for pugs definitely. For groups of peeps who play together and know the content, not at all. The farther you get away from the perfect party the better tactics and gear need to be for sure. But dont necessarily need huge dps or incredible healers for any of it. Of course they help.
If the op has a subpar build, but is a solid player, there shouldnt be a problem getting into groups and contributing. I cant say if this is the case or not, but I know there are several epics that can be done with no "healer ie: mostly cleric or fvs" and with non axer builds....