Empowering Warfighters: Military Health System Leader Highlights Critical Support for Service Members and Their Families

Recently, Dr. Stephen Ferrara, the acting Assistant Secretary of Defense for Health Affairs, visited Womack Army Medical Center (WAMC) at Fort Bragg. His focus was on how the Military Health System (MHS) supports service members and their families. He believes providing top-notch medical care is vital.

“Fort Bragg is a prime example of our commitment to supporting warfighters,” Ferrara said. As one of the largest military bases in the U.S., with over 50,000 personnel, it plays a significant role in military readiness.

Since taking on his role in January, Ferrara has toured several military medical facilities. This firsthand experience helps him understand local challenges. “I want to be the voice of our healthcare providers,” he emphasized. This insight allows him to fight for the resources needed to improve patient care.

During his visit, Ferrara met with key staff and learned about the unique challenges faced by healthcare providers at WAMC. He also recognized outstanding individual contributions by presenting coins to dedicated staff members.

In a town hall meeting, Ferrara highlighted the unique nature of the MHS. “We’re the only American healthcare system that goes to war. This requires us to maintain a high level of readiness,” he noted. He believes that caring for veterans is not only crucial for their health but also for maintaining military readiness.

Collaboration between the Department of Defense and the Department of Veterans Affairs is becoming stronger. “Working together leads to better care for everyone involved,” Ferrara said. Recent data shows that seamless cooperation can significantly improve health outcomes for veterans. For example, a 2022 study revealed that coordinated efforts reduced wait times for veteran healthcare services by 22%.

Overall, the MHS is committed to providing high-quality care to soldiers and their families, emphasizing their well-being and readiness. For more information about the Military Health System, you can visit their website: Military Health System.

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