JOINT BASE CHARLESTON, S.C. –
Quarters
The controversial topic of quarters can actually be simplified into a quick summary using Air Force Instruction guidance and medical knowledge. Quarters essentially authorizes a full duty-day excuse provided to active duty service members receiving medical or dental treatment for a disease or injury that, based on sound professional judgment, does not require inpatient care. A quarter's patient, treated on an outpatient basis, is to remain in their domicile during the quarter's timeframe, and is generally returned to duty within a 72-hour period. AFI 41-210, Chapter 3, Item 3.6.4. Unit commanders and supervisors have the authority to grant up to 24-hours sick status at their discretion if a member's illness or injury which does not require Medical Treatment Facility intervention. If the illness or injury persists beyond 24-hours, then the commander or supervisor must refer the member to the Medical Treatment Facility for treatment and subsequent quarters authorization.