potential exposures

related to the Soldier’s specific MOS. This history is ideally taken by the occupational medicine physician or nurse.

However, if this is not feasible, the profiling officer must complete the occupational history. After review of the

occupational history, the profiling officer (physician, nurse midwife/practitioner, or physician assistant), in conjunction

with the occupational health clinic as needed, will determine whether any additional occupational exposures, other than

those indicated in the paragraphs below, should be avoided for the remainder of the pregnancy. Examples include but

are not limited to hazardous chemicals, ionizing radiation, and excessive vibration. If the occupational history or

industrial hygiene sampling data indicate significant exposure to physical, chemical, or biological hazards, then the

profile will be revised to restrict exposure from these workplace hazards.

(3) Unit commander. The commander will counsel all female Soldiers as required by AR 600–8–24 or AR 635–200.

The unit commander will consult with medical personnel as required. This includes establishing liaison with the

occupational health clinic and requesting site visits by the occupational health personnel if necessary to assess any

work place hazards.

1. Physical profiles.

(1) Profiles will be issued for the duration of the pregnancy. The MTF will ensure that the unit commander is

provided a copy of the profile, and advise the unit commander as required. Upon termination of pregnancy, a new

profile will be issued reflecting revised profile information. Physical profiles will be issued as follows:

(2) Under factor “P” of the physical profile, indicate “T–3.”

(3) List diagnosis as “pregnancy, estimated delivery date.”

1. Limitations. Unless superceded by an occupational health assessment, the standard pregnancy profile, DA Form

3349, will indicate the following limitations:

(1) Except under unusual circumstances, the Soldier should not be reassigned to overseas commands until pregnancy

is terminated. (See AR 614–30 for waiver provisions and for criteria curtailing OCONUS tours.) She may be assigned

within CONUS. Medical clearance must be obtained prior to any reassignment.

(2) The Soldier will not receive an assignment to duties where nausea, easy fatigue, or sudden lightheadedness

would be hazardous to the Soldier, or others, to include all aviation duty, Classes 1/2/3. (However, there are specific

provisions in para 4–13c that allow the aircrew member to request and be granted permission to remain on flight status.

ATC personnel may continue ATC duties with approval of the flight surgeon, obstetrician, and ATC supervisor.)

(3) Restrict exposures to military fuels. Pregnant Soldiers must be restricted from assignments involving frequent or

routine exposures to fuel vapors or skin exposure to spilled fuel such as fuel handling or otherwise filling military

vehicles with fuels such as mogas, JP8, and JP4.

(4) No weapons training in indoor firing ranges due to airborne lead concentrations and bore gas emissions. Firing

of weapons is permitted at outdoor sites. (See (11) below, for other weapons training restrictions.) No exposure to

AR 40–501 • 14 December 2007/RAR 23 August 2010 79

organic solvent vapors above permissible levels. (For example, work in ARMS room is permitted if solvents are

restricted to 1999 MIL–PRF–680, degreasing solvent.)

(5) No work in the motor pool involving painting, welding, soldering, grinding, and sanding on metal, parts

washing, or other duties where the Soldier is routinely exposed to carbon monoxide, diesel exhaust, hazardous

chemicals, paints, organic solvent vapors, or metal dusts and fumes (for example, motor vehicle mechanics). It does not

apply to pregnant Soldiers who perform preventive maintenance checks and services (PMCS) on military vehicles

using impermeable gloves and coveralls, nor does it apply to Soldiers who do work in areas adjacent to the motor pool

bay (for example, administrative offices) if the work site is adequately ventilated and industrial hygiene sampling

shows carbon monoxide, benzene, organic solvent vapors, metal dusts and fumes do not pose a hazard to pregnant

Soldiers. (See (11), below, for PMCS restrictions at 20 weeks of pregnancy.)

(6) The Soldier must avoid excessive vibrations. Excessive vibrations occur in larger ground vehicles (greater than 1

1/4 ton) when the vehicle is driven on unpaved surfaces.

