Taking Military Medicine to New Frontiers: A Conversation with Lieutenant General Robert I. Miller, MD Surgeon General of the US Air Force and US Space Force

Episode Summary:

In this episode, we enjoyed exploring the world of military medicine with Lieutenant General Robert I Miller, MD, Surgeon General of the US Air Force and US Space Force. We discussed his journey into Air Force Medicine, the importance of pediatrics in military medicine, and the unique challenges of ensuring a ready medical force prepared for future conflicts. We also delved into the continuous learning in military leadership roles, the challenges and accomplishments of the Defense Health Agency, and the groundbreaking mission of the Air Force Medical Service. Additionally, we explored the future of Air Force Medicine, including the development of wearables and the use of virtual medicine for patient care in various environments. Join us in this fascinating conversation as we uncover valuable insights from Lt. Gen. Miller's distinguished career.

 

Chapters:

 

(0:00:00) - Serving in Air Force Medicine

(0:03:24) - Pediatricians and GME in Air Force Medicine

(0:11:59) - Continuous Learning in Military Leadership Roles

(0:20:40) - Air Force Medic Readiness

(0:33:11) - Trusted Care in Air and Space

(0:39:12) - Air Force Medicine Impact

 

Chapter Summaries:

 

(0:00:00) - Serving in Air Force (3 Minutes)

In this episode, we explore the life and career of Lieutenant General Robert I. Miller, the Surgeon General of the US Air Force and the US Space Force. Dr. Miller shares his journey into Air Force Medicine, his clinical and leadership lessons, and his experiences as a flight surgeon and in command during contingency operations worldwide. He also discusses his top priorities as Surgeon General and the unique challenges of ensuring a ready medical force prepared for future conflicts, including multi-domain operations (MDO). Join us as we delve into the fascinating world of military medicine with Dr. Miller and gain valuable insights from his distinguished career.

 

(0:03:24) - Pediatricians in Air Force Medicine (9 Minutes)

We discuss the importance of pediatrics in military medicine and the various opportunities for pediatric residencies and fellowships in Air Force Medicine. The conversation also covers the training and responsibilities of a flight surgeon and how they differ between the Air Force, Army, and Navy. Additionally, we delve into personal experiences and memories from the front lines, including serving as a Flight Surgeon in conflict zones and the challenges of providing medical care in difficult conditions. Finally, we touch on the expeditionary medical system (EMEDS) and its role in providing life-saving surgery and care in the field.

 

(0:11:59) - Continuous Learning in Military Leadership Roles (9 Minutes)

As we delve into the impact of 9/11 on military medicine, we discuss the importance of readiness and continuous learning in leadership roles. We also explore the relevance of strategic studies and MBAs for military physicians, as well as the role of the defense health agency in supporting medical education and training. Additionally, we touch on the unique challenges faced in deployments, such as dealing with non-battle injuries and the experience of working with the US Africa Command to create stability through health initiatives.

 

(0:20:40) - Air Force Medic Readiness (13 Minutes)

We examine the challenges and accomplishments of the Defense Health Agency (DHA) and its role in training enlisted medical professionals. We also discuss the partnership between the Uniformed Services University and the DHA, which helps young medics earn degrees and certifications for their military and post-military careers. The conversation then shifts to the relationship between the DHA and the Air Force Medical Operation Agency in providing healthcare benefits and focusing on a ready medical force.

 

(0:33:11) - Trusted Care in Air and Space (6 Minutes)

In this section, we explore the groundbreaking mission of the Air Force Medical Service (AFMS) to provide trusted care anytime, anywhere, including the potential challenges of medical care in space. The MEDIC X program, created to develop multi-capable medics for various situations, is discussed along with the importance of supporting the mental health and resiliency of medics. We also touch on the significant role of medics during the COVID-19 pandemic and other recent crises, highlighting the importance of their trusted care in various challenging situations.

 

(0:39:12) - Air Force Medicine Impact (13 Minutes)

We explore the future of Air Force Medicine, including the development of wearables such as the Battlefield Assisted Trauma Distributed Observation Kit (BATDOK) and the use of virtual medicine for patient care in various environments. We also discuss the importance of the Air Force Medical Service's air evacuation mission and the role of the total force, including the Guard and Reserve, in providing lifesaving care. Additionally, we touch on the value of reading and mentorship for personal and professional growth and the significance of developmental and behavioral pediatrics in supporting military families.

 

Episode Keywords:

Military Medicine, Air Force Medicine, Lieutenant General Robert I. Miller, Surgeon General, US Air Force, US Space Force, Pediatrics, Flight Surgeon, Continuous Learning, Military Leadership, Defense Health Agency, Air Force Medical Service, Medical Readiness, Expeditionary Medical System, MEDIC X Program, Trusted Care, Battlefield Assisted Trauma Distributed Observation Kit Virtual Medicine, Air Evacuation Mission

#AirforceMedicine #MilitaryMedicine

 

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