Medical Group faces severe personnel shortages

  • Published
  • By Staff Sgt. Brian Stives
  • 366th Fighter Wing Public Affairs Office
MOUNTAIN HOME AIR FORCE BASE, Idaho --  The 366th Medical Group is currently facing significant personnel shortages due to duty station changes, separations and deployments.

"We have deployed three of our six family practice providers, 17 of 45 medical technicians, our only psychiatrist, our only internal medicine physician, one of two general surgeons, two of our four operating room technicians and various other staff," said Col. Jerrold N. Flyer, 366th MDG commander. "Our success during this time of critical staffing shortage requires a strong partnership and open lines of communication between our patients and staff."

As of Sept. 1, several changes will take effect in order to ensure appropriate care for all 366th MDG beneficiaries.

"These changes are not permanent and should be rescinded around March, when our deployed staff members return," said Colonel Flyer.

Effective immediately, all non-active duty beneficiaries enrolled in the family practice clinic with acute healthcare needs will need to utilize the Urgent Care Center or obtain a referral for off-base care. The UCC is open 24-hours-a-day, seven-days-a-week and sees patients on a walk-in basis in order of urgency. To obtain a one-time referral to see an off-base provider for an acute issue, patients will need to call the central appointment line at 828-7900. A referral must be received prior to seeking off-base care to ensure proper payment coverage and avoid any unnecessary personal liability. For all other healthcare needs, call the appointment line for an appointment in the clinic.

All non-active duty beneficiaries under the age of 18 enrolled in the family practice clinic will utilize the pediatric clinic for all healthcare needs. The UCC will remain available for urgent care needs.

Non-active duty beneficiaries residing outside the Mountain Home area are encouraged to seek a civilian primary care manager in their local area. Call 1-888-TRIWEST or visit the local TRICARE service center in the 366th MDG to request a PCM change if desired. For a listing of approved PCMs, visit www.triwest.com.

"On Sept. 12, our hours of operation on Fridays will change from 8:30 a.m. to 4:30 p.m.," said Colonel Flyer. "Other hours of operation will remain unchanged.

"Despite the staffing challenges created by wartime requirements, we at the 366th Medical Group remain committed to providing timely, appropriate healthcare to all our beneficiaries," said Colonel Flyer.