(7) Upon the diagnosis of pregnancy, the Soldier is exempt from regular unit physical fitness training and APFT

testing/weight standards for the duration of the pregnancy and 180 days past pregnancy termination. After receiving

medical clearance from their health care provider to participate in physical training, commanders will enroll Soldiers

who are pregnant or postpartum to take part in the Army Pregnancy/Postpartum Physical Training (PPPT) program, an

element of the Army Physical Fitness Training Program, in accordance with AR 350–1, Army Training and Education.

The PPPT Program is designed to maintain health and fitness levels of pregnant Soldiers, and successfully integrate

postpartum Soldiers back into unit physical fitness training programs with emphasis on achieving the APFT standards

in accordance with guidance provided in the Army Physical Fitness Training Program, and meeting height/weight

standards in accordance with guidance provided in the Army Weight Control Program. Pregnant and postpartum

Soldiers must be cleared by their health care provider prior to participating in physical fitness training. Once pregnancy

has been confirmed, the Soldier is exempt from wearing load bearing equipment (LBE) to include the web belt,

individual body armor (IBA) and/or any other additional equipment. Wearing of individual body armor and/or any

other additional equipment is not recommended and must be avoided after 14 weeks gestation.

(8) The Soldier is exempt from all immunizations except influenza and tetanus-diphtheria and from exposure to all

fetotoxic chemicals noted on the occupational history form. The Soldier is exempt from exposure to chemical warfare

and riot control agents (for example, nuclear, biological, and chemical training) and wearing MOPP gear at any time.

(9) The Soldier may work shifts.

(10) The Soldier must not climb or work on ladders or scaffolding.

(11) At 20 weeks of pregnancy, the Soldier is exempt from standing at parade rest or attention for longer than 15

minutes. The Soldier is exempt from participating in swimming qualifications, drown proofing, field duty, and weapons

training. The Soldier must not ride in, perform PMCS on, or drive in vehicles larger than light medium tactical vehicles

due to concerns regarding balance and possible hazards from falls.

(12) At 28 weeks of pregnancy, the Soldier must be provided a 15-minute rest period every 2 hours. Her workweek

should not exceed 40 hours and the Soldier must not work more than 8 hours in any 1 day. The 8-hour work day does

include one hour for physical training (PT) and the hours worked after reporting to work or work call formation, but

does not include the PT hygiene time and travel time to and from PT.

1. Performance of duty. A woman who is experiencing a normal pregnancy may continue to perform military duty

until delivery. Only those women experiencing unusual and complicated problems (for example, pregnancy-induced

hypertension) will be excused from all duty, in which case they may be hospitalized or placed sick in quarters. Medical

personnel will assist unit commanders in determining duties.

1. Sick in quarters. A pregnant Soldier will not be placed sick in quarters solely on the basis of her pregnancy unless

there are complications present that would preclude any type of duty performance.

7–10. Postpartum profiles

1. Convalescent leave (as prescribed by AR 600–8–10) after delivery will be for a period determined by the

attending physician. This will normally be for 42 days following normal pregnancy and delivery.

1. Convalescent leave after a termination of pregnancy (for example, miscarriage) will be determined on an

individual basis by the attending physician.

1. Prior to commencing convalescent leave, postpartum Soldiers will be issued a postpartum profile. The temporary

profile will be for 45 days. It begins on the day of child birth or termination of pregnancy and will allow PT at the

Soldier’s own pace. Soldiers are encouraged to use the AT-Home component of the ARMY PPPT Program while on

convalescent leave. If a Soldier decides to return early from convalescent leave, the temporary profile remains in effect

for the entire 45 days.

