Former field medic Dr. June Gower explains what it takes to fulfill this role in the armed forces.
HOOD RIVER, OR / ACCESSWIRE/ March 25, 2022 / The role of field medic is an honorable one. Field medics save lives while serving their country. Retired field medic Dr. June Gower recently explained what it takes to fulfill this position in the armed forces.
"I am honored to have been a field medic in the Air Force and U.S. Army for 20 years," Dr. Gower said. "I'd like to inform others of what this role entails and encourage those who are interested in pursuing a position as a field medic."
What Is a Field Medic?
A field medic, also known as a combat medic, treats injured soldiers during peace and wartime. The medic often needs to stabilize wounded soldiers while awaiting care or provide long-term care in a medical facility. Combat medics often carry medical equipment while on missions.
The role of a field medic can vary. He can pursue additional education to specialize in other areas of medicine, such as orthopedics or dentistry.
Becoming a Field Medic
Becoming a combat medic requires achieving testing and educational requirements. A field medic must undergo training specific to his role. The following are the steps to becoming a field medic.
High School Diploma or GED
An individual must have a GED or high school diploma. Previous experience in the medical field, such as working as a paramedic or nurse, improves a person's chances of being selected for this role.
Apply for the Armed Forces
A field medic must join a branch of the armed services before taking the position. Men and women between the ages of 17 and 34 can perform this role. Only U.S. citizens and green card holders can join the U.S. armed forces.
A recruiter can help you join the armed forces and apply to become a combat medic.
Complete Testing
Dr. June Gower stated that everyone who enters the armed forces must take an Armed Services Vocational Aptitude Battery (ASVAB) test. This test includes math, electronics, reading, and science problems. The results of the ASVAB test help the military determine which an individual will fulfill.
An individual must have an ASVAB score of 107 or greater on the general technical section of the test and 101 or higher on the skilled technician section. Combat medics must also pass a physical examination.
Combat Medic Training
All field medics must complete two training rounds, including basic combat training, and complete advanced individual training (AIT). Advanced individual training lasts between 16 and 68 weeks, depending on the area of medicine the combat medic is studying.
Advanced individual training includes first-aid, CPR, wound care, trauma medicine, and more.
Former Field Medic Dr. June Gower
After 11 years of working as an enlisted Sargent, Dr. June Gower completed her Bachelor's degree and transitioned into Officer status as a New Nurse. Many of the Armed Services have transition programs for those wishing to complete a degree and become an officer. After performing numerous healthcare roles in the Armed Services for 20 years she retired from the Surgeon General's Office in DC. She received many military awards, including Meritorious Service, multiple Achievement Medals, the National Defense Service Medal, Southwest Asia Service Medal, and the Kuwait Liberation Medal from the Government of Kuwait.
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SOURCE: Private Government HealthCare Organization