Elective surgeries available to Airmen: at a cost and on a case-by-case basis Published Dec. 3, 2010 By Brandice J. Armstrong Staff Writer TINKER AIR FORCE BASE, Okla. -- Elective Surgery, a surgery that is chosen by a patient and deemed beneficial but not essential, is available to Airmen. But, contrary to popular belief, there are several restrictions in order to be eligible and none of the procedures are available at Tinker. Should Airmen continue the pursuit for an elective surgery, the chief of Medical Staff for the 72nd Medical Group said they should realize the process and risks may outweigh the desired benefits. "Because we're limited by duty restrictions and our mission is to be world-wide deployable, there aren't a lot of elective procedures that increase this capability," said Maj. Grand Wong. "So, the procedure for obtaining an elective procedure is very clear cut and you have to obtain the permission from your commander to get it done. "Active-duty Airmen are all governed by our readiness status and our ability to deploy, so there are procedures that commanders will deny if they are concerned about recovery time and duty limitations" Major Wong said. But, that's not all. Airmen are responsible for the cost of the procedure. Some services may be available at military hospitals but most are not. Procedures done at military hospitals still will involve cost to the Airmen to cover supplies and facility overhead costs. In addition, Airmen will need to take leave for the procedure and recovery and are responsible for all costs associated with traveling to the appointment and follow up. "We don't want the general public to be under the assumption these services are readily available," Major Wong said. "They're occasionally available on a case-by-case basis and it is best to have a conversation with your doctor to discuss your options." If there are any complications as a result of the surgery, active duty members are not eligible for disability benefits, and must sign a release stating as such. If the member sustains a complication that affects his readiness status this can be reflected negatively on their record as well, the major said. "We have great surgeons in the military who provide exceptional care in the field," Major Wong said. "They have a high operations tempo and their availability to perform elective procedures may also be limited at these specialized centers."