Non-deployable SVM Retention & Assignment
Background
The Navy implemented a new EMPLOY program that provides non-deployable service members with expanded opportunities for continued service.
EMPLOY is a collaboration between Navy Personnel Command (NPC) and the Navy Bureau of Medicine and Surgery (BUMED) to identify, retain, and assign SVMs before being referred to the Disability Evaluation System (DES).
In 2023, more than 1,500 SVM separated through the DES with conditions that have met requirements for ashore billets. This represents a significant loss of experience and talent to our professional naval workforce.
EMPLOY eligible SVM will be considered for assignment to non-deployable positions rather than automatically referred to a Medical Evaluation Board (MEB). SVM will be assigned to billets that enable meaningful employment in valid requirements.
The program focuses on a SVM’s employability to improve the quality of service, retain talent that contributes to our warfighting advantage, and reduce the administrative burden of the Disability Evaluation System (DES).
Upon approval for EMPLOY Program and service member changes back to ACC 100, service members can move forward with:
**REENLISTMENT / EXTENSIONS **
Reenlistment and Extension requests should be submitted at least 4 weeks prior to the member's EAOS/SEAOS/TRF date/C-WAY expiration. Requests can take up to 2 weeks to process. SHORT FUSED REQUESTS MAY NOT BE PROCESSED IN A TIMELY MANNER.
Reenlistment/Extensions
The following contract actions require prior approval from BUPERS-328:
- Conditional Reenlistments (MILPERSMAN 1160-030)
- OBLISERV to Train (OTT) (OPNAVINST 1160.8B)
- Extension Cancellation (as applicable) (MILPERSMAN 1160-040)
- Retain in Service (RIS) due to medical/LIMDU (MILPERSMAN 1160-050)
- Pg. 13 in lieu of hard OBLISERV
- Exception to Policy (ETP)
**ACTIVE DUTY CONVERSIONS **
Members in a LIMDU status must not be processed for forced conversion until having been designated as fit for duty.
Active Duty Conversions
Forced Conversion requests shall be submitted IAW MILPERSMAN 1440-011.
BUPERS-328 only accepts requests submitted on the ePAR 1306/7 form. All ePAR requests must be submitted to MNCC via the MyNavyPortal or by emailing MNCC directly at askmncc.fct@navy.mil. Additionally, commands may contact MNCC directly at 901-874-MNCC.
PHYSICAL READINESS PROGRAM (OPNAVINST 6110.1K)
Medical Waiver Management
Service Members with two consecutive medical waivers or three in the most recent four-year period, must be referred to a medical treatment facility for a Medical Evaluation Board (MEB). MEB findings and unique medical situations will be forwarded to Navy Personnel Command (PERS-454) for disposition.
- The provider approving the second consecutive, or third waiver within the most recent four-year period, should contact the PERS-454 EMPLOY program manager and SMO to request a case review to determine IF referral to MEB is necessary.
- Employ program does not exempt service member from any portion of the Physical Fitness Assessment requirements. Service member must continue to adhere to the policy outlined in the current OPNAVINST 6110.1K.
EMPLOY nominations which are not approved
Disapproval is a final determination of PERS-454 Senior Medical Officer and is not appealable. The next step for the SVM is to proceed to PEB.
EMPLOY PROGRAM
POINT OF CONTACT: DSN 882
EMPLOY: 901-872-3312
npc-employ@us.navy.mil