December 2011

Pacific Regional Medical Command Imua: One Team Volume 1, Issue 1

DECEMBER 2011
HI simulation center PRMC aims
receives national nod to improve
This month has been set
aside for Soldiers and their

reach with
families to enjoy the holi-
days. Commemorations STEPHANIE BRYANT “The old paradigm used to be ‘See
and ethnic observations Tripler Army Medical one; Do one; Teach one,’ and now it’s
were cut down from more
than 100 to a more man-
agable level reducing the
Center Public Affairs
HONOLULU — The Medical Simu-
moving toward ‘Simulate one; Do
one; Teach one,’” said Maj. Taylor publication
lation Center, here, recently achieved Sawyer, medical simulation director.
burden on affected offices PACIFIC REGIONAL
the Society for Simulation in Health- “This (evolution) is very important
and allowing a greater ef- MEDICAL COMMAND
care accreditation. (to medical training).”
fort to be put in for priority News Release
TAMC is the second simulation Sawyer explained that right out of
commemorations. medical school a lot of the residents HONOLULU — If you’re reading
center in the Department of Defense
haven’t experienced or this, you’re looking at just one of the
to achieve this accredi-
November’s commemora- performed any proce- exciting new initiatives underway at
tation and the only one
tion focused on American dures. the Pacific Regional Medical Com-
in Hawaii and Pacific
Indians and their rich his- Andrews said this is mand.
region.
tory with the Army. why simulation is so The Pulse of the Pacific, a
Ruth Andrews, the
See page 8 important now in medi- monthly newspaper published by
simulation center’s ad-
cal training facilities. PRMC’s Strategic Communication
ministrator, said the
“In simulation, you can practice and Public Affairs Office, is a brand
JOINT AUTISM SUPPORT center’s main focus is graduate medi-
as often as you want without risk of new digital publication meant to keep
cal education programs, but they sup-
Medical clinics and health injuring anyone,” Andrews said. “You health staff and Soldiers, and most
port all graduate professional health
care providers work hand- use it to build your skills and your importantly the region’s beneficiaries
programs such as nursing, physicians
in-hand with EFMP to knowledge.” up-to-date on health-related news.
assistant, and even staff training.
provide support to families “The bottom line is patient safety,” Other initiatives include adopt-
The center has a variety of simula-
with autistic children. she added. ing a regional logo and crest instead
tors from simple task trainers all the
See page 5 Sawyer said the validation is a of using Army Medical Command’s
way through the high-fidelity simu-
or Tripler’s; setting up separate
lators that allow training on many
-See SSH page 8 -See PULSE page 4
DISASTER RELIEF skills.

Two Tripler Army Medi-
cal Center Public Health New screening helps Korea-based Soldiers ent in 32 out of 37 Army posts, to A key feature of the program is
Officers deploy in support HARVEY HALL, RN
of Hurricane Irene and Area II RESPECT-MIL, include overseas locations in Europe telephonic interaction with a nurse
Tropical Storm Lee in New MEDDAC-Korea and Korea. Since the program’s care facilitator; Once a month, and
York. inception in 2007, more than 1.1 mil- as needed, calls with a trusted nurse
See page 7 U.S. ARMY GARRISON-YONG- lion service members were screened advocate assists the service member
SAN, Korea — The Yongsan Health for depression and PTSD. About 13 with adherence to the treatment
WHAT’S INSIDE Clinic started a new screening pro- percent of those visits were positive plan. The nurse communicates with
Notes from the Top..........2 gram in July 2011 and its successes for either a possible depression and/ the patient, PCM and behavioral
Ask the Dietician..............2 are mounting. or PTSD assessment. Of those who health specialists to maximize adher-
MEDDAC-Korea................3 The Re-Engineering Systems of had positive screens, about 1 percent ence and service member well-being.
Schofield Barracks Primary Care and Treatment in had a risk for suicide. The goal of the program is remission.
Health Clinic.....................4 the Military program, more com- Initial screening is provided by The RESPECT-MIL program is
Employee Spotlight..........4 monly referred to RESPECT-MIL, is medics and nurses. The screening expected to expand to both Area I
Warrior Ohana designed to screen service members, information is then presented to a and Area II clinics in the 2012 as well
Medical Home..................5 including KATUSAs, or Korean primary care manager (PCM) who as other military services in the near
MEDDAC-Japan................6 Augmentees to the U.S. Army, for can determine if any treatment op- future.
Warrior Transition depression and post traumatic stress tions are needed. Each case is indi-
For more information, contact the
Battalion...........................7 disorder. vidualized, confidential and assessed
In Brief..............................8 Initially piloted in Fort Bragg,
N.C., RESPECT-MIL is now pres-
according to the needs of the service
member.
 RESPECT-MIL office at DSN 725-
5119 or visit www.pdhealth.mil/
respect-mil/index.asp.