1. Soldiers will receive clearance from the profiling officer to return to full duty.
2. Postpartum (any pregnancy that lasts 20 weeks and beyond) Soldiers, in accordance with DODD 1308.1, are

exempt from the APFT and from record weigh-in for 180 days following termination of pregnancy. After receiving

clearance from their health care provider to resume physical fitness training, postpartum Soldiers will take part in the

postpartum physical fitness training element of the Army. Postpartum Soldiers must receive clearance from their health

80 AR 40–501 • 14 December 2007/RAR 23 August 2010

care provider prior to returning to regular unit physical fitness training if it is before 180 days following pregnancy

termination. After receiving clearance from their physician to resume physical training, they are expected to use the

time in preparation for the APFT.

1. The above guidance will only be modified if, upon evaluation of a physician, it has been determined the

postpartum Soldier requires a more restrictive or longer profile because of complicated or unusual medical problems.

7–11. Preparation, approval, and disposition of DA Form 3349

9. Preparation of DA Form 3349.

(1) The DA Form 3349 will be used to record both permanent profiles and temporary profiles. The DA Form 689

(Individual Sick Slip) may be used in lieu of DA Form 3349 for temporary profiles not to exceed 30 days and will

include information on activities the Soldier can perform, as well as the physical limitations. An SF 600 will be used to

attach additional information to the DA Form 3349 on the physical activities a Soldier can or cannot perform if there is

inadequate space on the DA Form 3349. This additional SF 600 will be clearly labeled as a continuation of the DA

Form 3349.

(2) If electronic profiling is available, an electronic DA Form 3349 will be used for all profiles over 30 days

duration.

(3) The DA Form 3349 will be prepared as follows:

(a) Item 1. Record medical conditions and/or physical defects in common usage, nontechnical language that a

layman can understand. For example, “compound comminuted fracture, left tibia” might simply be described as

“broken leg.” The checkboxes labeled Injury and Illness/Disease are used for tracking purposes. Check the injury box

if the Soldier’s medical condition is the result of an injury; otherwise, check the box labeled Illness/Disease.

(b) Item 2. Code designations (defined in table 7-2) are limited to permanent profiles for administrative use only and

are to be completed by the profiling officer. Up to three different codes can be listed. All functional and assignment

limitations are recorded in item 8.

(c) Item 3. Enter under each permanent and temporary PULHES factors the appropriate profile serial code (1, 2, 3,

and 4) as prescribed) for the specific PULHES factor. A Soldier may have a permanent profile for one condition and a

temporary profile for another. All permanent profile blocks must be filled in. Only the applicable block under the

temporary profile needs to be completed. For example, a Soldier with a sprained ankle who has permanent H3 hearing

loss would be coded 111311 in the permanent PULHES space but _ _ 3 _ _under the temporary PULHES space.

(d) Item 4. Profile type. Check the appropriate block “a” or “b” for the type of profile. If the profile is temporary,

enter the expiration date. If the profile is permanent, the profiling officer must assess if the Soldier meets retention

standards of chapter 3 (Item 7).

(e) Item 5. Answer “Yes” or “No” to items 5a through 5j. These functional activities are the minimum requirements

to be considered medically qualified for military duties worldwide and under field conditions. If any answer is “No”

then the appropriate profile serial will in most cases be at least a 3 and the Soldier will be referred to a MEB. If the

Soldier is able to do all the functional activities listed in 5 and meets the retention standards of chapter 3, the Soldier

will be referred to a MMRB in accordance with AR 600–60, unless waived by the MMRB convening authority.

(f) Item 6. Physical Fitness Test. Check either “Yes” or “No” to indicate whether the Soldier can perform the

activities for the APFT. The “Yes” or “No” blocks on the alternate APFT need only be completed if the Soldier has

restrictions for the regular APFT. If the Soldier cannot perform at least an alternate APFT the profile serial will be at

least a 3 and referred to an MEB.

