Question:

How should an evaluation report for an applicant with a recent foot amputation be addressed, particularly regarding their suitability for a detention officer position, when the applicant denies any current mobility issues and claims to be able to run a mile and a half?

Answer:

Given the applicant's reported ability to run a mile and a half and lack of current mobility issues, it is appropriate to mention the amputation in the executive summary and suggest a medical clearance to ensure he can meet the physical requirements of the position. This approach stays within the psychological assessment scope while deferring the medical and functional determination to the appropriate medical professionals. Here’s the suggested wording:

Relative strengths include his experience as a correctional officer as well as his past experience as a volunteer firefighter. Relative weaknesses include his intellect, as formally tested. Additionally, Applicant reported that his foot was amputated earlier this year. He denied experiencing any current mobility issues and added that he can run a mile and a half. Regardless, it would be prudent to have him medically cleared for this position to ensure that he is capable of performing the physical requirements.

Question:

Should a medical release be obtained for transgender applicants who are undergoing hormone replacement therapy (HRT) and transition, given that HRT can produce affective changes that may impact mental health?

Answer:

In evaluating whether a medical release is necessary for transgender applicants undergoing hormone replacement therapy (HRT), consider the following guidelines:

1. Medical History and Presenting Issues: If there is evidence of affective or behavioral changes, or if the transition is associated with a history of significant issues (such as being a victim of sexual assault, intense bullying, history of cutting or suicidal ideation), then obtaining a medical release or records of interest (ROI) is advisable. This helps ensure that any potential impact of the transition process on the individual's mental health is appropriately monitored and addressed.

2. Current Therapy: If the applicant is actively in therapy during their hormone treatment, obtaining a medical release to review therapy records is also appropriate. This ensures that the applicant's mental health is being adequately supported throughout their transition.

3. Absence of Concerning History: If the applicant has no concerning history and is not presenting with significant issues related to their transition, it is not necessary to single out hormone therapy as a specific reason to mandate a medical release. Hormone therapy itself, while potentially affecting mood or behavior, should be treated like any other medical treatment unless there are additional indicators suggesting a need for closer examination.

4. Standard Procedures: Apply the same principles used in other medical evaluations. Focus on the presence of any symptoms or issues that could impact the applicant's suitability rather than making transition status a standalone reason for medical scrutiny.

In summary, only pursue a medical release if there are indications of past or present issues that could be exacerbated by the transition process or if ongoing therapy suggests potential mental health concerns.