Air Force, Army, Navy Physicians Face Unusual Variety of Challenges

Abstract

THE PHYSICIAN who is surgeon general of the US Air Force, Army, or Navy today faces challenges that include: Providing medical care for the more than 2 million men and women of the US armed forces, for their nearly 3 million dependents, and for some 5 million military retirees, their surviving spouses, and their other dependents. Operating a network of medical facilities that spans much of the globe and that must be prepared for any medical emergency up to and including war. Recruiting and retaining physicians and other medical personnel who have numerous competing opportunities. Keeping pace with medical developments, encouraging research that may reduce the health hazards faced by military people, and adjusting to the changing environmental, technological, and cultural circumstances of military life. <h3>World's Largest System</h3> To meet these and other challenges, the Military Health Services System operates the world's largest medical system, with more than 500 facilities.