Pulse of the Pacific December 2011

PRMC 6 charges staff, Ask the Dietician
patients to strive for best CAPT. JOY METEVIER free gum while you are cooking or
when you are finished with a meal
BRIG. GEN. KEITH GALLAGHER We cannot improve without Tripler Army Medical Center
Commanding General, Pacific knowing how we’re doing. Nutrition Care Division to avoid “picking” on food outside
Regional Medical Command and I also ask that our health care of meal time.
“What are the most important
Tripler Army Medical Center providers to look collectively at 4. Manage portions. Use appro-
things to know about managing
their clinics, departments or pa- priate serving utensils for casserole
holiday weight gain?”
Aloha, I want to thank the Pacific tient care unit scores and deter- and starch dishes (they should be
Regional Medical Command pub- mine how you’re contributing to Health professionals estimate no more than a one-cup serving),
lic affairs team for producing our the collective outcome results. three to seven pounds as the aver- serve on 7-9” plates and pre-slice
first ever Pulse of the Pacific news- Each and every one of us must age weight gain for most Ameri- desserts to encourage smaller por-
paper. work hard to build a culture of cans during the November to Janu- tions.
This medium will serve as an- patient safety, quality and respon- ary holiday season. If you are still hungry, wait at
other conduit for siveness, respect as individuals, While this may seem like a high least 15 minutes before deciding to
information flow, high performance and even higher estimate, it takes a mere 300 calo- go back for more.
interest stories, competence, trust, and pride that ries, or 2 holiday cookies, per day This will give you time to de-
and health promo- we have exhausted our energies to pack on the pounds. cide if you truly want more and
tion and services. and resources to care for our pa- Watchfulness and a realistic will keep you from making an im-
The Pulse of tients. plan are the best ways to prevent pulsive decision to grab that third
the Pacific’s pri- Our system of health staff mem- unwanted weight gain. Here are a serving of pie.
mary function will Gallagher bers are honored to care for the few tips for navigating the parade 5. Avoid drinks with calories.
be to illuminate men and women and their families of holiday parties and food focused Holiday punch, eggnog, alcohol
the accomplishments of our great of our active duty armed forces be- get togethers: and soft drinks can add hundreds
physicians, nurses, administrators, cause the service members are the 1. Be realistic. Make your goal of calories to your day. It is a good
NCOs, Soldiers, Airmen, Sailors, ones exerting the muscle move- weight maintenance vs. weight loss practice to avoid any drink with
and civilians throughout the Pa- ment for our nation in support of over the next few months. more than 10 calories per serving.
cific. overseas contingency operations. 2. Get feedback. Research shows 6. Add activity. Make a basket-
Think of what services you want We are honored to care for them that continual monitoring and ball game, an afternoon walk or few
more information on or what sto- as well as our veterans who have feedback will allow you to make games of Wii a part of your family
ries you want told in this news- served before us. small corrections through the tradition.
paper. Let the public affairs office Finally, I have set our vision of week. The important thing to remem-
know. being the #1 medical team in the Weighing yourself a few times ber is that your behaviors are ul-
We aim to provide the best qual- universe. This is not a lofty vision per week allows you to correct a timately what determine weight
ity care that we can and we want to but one that is most definitely one pound increase as soon as it gain.
make sure our patients and their achievable when each of us exerts creeps on. Going into the holiday season
families know. the drive and energy that focus on Another great tool are smart with a plan and sense of awareness
We measure our performances the patient. phone applications such as “Calorif- puts you ahead of the game and
in our HEDIS, ORYX and Patient Stay strong and resilient during ic” or “Burn the Turkey.” These pro- makes it more likely that you will
Satisfaction Surveys (APPLS). I this holiday season. Take the time vide immediate feedback on how maintain weight during the holiday
urge our beneficiaries to take the to recharge your batteries and al- to adjust diet and exercise to keep season.
time to reply to these surveys. Let ways be safe. energy balanced through the day.
us know how we’re doing on ICE at I look forward to working with 3. Avoid grazing. Small bites To submit a question for “Ask

ice.disa.mil or post a comment on all of you in 2012! Mele Kalikima- of food through the day can have  the Dietician,” send an email
to joy.metevier@us.army.mil.
one of the clinics’ Facebook walls. ka. PRMC 6 a big impact. Try chewing sugar

