Air Force Periodic Health Assessment Guide

Introduction to the Air Force Periodic Health Assessment

The Air Force Periodic Health Assessment (PHA) is a mandatory medical examination that all Air Force personnel must undergo on a regular basis. The purpose of the PHA is to ensure that airmen are medically fit to perform their duties and to identify any potential health issues early on. In this guide, we will walk you through the PHA process, including what to expect, how to prepare, and what happens after the assessment.

What is the Purpose of the PHA?

The primary purpose of the PHA is to evaluate an airman’s medical fitness for duty. This includes assessing their overall health, identifying any medical conditions that may affect their ability to perform their job, and providing recommendations for maintaining or improving their health. The PHA also provides an opportunity for airmen to discuss any health concerns they may have with a medical professional.

Who is Required to Undergo a PHA?

All active duty, Reserve, and Guard airmen are required to undergo a PHA on a regular basis. The frequency of the PHA depends on the airman’s age and other factors, such as their medical history and job requirements. Typically, airmen under the age of 40 are required to undergo a PHA every 5 years, while those over 40 are required to undergo a PHA every 2-3 years.

How to Prepare for a PHA

To prepare for a PHA, airmen should: * Review their medical history and be prepared to discuss any medical conditions they have * Make a list of their medications and be prepared to discuss any changes to their medication regimen * Fast for at least 8 hours before the assessment to ensure accurate blood work results * Wear comfortable clothing and be prepared to undergo a physical examination * Bring any relevant medical documents, such as test results or medical clearance forms

What to Expect During a PHA

During a PHA, airmen can expect to undergo a comprehensive medical examination, which may include: * A physical examination to assess their overall health and identify any potential medical issues * Blood work to check for any underlying medical conditions, such as high blood pressure or diabetes * A urine test to check for any signs of infection or other medical issues * A review of their medical history to identify any potential health risks * A discussion of their health concerns and any recommendations for maintaining or improving their health

PHA Results and Follow-Up

After the PHA, airmen will receive a medical clearance form that indicates their medical fitness for duty. If any medical issues are identified during the PHA, airmen may be required to undergo follow-up testing or treatment. In some cases, airmen may be required to undergo a waiver process to determine their medical fitness for duty.

💡 Note: Airmen should carefully review their PHA results and follow any recommendations for maintaining or improving their health.

Maintaining Medical Fitness

To maintain medical fitness, airmen should: * Stay up-to-date on their vaccinations * Practice good hygiene and take steps to prevent illness and injury * Eat a healthy diet and stay physically active * Get enough sleep and manage stress * Stay informed about health issues and take steps to prevent them

Age	PHA Frequency
Under 40	Every 5 years
40-50	Every 3 years
Over 50	Every 2 years

As airmen navigate the PHA process, it’s essential to remember that medical fitness is critical to their ability to perform their duties. By understanding the PHA process, preparing for the assessment, and maintaining medical fitness, airmen can ensure they are ready to serve and perform their duties to the best of their ability.

In the end, the Air Force Periodic Health Assessment is a critical component of maintaining a healthy and effective Air Force. By prioritizing medical fitness and taking steps to maintain their health, airmen can ensure they are medically fit to perform their duties and serve their country.