MCENTIRE JOINT NATIONAL GUARD BASE, S.C. - The 169th Medical Group hosted the skill-based joint medical training initiative MEDFLAG 2024 May 2-3.
This event, created out of necessity during the COVID-19 pandemic, has emerged as an opportunity for medical personnel to collaborate and remain proficient in essential skills. Participants included community health providers and military units from across North and South Carolina, including active-duty personnel.
“MEDFLAG serves as a cornerstone for enhancing the readiness and proficiency of medical personnel, equipping them with the necessary expertise to respond effectively to a diverse range of medical emergencies and operational scenarios,” said U.S. Air Force Col. Jeffrey Smith, 169th Medical Group commander. “The importance of such training cannot be overstated. Not only does it ensure that medical professionals remain up to date with the latest protocols and procedures, but it also fosters collaboration and synergy among various health care providers and military units.”
Community and military partners participated as trainers and trainees during the two-day training. Drawing upon their expertise, they provided hands-on exercises and immersive simulations of real-world scenarios. The dynamic training is tailored to address the evolving needs of modern health care and military operations.
“One of the distinctive features of MEDFLAG is the participation from a wide spectrum of health care providers, including civilian practitioners, nurses, emergency medical technicians and military personnel,“ Smith said. “This diversity not only enriches the learning experience but also promotes cross-disciplinary collaboration and knowledge exchange.”
By bringing together stakeholders from both sectors, the 169th Medical Group aims to facilitate coordination and communication during joint medical operations, enhancing emergency response efforts.
MEDFLAG stands as a testament to the resilience and adaptability of medical professionals in the face of adversity. By embracing innovation and collaboration, participants enhanced their skills and contributed to the collective strength of health care systems and military units across South Carolina.