PULHES Factor

The PULHES Factor is a system used by the United States military to evaluate the physical and mental fitness of service members. The acronym "PULHES" stands for six categories of health: Physical capacity, Upper extremities, Lower extremities, Hearing and ears, Eyes, and Psychiatric. Each category is assigned a numerical value that indicates the level of fitness or limitations of the individual.

History

The PULHES system was developed to provide a standardized method for assessing the medical readiness of military personnel. It has been used by the U.S. military for several decades and is an integral part of the MOS classification process.

Components

The PULHES system consists of the following categories:

P - Physical capacity or stamina

This category assesses the overall physical capacity and stamina of the individual. It considers factors such as cardiovascular fitness and endurance.

U - Upper extremities

This category evaluates the function and condition of the upper extremities, including the arms, shoulders, and hands.

L - Lower extremities

This category assesses the function and condition of the lower extremities, including the legs, knees, and feet.

H - Hearing and ears

This category evaluates the individual's hearing ability and the condition of the ears.

E - Eyes

This category assesses the individual's vision and the condition of the eyes.

S - Psychiatric

This category evaluates the individual's mental health and psychiatric condition.

Scoring

Each category is scored on a scale from 1 to 4:

• 1 - No limitations
• 2 - Minor limitations
• 3 - Significant limitations
• 4 - Severe limitations

The scores are used to determine the individual's suitability for various military roles and assignments. A lower score indicates fewer limitations and greater fitness for duty.

Applications

The PULHES Factor is used in various military processes, including:

• Enlistment
• MOS classification
• Deployment readiness
• Medical discharge

Criticism and Limitations

While the PULHES system provides a comprehensive assessment of physical and mental fitness, it has been criticized for its potential subjectivity and variability in scoring. Additionally, some argue that it may not fully capture the complexities of certain medical conditions.

Also see

• Military Occupational Specialty
• Medical discharge
• Physical fitness in the military
• Military medical standards