Statement by Chief Pentagon Spokesman, Sean Parnell, on the Clinical Guidance for Health and Human Performance Optimization

 

The Department remains focused on building and maintaining a ready, lethal fighting force prepared to dominate the battlefield and achieve peace through strength.

 

In his July 15, 2026, memorandum, “Health and Human Performance Optimization to Enhance Military Readiness,” the Secretary of War directed mandatory testosterone deficiency screenings for all Service members aged 30 and older during their Periodic Health Assessments, with optional screenings available for warfighters under the age of 30.

 

Consistent with this memorandum, on September 2, 2026, the Director of the Defense Health Agency issued comprehensive clinical guidance to the Military Departments and medical care providers. Effective immediately, this guidance addresses both male testosterone deficiency and female hormonal optimization. It establishes uniform screening and treatment pathways across the DHA enterprise. It also underscores the availability of clinical training for all primary care providers and assigns responsibility for compliance.

 

By proactively identifying and treating suboptimal hormone levels, the Department continues to invest in the health of its warfighters, strengthen their performance, and maximize force readiness.

 

The “Clinical Guidance for Health and Human Performance Optimization” memorandum can be found here, the "Health and Human Performance Optimization to Enhance Military Readiness" memorandum can be found here, and the "Warfighter Performance Optimization – Total Force Fitness" memorandum can be found here.