SAIPAN, Northern Mariana Islands - Army and Air Force Active, National Guard and Reserve components led by the 807th Medical Command (Deployment Support) provided free health care in the Commonwealth of Northern Mariana Islands in July.
Six 176th Medical Group Alaska Air National Guard members traveled more than 4,400 miles to augment the 807th MC(DS) for the Innovative Readiness Training mission.
According to an 807th MC(DS) report, Tinian, Rota and Saipan communities received primary care, behavioral health, dental, optometry and veterinary care. Medical professionals saw 3,403 patients and provided 10,108 services with a valued market cost of $1,055,755 at no cost to the communities.
Lt. Col. Andrew Adamich, 176th Medical Group commander, said the relationships established and the positive impact on residents were life-changing. Service members received invaluable real-world experience practicing their trade in deployed settings.
“Our force needs critical thinkers and problem solvers,” Adamich said. “I was proud to see our members solve challenges with our joint partners while gaining mission-essential skills in a deployed environment.”
Staff Sgt. Oswaldo Quinoveva, a 176th MDG combat medic specialist, said the team surmounted multiple obstacles throughout the exercise.
“It was an amazing learning experience — that every person adapted to the environment and overcame challenges to execute a successful mission,” he said.