The 459th ARW hosts DHB to discuss patient movement, challenges

  • Published
  • By Maj. Tim Smith
  • 459th Air Refueling Wing

The 459th Air Refueling Wing welcomed nearly 20 governing members of the Defense Health Board on Dec. 1, 2022 for an introduction to the unit’s medical missions.  Led by the president of the DHB, Karen Guice, M.D., the members requested an opportunity to see the pivotal role medical units at Joint Base Andrews play in the global patient movement pipeline and the challenges faced in supporting this critical effort. The board visited and met with medical commanders and personnel from the 459th Aeromedical Evacuation Squadron, the 459th Aeromedical Staging Squadron, and the 459th Aerospace Medicine Squadron before heading to the active-duty side of the base to continue its tour with the Air Force District of Washington and the 316th Wing. The medical units provided briefings and training demonstrations to give the board members an active hands-on view of their purpose and skill applied to combat scenarios. The Defense Health Board is a Federal Advisory Committee to the Secretary of Defense that provides independent advice and recommendations on matters pertaining to the health care of servicemembers.