Medical Readiness Education and Training Exercises by United States Army Medical Personnel in Kenya

Abstract

Medical Readiness Education and Training Exercises (MEDRETEs) enable United States military medical personnel to sharpen their skills in diagnosis and treatment of common illnesses in rural third world populations. We report our experiences on MEDRETEs conducted during recent exercises in the Republic of Kenya involving United States and Kenyan forces. Respiratory, musculoskeletal, and eyes, ears, nose, and throat conditions comprised 55% of cases. In 73% of cases, the final diagnosis and the chief complaint were in the same diagnostic category. In asymptomatic patients, 17% had physical findings suggestive of significant disease. Anecdotal experiences demonstrated the importance of the local environment and social customs in the genesis of certain illnesses and symptoms.