A TUE is determined on a case-by-case basis, where the facts and circumstances, along with the substantial research on the topic available, are considered prior to making the ruling. If a TUE is not granted, she could appeal or seek to change the rules of the governing body. It is not the easiest path, nor a potentially successful one.

I do not disagree (nor agree) that following a doctor's recommendation was the right call for her health. (There is insufficient information available to determine whether the drug used was appropriate and/or warranted, other than what Chaffin has stated.) It was the wrong decision for a professional triathlete to make in taking a banned substance, especially considering there were alternatives available not on the banned substance list. The 2 year suspension was warranted.