Law Enforcement

Stupid question... Due to the physical nature of being a police officer, is there an automatic disqualification for hire if pacemaker was installed prior to application process? I would imagine that unarmed self defense and wrestling around with subjects maybe to much blunt trauma to the pacemaker.

4 Comments

LAW ENFORCEMENT QUESTION

by daynanestor1 - 2014-03-29 01:03:24

I heard that the PM can be placed under the muscle and then it may not be a problem for you, please check into that option with your doctor.

depends

by Tracey_E - 2014-03-29 02:03:12

Depends on why you got it and the rules where you are applying. Some are ok with it as long as your dr clears you, some will not be open to it. Icd's are usually more of a problem than pm's.

The odds of taking a direct hit to the pm are slim. Even if you do, you may bruise up but the pm will be fine. It's titanium, you will not hurt it. There used to be a video on Heartbeat International's website about a boy who took a bullet to the chest. The pm stopped the bullet, saved his life, and kept on pacing.

Response to TRACEY

by DANRAINES - 2014-03-29 02:03:53

Thanks... Training from military and College degree are in law enforcement. Good to know that there isn't a defining mark that tells me I need to start over.

Retired Officer

by Ck - 2014-03-29 06:03:47

Hi Dan,
There were several officers with my department who had a PM or ICD. If you are otherwise physically fit, and fully capable of doing the job, no employer can refuse to hire you solely because you have heart disease.

Heart disease is covered under the Americans with Disabilities Act, so there's actually a federal law that covers you.

You may be persuaded to look elsewhere for employment. Police departments are funny like that. And I'm sure they will capitalize on the "what if you get hit" question. (Police love to ask "what if" questions). But don't let that change your mind if this is really what you want to do.

Send me a private message if you want to discuss this further. And good luck!

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