28th MDG sets the bar for patient care

Blake Greenfield, 28th Medical Operation Squadron physician assistant, performs a check-up at Ellsworth Air Force Base, S.D., April 6, 2015. The collective efforts of members from the Ellsworth Family Health Clinic led to the winning of the 2014 Air Force Medical Service Outstanding Patient Center Medical Home award. (U.S. Air Force photo by Airman 1st Class Rebecca Imwalle/Released)

28th MDG recognized by national organization

Published Nov. 17, 2015
By Senior Airman Rebecca Imwalle
28th Bomb Wing Public Affairs

ELLSWORTH AIR FORCE BASE, S.D. -- The 28th Medical Group earned the 2015 Facility-Based Healthcare Award from the Association of Military Surgeons of the United States for their outstanding service and effectiveness throughout 2015.

AMSUS has nearly 8,000 members, representing all healthcare disciplines in all uniformed services, both active and reserve components, as well as the Department of Veterans Affairs and other federal agencies.

"We work very hard here to make the mission happen," said Maj. Lori Walker, 28th MDG family health flight commander.

This award recognizes a team or individual who has provided outstanding service, diagnostics, treatment and rehabilitation in a federal medical treatment facility.

"We have 98 percent access to care, and this metric is derived from customer service questionnaires regarding appointment availability," Walker said. "With more than 2,900 walk-in appointments secured throughout the year, we strive to do the best for our patients. Their access and needs come first."

In efforts to improve access to care, they perform six support staff protocols, which allow technicians and nurses to evaluate sore throats, pregnancy tests, and other minor procedures through walk-in services, creating more available appointments and saving $455,000 throughout the year.

"I've been to a lot of bases," Walker said. "This is the first place that achieving the mission is truly a team effort. We were happily surprised that we won, and we can't wait to bring our trophy home."