MEDICAL LESSONS LEARNED

File: aaata_18.txt
Page: 18
Total Pages: 36
                                      MEDICAL LESSONS LEARNED
                                        DESERT SHIELD/STORM


         CATEGORY:  Communications

         ISSUE/ITEM:

         SUBJECT:  Command and Control

         BACKGROUND:   Operation Just Cause had  demonstrated  a  limitation  of  available
         communications at both the base and MAJCOM level in San Antonio.          Early  in
         Operation Desert  Shield,  expanded  communication  lines  and  data  support  was
         installed  to  support  contingency  needs  and  the  planned  casualty  reception
         mission.

         DISCUSSION:  Capabilities  which  were  expanded/implemented included: two  digit
         direct dial  hot lines to connect medical  treatment  facilities/MAJCOM  SGs/SGXs,
         the ASF, and support functions  (to  include  connectivity  at  alternate  sites);
         secure datafax; commercial lines;  additional  STU  IIIs;  and  development  of  a
         patient data system supported via T-1 links  and  lap  top  computers/modems.  The
         patient database was used to capture  patient  and  family  data  and  linked  all
         functions related to casualty reception,  i.e.,  military ASF/MTF,NDMS  facilities,
         the VA, American Red Cross, Family Support Center, PA and others.  Modem  link  to
         all ATC casualty receiving hospitals  is  planned.  (See Attachments)

         ACTION RECOMMENDED:

                      (1) Support/fund medical communications projects  for  this  purpose.

                      (2)  Explore development of similar database for  Air  Force  use  or
         replication in other MAJCOMs.

         SUGGESTED OPRs/OCRs:  HQ USAF/SGHR/MWHIO/AFOMS

         SUBMITTER:  [(b)(2)]              HQ ATC/SGAX


                                                          2 Atchs
                                                          1 - Casualty Reception Directory
                                                          2.  Users Guide