Pulse of the Pacific
Pacific Regional Medical Command
www.tamc.amedd.army.mil
The Pulse of the Pacific is an autho- Regional Medical Command.
rized publication for members and ben- The Pulse of the Pacific is published
eficiaries of the Pacific Regional Medical monthly by the Strategic Communica-
Commander
Command, published under the author- tion and Public Affairs Office, Pacific
Brig. Gen. Keith Gallagher
ity of Army Regulation 360-1. Regional Medical Command, 1 Jarrett
Strategic Communication Director Contents of this publication are White Road, Honolulu, Hawaii 96859.
Jan Clark not necessarily the official views of, Comments or submissions for the
or endorsed by, the Department of Pulse of the Pacific should be directed to
Editor Defense, Department of the Army, U.S. the editor at 808-433-5783 or by email at
Stephanie Rush Army Medical Command or the Pacific medcom.prmc.pao@gmail.com.


Tele-Medicine officially opens its doors in HI
JAN CLARK ting past the “what are you going to
Pacific Regional Medical think about me is a challenge,” said
Command Public Affairs Brig. Gen. Keith Gallagher, com-
mander of PRMC and TAMC.
TRIPLER ARMY MEDICAL “Soldiers like it, and in many
CENTER, Hawaii — The culmina- cases prefer it. The bottom line is
tion of a year-long endeavor came that PRMC has a service to offer,
to fruition Nov. 28 with a grand a capability to provide,” Gallagher
opening ceremony as Pacific Re- continued. “With every redeployed
gional Medical Command’s Tele- unit virtual tele-behavioral health is
behavioral Health (Tele-Medicine) leveraged. It is available and offered
officially opened its doors, here. to those service members who want
“This event represents partner- to use it.
ship; between regional commands, “Today, the tele-behavioral
local commands, facilities and pro- health cell is a robust operation
viders of different disciplines; all serving Soldiers, Sailors, Marines
working towards a shared common and Airmen as well as their de-
goal -- that is to provide behavioral pendents worldwide,” Gallagher
health care to service members and Tripler Army Medical Center Visual Information/SORAYA ROBELLO
said. “In the Pacific, we offer care
their dependents throughout the Chaplain (Col.) Sherman Baker provided a blessing before the ceremonial lei
to Schofield Barracks patients, the
Pacific and outlying distant areas was untied, officially opening the doors to tele-medicine, at the Tele-behavioral
Health grand opening ceremony, Nov. 28 at Tripler Army Medical Center. TAMC community as well as Japan,
using tele-health technology,” said Okinawa and Korea.
U.S. Public Health Services Corps Soldiers with behavioral health travel time and costs; as well as im- “In addition, the TBH cell has
Lt. Eduardo Cua, director, Tele-be- screening and treatment, redeploy- proving health care outcomes. responded to the behavioral health
havioral Health and Surge Support. ing Soldiers from the installation This pilot demonstrated the needs in Alaska, Texas and Kansas
“It’s hard to believe, but we live participated in a Virtual Behavioral potential to streamline and improve and partnerships are being forged in
in the most isolated population cen- Health pilot conducted in the fall of behavioral health access for Soldiers the neighbor islands to support our
ter in the world. It is thousands of 2009. by identifying symptoms and the Guard and Reserve components,”
miles from the Hawaiian Islands to Through the pilot program, risk of suicide and treatment op- he said.
anywhere else,” said Dr. Ray Folen, which divided into thirds for coun- tions to improve patient outcomes. “We at TAMC and PRMC are
chief, Department of Psychology, seling options; face-to-face; high “I want to thank General Jones proud to have here on the TAMC
TAMC. “It is 2,400 miles from here bandwidth video tele-conferencing, publicly for his vision and his col- campus the means to meet the
to California. Japan is more than knowns as VTC; or low bandwidth laboration with the Western Region needs of our service members and
3,800 miles away. Defense Connect Online, or DCO, and the command there at the time their families during this criti-
“Add the fact that PRMC’s area it was discovered that these alter- and all the steps that it has taken for cal time for the Army and sister
of responsibility covers 52 percent nate means of reaching Soldiers us to be able to say this is proof of services.”
of the Earth’s surface,” Folen contin- were well-received with VTC en- principal and it does work. Soldiers
ued. “Tele-health is not an option counters rating equal with respect (service members) like it. And that’s
Read about how MEDDAC-
for us. It is an absolute necessity.” a tough sell, because if you look at
In line with the Army chief
to quality and acceptance.
The program is also effective behavioral health and you look at
 Japan is utilizing the new Tele-
Medicine Clinic on page 6.
of staff ’s directive to provide all in reducing barriers to care, stigma, the stigma that is out there, get-

