Quality, Professional Medical Care Given to Guantanamo Detainees

Photo By Tech. Sgt. Tiffany Black | A Joint Medical Group staff member, with Joint Task Force Guantanamo, briefs visitors about the quality medical care provided to detainees at the detention hospital.  

GUANTANAMO BAY, CUBA

12.11.2009

Story by Petty Officer 1st Class Edward Flynn 

Joint Task Force Guantanamo Public Affairs

GUANTANAMO BAY, Cuba — For service members at Joint Task Force Guantanamo, providing exceptional medical care to detainees is consistent with the JTF mission of ensuring a safe, humane, legal and transparent care and custody of all detainees.

"As professionals, our medical care does not discriminate," said one JTF medical doctor. "Under the Geneva Conventions, we are required to provide access to quality medical care. As medical professionals, we take that responsibility seriously."

Detainees are treated at a dedicated medical facility with state-of-the-art equipment and technology with an expert medical staff of more than 100 personnel. The staff provides all aspects of quality medical care to the detainees, regardless of their disciplinary status.

"We want the world to know that the detainees are provided quality care. It is also our responsibility to ensure this information is provided to the public and international community," another JTF medical professional added.

Detainees have immediate access to a wide range of medical care including skilled nurses, doctors and physical therapists. Each detainee receives a comprehensive physical and dental examination upon arrival at JTF. Regular medical follow-up treatment is also available for each detainee. Ongoing medical appointments ensure each detainee is current on all immunizations. Trained nurses and doctors conduct nutritional supervision for the detainees; ensuring daily feedings are properly administered for some of those who refuse to eat.

Detainees have also received quality medical care for wounds sustained prior to detention.

More serious medical conditions can be treated at the naval base hospital operating room and intensive-care unit. Specialists are available to provide care at Guantanamo for any medical needs that exceed the capabilities of the base hospital.

Mental health professionals from the Behavioral Health Services ensure mental health care is available for detainees. From depression to anxiety, detainees have immediate access to mental health professionals. In addition, a professional pharmacy staff is able to fill needed prescriptions. "The medical team works hard to ensure all detainees receive the best care possible, regardless of their legal status," said a JTF doctor.

For more information about Joint Task Force Guantanamo, visit the Web site at www.jtfgtmo.southcom.mil.

• Date Taken: 12.11.2009
• Date Posted: 12.14.2009 10:15
• Story ID: 42731
• Location: GUANTANAMO BAY, CU