MAXWELL AIR FORCE BASE, Ala. -- Patients served by the 42nd Medical Group will soon see changes to primary care managers and moves within the facility while moving to the operational medical readiness model.
The 42nd MDG began moving toward the new model of care Aug. 5, 2019, when two of the squadrons were re-designated, and Airmen have worked to align staff and the facility under the new construct.
“This new model will enable us to proactively manage Airmen’s care to keep them healthy and mission ready,” said Col. Jeanette Frantal, 42nd MDG commander. “While most of the changes are happening behind the scenes, some of our patients will see changes to their primary care manager.”
Some providers will physically move spaces in the building, so patients will check in at different locations. The moves aren’t expected to occur until the beginning of November, and Airmen and their families will have clear directions of where to sign in, Frantal said.
“We’ve moved primary care managers between the two squadrons in order to meet the objectives for this new model,” Frantal said. “We understand that our patients develop a relationship with their PCM and continuity of care is important, which is why we’ve worked to minimize the moves to the greatest extent possible.”
The new model won’t impact pharmacy, laboratory, or radiology operations or the other support functions currently provided by the MDG. According to the Air Force Medical Service, primary care teams will be more proactive and involved with Airmen’s health, and will also have more interaction with commanders.
“At the end of the day, our focus is ensuring Airmen are medically ready and healthy to support the combatant commanders when the nation calls,” Frantal said. “As the Air Force works to restore readiness, we have to drive a cultural transformation to improve care for our Airmen.”