(g) Item 7. Those Soldiers (active duty and USAR/ARNG) who meet retention standards but have at least a

permanent 3 or 4 PULHES (yes for item 7) serial will be referred to a MMRB in accordance with AR 600–60, unless

waived by the MMRB convening authority. Those Soldiers on active duty who do not meet retention standards (“No”

for item 7), must be referred to an MEB as per chapter 3. (See paras 9–10 and 10–26 for disposition of USAR and

ARNG Soldiers not on active duty who do not meet medical retention standards.)

(h) Item 8. This space will be used to list any other physical activity restrictions or limitations not listed elsewhere

on the form. In accordance with paragraph 7–4b, the profiling officer must review previous profiles before making a

decision to extend a temporary profile. If this is an extension of a previous temporary profile, fill in the date of the

original temporary profile in Item 8.

(i) Items 9, 10, and 11. Name and signature of profiling officer and date profile completed. Print name, grade and

title of profiling officer, signature, and date. Permanent “1” or “2” profiles require the signature of one profiling

officer. The signature of the profiling officer for “1” or “2” profiles is written in the section: "Typed name, grade, and

title of profiling officer." Permanent “3” or “4” profiles require the signatures of two profiling officers, one of whom is

the physician approving authority (unless the provisions of 7–8f apply). (See para 7–8 to determine who is qualified to

be a profiling officer.) Temporary profiles require only the signature of one profiling officer except for extensions of

profiles noted in paragraph 7–6a(2).

(j) Items 12, 13, and 14. Name and signature of approving authority and date reviewed. The approving authority will

be designated by the MTF commander. (In the case of RC Soldiers not on active duty, see para 7–8f.) The approving

AR 40–501 • 14 December 2007/RAR 23 August 2010 81

authority for permanent “3” or “4” profiles must be a physician. If the approving authority does not concur with the

profiling officer recommendation, the MTF commander will make the final decision.

(k) Item 15. How to access electronic profiles on Soldiers. Commanders can access the electronic profiles of

Soldiers in their unit by going to http://www.mods.army.mil/ and clicking on “e-Profile” in MODS in the list of

applications. Commanders are required to register and be approved to access the e-Profile module in MODS before

they can gain access to the electronic profiles

(l) Item 16. Include patient identification: Name (Last, First); Grade/Rank; SSN (last 4 numbers or SSN); and the

Soldier’s unit.

(m) Item 17. Hospital or Medical facility.

(n) Item 18. Profiling Officer E-mail.

1. Disposition of DA Form 3349 (temporary or permanent) by the MTF. The electronic profile will be routed to the

military personnel office (MILPO) and the Soldier’s medical record. A paper copy of DA Form 3349 will be given to

the Soldier. If the e-Profile is not available, a paper copy will be delivered by means other than the individual on whom

the report is made to the following:

(1) Original to the Soldier’s health record.

(2) One copy to the Soldier’s commander.

(3) One copy to the MILPO.

1. Medical Protection System. The profiling officer (or approving authority if applicable) is responsible for ensuring

the PULHES and Date of Profile is entered into the Medical Protection System (MEDPROS).

7–12. Responsibility for personnel actions

1. Commanders and personnel officers are responsible for necessary personnel actions, including appropriate entries

on personnel management records and the assignment of the individual to military duties commensurate with the

individual’s physical profile and recorded assignment limitations.

1. If the Soldier’s commander believes the Soldier cannot perform within the limits of the permanent profile, the

commander will request reconsideration of the profile by the profiling physician. Reconsideration must be accomplished

by the profiling officer, who will either amend the profile or revalidate the profile as appropriate. Commanders

may also request a review of temporary profiles.

7–13. Physical profile and the Army Weight Control Program

The DA Form 3349 will not be used to excuse Soldiers from the provisions of AR 600–9. The AR 600–9 contains a

standard memorandum for completion by a physician if there is an underlying or associated disease process that is the

cause of the overweight condition. The inability to perform all APFT events or the use of certain medications is not

generally considered sufficient medical rationale to exempt a Soldier from AR 600–9.

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