Annual Report - Uniformed Services University of the Health Sciences

A HISTORY OF SUCCESSThe American military medical community has produced significant research and clinical advancesthrough the years. The First World War saw the massive application of modern medicine includingimmunization, advanced surgery, use of motor ambulances, management of shock and treatmentof psychiatric disorders. World War II brought widespread use of penicillin, mobile hospitals andextensive use of military medics on the front lines.Today, military medicine continues to lead the way in research and clinical care. The UniformedServices University of the Health Sciences (USU) plays a pivotal role in conducting military medicalresearch, and providing consultation and education programs that help the country face the manychallenges of a nation at war.The university is engaged in a wide array of research and training in areas such as traumatic brain injury(TBI), Post Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD), emerging infectious diseases and supporting the continuumof care from battlefield through rehabilitation to return to the workforce.“WEST POINT” OF MILITARY MEDICINEAt the end of World War II, the United Statesmilitary discharged more than 10 million menand women. Among those who left service werethousands of physicians who returned to civilianpractice. Years later, recognizing the urgent needfor career military physicians, Congressman F.Edward Hébert (D-LA) introduced legislation toestablish a “West Point for doctors”— a universityoperated by the Department of Defense (DoD) tofoster a strong military medical system.USU was established by Congress in 1972.The university’s curriculum is similar to that of itscivilian counterparts, but it also provides additionalspecialized educational elements geared towardsproducing career uniformed officers.PREPARING FOR THE FUTUREThe university educates and trains essential healthcare providers to face today’s challenges, and it isdeeply committed to the future of military medicine.Congress’ approval of the 2005 recommendationsToday, one in four active-duty physicians are USUalumni. University graduates serve in key capacities,including significant leadership positions,critical to the successful operation of the militarymedical and public health systems. Among theroles in which alumni have distinguished themselvesare as members of the White House Presidentialmedical detail, heading terrorism and disasteremergency preparedness and response teamsand providing care and medical leadership duringoverseas military operations. USU’s relevance isconsiderable, more so today than at any point inits history. In a rapidly changing world, universitygraduates are shaping the future of military andpublic health.of the Base Realignment and Closure committeepaves the way for the university’s future as astate-of-the-art academic health center. CombiningWalter Reed Army Medical Center and theNational Naval Medical Center —with USU at itsacademic core—the Walter Reed National MilitaryMedical Center will create a world-class academichealth system that offers the highest quality care,distinguished health education and exemplarybasic and applied research.“While approximately one quarter of all new physiciansentering the military today are USU alumni, they have adisproportionate impact on military leadership by dintof their specialized training and preparation as leaders.”S. Ward Casscells, III, M.D.,Assistant Secretary of Defense for Health Affairs (pictured center)2