I was just wondering how many out there have had to deal with a family member with type 1 diabetes and the struggle with transfering? I have been told I cannot apply for many billets because of this because there isn't an adequete medical facility..

I would recommend you contact your Command Chief and talk about the Special Needs Program; your cart is a little bit ahead of the horse; if I remember correctly once enrolled in the program the detailer will work with you and the family programs people to ensure that not only are the needs of the service met but they are done so to make sure every effort possible is done to get you stationed in areas that have the facilities that you may need. Your profile indicates you live in Alaska; I would think that if there are adequate facilities available there then you should be ok elsewhere. Visit this link: Yahoo Health Answers about Type I Diabetes

From a quick glance it looks like this type of diabetes is manageable with medication (insulin) and diet. Good luck with your family.

By NOT being in the special needs program you potentially can be transferred to a locale that cannot support your dependents medical issue.

Check the directives index for the Commandant Instruction for the Special Needs Program and contact your command to initiate the steps.

Contrary to popular belief the program does NOT stop you from being transferred to do your time at different stations. It just makes sure that all parties are aware that the family has a particular need.

INKED,
I am an active duty member with a 12 year old daughter who has Type I diabetes.
You are required to enrole in the Special Needs program.
You can request any billet anywhere. The SNP will only give the assignment officer a flag when you submit an e-resume. He will then send a note to the special needs coordinator with the list of locations you asked for.
The SN coordinator will only tell the AO that a location you requested is suitable for your needs or not. The actual need is kept confidential.
Most metropolitan areas can offer the on going treatment needed for Type-I diabetes.
You can prescreen yourself by looking at the locations available on your shopping list and then see if TRICARE or a Miltary Treatment facility is close by with a endocrinolgy department.

BMCM

thanks to all, we are in the special needs program, we enrolled a little late in the game but did enroll, being in Petersburg, Alaska was part on her being from here and family in town. I HAVE talked to our Family Resource Specialist and I gave her a list of "potential" billets and she has been working on finding out along with myself. I just feel frustrated at times like these.

InkedCookie,

I am a CPO CG reservist who was recalled after 911 - served almost 6 years AD afterwards. 8 months after the 911 recall, my daughter was diagnosed with Diabetes Type 1. She was 7-year-old at the time. Her father, a CPO reservist also, carries her on his private civilian insurance and she has been well taken care of since. But the levels still need to be monitored every 3 months. AIC's every three months etc. This means monitoring for a very long time.

I'm in the Boston area and utilize Chidrens Hosptial, Joselin Diabetes Center. If you need any info, give me a shout. While you are there, I can keep you updated on what is happening here.

v/r
YNC Anne

quote:

Originally posted by InkedCookie:
thanks to all, we are in the special needs program, we enrolled a little late in the game but did enroll, being in Petersburg, Alaska was part on her being from here and family in town. I HAVE talked to our Family Resource Specialist and I gave her a list of "potential" billets and she has been working on finding out along with myself. I just feel frustrated at times like these.

We have a five year old with type 1. We have had great support for here in Cape May as far as supplies. We travel to Philadelphia for her scheduled checkups at Childrens Hospital(CHOP).

" Most metropolitan areas can offer the on going treatment needed for Type-I diabetes."

That is true for adults. However there are very few Pediatric Endocrinologists across the US. We have one here in Philadelphia and the next area that has one any where near is in Delaware at the Dupont hospital. We got lucky with CHOP and they have web support 24/7 and our nurse/doctor are accessable 24/7 as well.
Beyond that I could pick Boston or Georgia around Atlanta. Not a whole lot of them around.
It will be interesting for me when I am up for transfer. Good luck in yours.