Theater Aeromedical Evacuation

File: 970207_aadcu_018.txt
Page: 018
Total Pages: 36

                                    MEDICAL LESSONS LEARNED
                                         DESERT SHIELD/STORM

       CATEGORY: Communications
      
       ISSUE/ITEM:
      
       SUBJECT: Command and Control
      
       BACKGROUND: Operation Just Cause had demonstrated a limitation of available
       communications at both the base and MAJCOM level in San Antonio. Early in
       Operation Desert Shield, expanded communication lines and data support was
       installed to support contingency needs and the planned casualty reception
       mission.
      
      DISCUSSION: Capabilities which were expanded/implemented included: two digit
      direct dial hot lines to connect medical treatment facilities/MAJCOM SGs/SGXs,
      the ASF, and support functions (to include connectivity at alternate sites);
      secure datafax; commercial lines; additional STU IIIs; and development of a
      patient data system supported via T-1 links and lap top computers/modems. The
      patient database was used to capture patient and family data and linked all
      functions related to casualty reception, i.e., military ASF/ MTF,NDMS facilities,
      the VA, American Red Cross, Family Support Center, PA and others. Modem link to
      all ATC casualty receiving hospitals is planned. (See Atttachments)
      
       ACTION RECOMMENDED:
      
                 (1) Support/fund medical communications projects for this purpose.
      
                 (2) Explore development of similar database for Air Force use or
      replication in other MAJCOMs.
      
      SUGGESTED OPRs/OCRs: HQ USAF/SGHR/MWHIO/AFOMS

      SUBMITTER: Terry W. Clarke/Capt/HQ ATC/SGAX
                                 [(b)(2)]
      						                              2 Atchs
      					                                            1. Casualty Reception Directory
      						                              2. Users Guide