A recent policy letter from 3rd Infantry Division Commander Maj. Gen. Robert “Abe” Abrams, which establishes the standard duty day, also affects soldiers scheduling medical appointments. The policy has been clarified by Lt. Col. Benjamin L. Garrett, 3rd ID public affairs officer.

Part of the policy restricts soldiers from scheduling routine medical appointments during physical training hours (6:30-730 a.m.), but this does not change Fort Stewart or Hunter Army Airfield’s sick call hours, nor does it affect appointments for special medical procedures, Garrett said.

“A standard duty day for our soldiers is necessary to maximize predictability for family time,” he explained. “This policy establishes a standard duty day and clarifies requirements for training on weekends and holidays. It does not change normal medical activities.”

Garrett emphasized that soldiers still are allowed to report for regular sick call, and they can schedule medical procedures such as minor surgery or special tests during PT hours.

He said the policy clearly outlines exceptions to the standard duty day, but these exception are “strongly scrutinized” to protect family quality time.