The Navy updated its physical readiness assessment standards started back in January and the spring testing cycle is coming to a close, but there's one problem: None of that data has been saved online.
Command fitness leaders enter their sailors' fitness data into the Physical Readiness Information Management System twice a year, but so far in 2016 they haven't been able to, because the software hasn't been updated to reflect the new standards.
"The goal had been to make the updates in time for Cycle 1, 2016, but were delayed to make sure we could test the system and ensure we get it right the first time," chief of naval personnel spokesman Lt. Joe Keiley told Navy Times on Thursday.
The changes are being made in phases, according to a NAVADMIN released Thursday. The first step is to let CFLs enter data and allow sailors to see it, which should be available in the fall cycle, which starts in July.
The updated PRIMS will also include new fields to reflect the updated standards:
- High, medium or low physical readiness test performance categories.
- Abdominal circumference on body composition assessment measurement.
- Age-specific body fat standards.
There will also be information about the Fitness Enhancement Program — which is now mandatory for those who fail spot-checks or fail Navy BCA standards, even if they're the Defense Department maximum — and new CFL recertification requirements, according to the message.
"We want to reassure commands that we are working quickly to make these updates to the system," said Rear Adm. Ann Burkhardt, director of the 21st Century Sailor office, in a release.. "It's our responsibility to make sure commanding officers have the information needed to run their PFA program, and we place our trust in them that they will foster a positive climate of fitness."
In the meantime, sailors have to fill out a paper copy of the Physical Activity Risk Factor Questionnaire before testing, and CFLs should keep hard copies of PFA score sheets, according to the message.
If sailors are about to transfer, CFLs need to do a little extra work. They shouldn't change the sailor to "transfer status" in the system until the most recent PFA data is entered, and they have to give the sailor a copy of his or her score sheet — or a signed memorandum with the scores — to bring to their next command.
"PRIMS will be fully updated prior to the end of fiscal year '16," Keiley said.
Meghann Myers is the Pentagon bureau chief at Military Times. She covers operations, policy, personnel, leadership and other issues affecting service members.
