Warrior medics focus on readiness

UNITED STATES

06.22.2008

Story by Maj. John Heil 

332nd Medical Brigade

By Maj. John Heil
332nd Medical Brigade Public Affairs

NASHVILLE, TN – More than 50 Soldiers of the 332nd Medical Brigade, known as the Warrior Medics, kept ready by completing their annual periodic health assessment on during their June battle assembly at the William F. Lyell U.S. Army Reserve Center in Nashville, Tenn.

Assisting the Soldiers were six representatives from Logistics Health Incorporated and three from Wise Medical Staffing. Representatives from Wise Medical Staffing were responsible for drawing blood, determining immunization needs, and performing electro-cardiograms, while the staff at Logistics Health Inc. was responsible for the performing and recording periodic health assessments for Soldiers.

"Every unit is supposed to do Soldier Readiness Processing at least once a year," said Col. Jaclynn Williams, mobilization chief and acting chief of staff, "Soldiers must be physically and mentally ready to be placed on a battle roster."

Three physician assistants performed periodic health assessments for the Warrior Medics and three administrative specialists kept record of assessments. "Today you may feel young and vital," said Ms. Yvonne Jeter administrative lead for Logistics Health Inc., "Things that have happened to you need to be recorded because you may need attention in the future. If it's not documented, it may be difficult to address in the future."

Logistics Health Inc. is contracted by the Department Of Defense to provide the health readiness program nationwide. "In 18 months, I have seen more than 30 units across all branches of service," said Jeter.

As part of readiness, the Warrior Medics focused on organizational equipment accountability, training and education. Chaplain Richard Ulrich discussed suicide awareness with the troops. "Leaders should create a trusted environment where Soldiers feel like its "OK" to ask for help," said Ulrich, "A climate must exist where seeking help is not seen as a character flaw but as a strength."

"Soldiers must be fully ready medically, mentally, physically, administratively and also in their dental health," said Williams, "Performing these periodic health assessments helps leaders determine who is ready in order to prevent delays during mobilization call up."

During the last 12 months, the 332nd Medical Brigade ensured that over 1,200 records for Soldiers in its down trace units were reviewed. "Information from this periodic health assessment should be input into medical protection.

• Date Taken: 06.22.2008
• Date Posted: 07.01.2008 20:35
• Story ID: 21080
• Location: US