Basic Uniform Components: Uniform items required as part of the basic uniform. These are the minimum items which must be worn unless the prescribing authority directs otherwise. Examples: pants, shirt, belt, shoes.

Prescribable Items: Uniform items which may be directed or authorized with the basic uniform. Prescribable items may be worn with the basic uniform at the individual's discretion unless otherwise directed. Examples: Command ball cap, belt buckle with the Public Health Service (PHS) Corps device, tie tack with PHS Corps device.

Optional Items: Uniform items purchased at the wearer's expense, which may be worn with the basic uniform, but which are not prescribable. Optional items may be worn with the basic uniform at the individual's discretion unless otherwise directed. Examples: white scarf, brown/aviator shoes, foul weather coat, bridge coat, reefer.

Conspicuous: Obvious to the eye, attracting attention, striking, bright in color. Should blend with, not stand out from, a professional appearance in uniform. If attention is naturally drawn to or distracted from the professional appearance, it is conspicuous. Examples: dangling earrings, bright red lipstick, brightly colored ID holder lanyards, bulky wallets.

Conservative: Not conspicuous or detracting from the professional appearance while in uniform. Examples: Neutral fingernail polish, 6mm yellow gold ball earrings.

Faddish: A style followed for a short period of time with exaggerated zeal. Styles are enduring; fads are generally short in duration and frequently started by an individual or event in the civilian community. Fads are generally conspicuous and detract from a professional appearance. Examples: outlandish designer eyeglasses, hairstyles, cause-support bracelets.

Compliments Skin Tone: A conservative color which contributes to the wearer's natural skin tone. Conservative colors are generally inconspicuous and do not detract from a professional appearance in uniform. Example: neutral, natural, or nude.

• The U.S. Flag patch is not authorized for wear on the Battle Dress Uniform (BDU) or Field Jacket unless the officer is actively assigned or detailed to a Department of Defense (DOD) agency.
• The desert tan/khaki combat boots are not authorized for wear with Woodland BDUs.
• Combat or DOD agency unit patches are not authorized for wear on the BDUs. • BDU trousers must be bloused or tucked into the boot.
• If it has a button, button it; if it has a zipper, zip it; if it has a tie, tie it.
• Pens, pencils, wallets, etc., should not stick out of pockets or be so bulky to prevent closure of pocket(s).
• Black shoes require black socks; brown/aviator shoes require khaki socks.
• Effective January 1, 2008:
  • Beards are no longer authorized, unless a medical waiver is on file in the Medical Affairs Branch, Office of Commissioned Corps Support Services, Program Support Center;
  • Wear of the Navy sweater with black leather nametag is authorized to begin wear; and the
  • Gold Field Medical Readiness Badge (FMRB) is authorized for wear.

Any uniform questions can be sent electronically to phsccuniform@hhs.gov