In an organization with hierarchical ranking structure like the military, this officer and related occupies a unique position. This officer has complete authority over any patient in placed in his or her care even when it is a superior officer until deemed fit for duty.

In addition, if in his or her professional judgement the CMO deems an person in the officer's assigned area or vessel as medically unfit, can remove even a superior officer from duty until that person's condition improves.