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MDG recognizes admin team

TINKER AIR FORCE BASE, Okla. -- Every member of the United States Air Force brings something special to the fight. Each of us is part of a team that coalesces into a larger whole. We support each other in so many ways that we are like a family. We are wingmen to one another. Our Air Force is the best in the world because of the symbiotic bond our team shares. One particular team of hardworking people is paid special homage at this time, the medical administration team.

These folks support the medical mission and ensure we have a fit force. "They oversee the business of healthcare," says Lt. Col. Timothy Dykens, 72nd Medical Support Squadron commander. The medical administration team consists of Medical Service Corps and Health Services Management , Logisticians and Medical Maintenance enlisted members. During the week of Oct. 26-30, the Air Force showcases these extraordinary people for what they do.

The MSCs are the officer side of the team. They provide leadership to Medical Resource Management, Medical Logistics, Information Systems, Medical Readiness/Disaster Preparedness, TOPA/TRICARE, Group Practice Management, and other areas as needed.

"The expectations and level of responsibilities on our MSCs are much higher than their civilian counterparts," according to Colonel Dykens.

The enlisted administrators are responsible for the orchestration of medical and non-medical information. Whether working with medical records, coordinating outside patient referrals, delivering information technology services, streamlining manpower and budget requirements, or ensuring the Medical Group members are ready to deploy at a moment's notice.

The logisticians, affectionately called "Log Dogs," are another integral part of a treatment facility. They purchase, stock, and inventory medical and non-medical supplies and equipment.

The Medical Equipment Repair Office, ensures the medical equipment functions properly. In facility management, the logisticians run the safety, maintenance, and housekeeping. Logistics also runs contract services that oversees the array of contractors.

When deployed, MSCs provide leadership, coordinate triage efforts and synchronize the casualty collection and treatment areas. The enlisted members receive wounded from helicopters, aid doctors in triage and scribing, organize air evacuation, or amass surgical supplies and equipment; all to ensure the survival and recovery of our war fighters.

Whether in peacetime or wartime operations, the Medical Administration Team is essential to patient care. They lead and support the clinical, administrative, and logistical facets of treatment facility. Without them the medical mission would most certainly falter.