JBSA-FORT SAM HOUSTON –
In support of National Women's Health Month in May, Army Medicine is looking to raise awareness, educate and empower women to make their health a top priority and encourage them to take steps to improve their physical, mental, emotional and spiritual health.
In 2011, Army Medicine established the Women's Health Task Force - a team of subject matter experts in a variety of disciplines from the Army, sister services and outside agencies - to address the unique health concerns of women serving in the military.
The WHTF is leading organizational change and shaping education, equipment and care for a unified campaign across commands and services as we expand and advance roles of women throughout the force.
The task force's initiatives are designed to optimize and standardize services to women across all services, including the development of clinical treatment algorithms for common gynecological conditions, and standardized women's health education for all Soldiers, leaders and providers.
In addition, the Women's Health Service Line was established as part of the Army Medicine 2020 campaign plan and operating company model. The WHSL will align efforts to meet the priorities set by Lt. Gen. Patricia Horoho, commanding general of Army Medical Command and Army surgeon general.
These priorities include adopting evidence-based practices for coordinated and patient-centric care. By developing strategy that establishes system-wide services and policies, the WHSL promotes collaboration, decreases redundancy and unwarranted clinical variance, and ultimately improves the quality and satisfaction of care to women beneficiaries.
The Women's Health Service Line is closely aligned with Soldier 2020 - the Army's plan to integrate women into previously closed military occupational specialties - as part of the Army Medical Department's enduring effort to support the integration of women into previously closed jobs and units.
Female service members serve in our nation's military, making up 15.8 percent of the force today, including active duty, Reserve and Guard.
The percentage of females continues to grow, up about 4 percent from 20 years ago.
Army Medicine recognizes the magnitude and impact of women's health and appreciates the unique challenges of being a woman in the Army whether Soldier, family member or veteran.
In order for women to be fully integrated and effective members of the team, the Army must ensure women's unique health needs are addressed.