Dental Cmd improves HI’s Soldiers’ access to care
PACIFIC REGIONAL Army Medical Center dental clin- waii are over,” Vreeland said. “Sol-continuity of care to our Warriors.
DENTAL COMMAND ics. diers will no longer hear a busy sig- “One phone number for our pa-
News Release The two initiatives began in June nal or the phone ringing endlessly tients to access any of our dental
HONOLULU — The Pacific Re- 2011 as a Lean without being an- clinics will certainly simplify the
gional Dental Command has Six Sigma project swered. Soldiers will
process to reach my staff,” Ball said.
teamed with Tripler Army Medi- launched by Da- now select the clinic
“We knew reaching our staff was at
cal Center to make access to dental vid Vreeland, chief, they are assigned totimes difficult. Our intent is that by
care easier for Soldiers stationed Strategy and Inno- through an auto- increasing the ability for Soldiers to
in Hawaii. PRDC is automating vation, who is as- mated voice prompt contact our clinics will result in de-
the telephone system and offering signed to the Pacific system.” creasing the appointments that are
dental text message appointment Regional Dental failed or unfilled. A phone call tell-
reminders. Command head- The Pacific Regional ing us you cannot make a scheduled
Starting Dec. 7, Soldiers now quarters. Dental Commander, dental appointment will enable us
only need to dial “4DENTAL,” or “The days of dial- Col. Randy Ball, is to give that appointment to another
433-6825, to reach any Army dental ing 10 different phone numbers in the U.S. Army Dental Command’s Soldier.”
clinic in Hawaii, to include Scho- an effort to reach one of the three strategic objective owner, whose In conjunction with automating
field Barracks, Na Koa, and Tripler Army dental clinics located in Ha- mission is to increase access and -See DENTAL page 8


PULSE
from page 1
public Internet and private Intranet sites for the re-
gion; and utilizing social media and networking sites
such as Facebook, Flickr and Twitter to better reach
beneficiaries and to provide another outlet for two-
way communication.
“Our intent for the Pulse of the Pacific and our
upcoming projects are to cover the events, programs
and services that affect everyone in the region; not
just one specific medical treatment facility or one
specific geographical location,” explained Jan Clark,
strategic communication director, Pacific Regional
Medical Command.
The Pacific region is vast; covering approxi-
mately 52 percent of the Earth’s surface, its medi-
cal facilities are primary health care providers for
Tripler Army Medical Center Public Affairs/STEPHANIE BRYANT military personnel, families and veteran beneficia-
ries.
Fleet Forces commander visits SBHC “Our beneficiaries routinely travel within the
Pacific region for medical care, whether assigned to
SCHOFIELD BARRACKS, Hawaii — Navy Adm. John Harvey, center, commander, U.S. Fleet MTFs in Japan, Korea or the Hawaiian Islands.” Clark
Forces Command, walks down a hall in the Warrior Transition Clinic, Schofield Barracks Health said. “We want to keep our patients informed of re-
Cinic, Dec. 9 reading notes left by Soldiers who have passed through the clinic during their tran- gional advances and initiatives.”
sition process. Harvey received an in depth tour of the SBHC with stops at clinics that focus the If you have any suggestions for features, other
majority of their care on the Warrior Transition Battalion Soldiers. Also pictured left to right: Col.
content or want to recommend a health care em-
Joseph Bird, commander, SBHC, Lt. Col. Ellen Barksdale, chief of Clinical Nursing, SBHC, and
Tammy O’neill, nurse manager, Warrior Transition Clinic and Concussion Clinic, SBHC. ployee (military or civilian) for recognition, email
the editor at medcom.prmc.pao@gmail.com or call
808-433-5783.

TAMC nurse celebrates 50 years of service
SGT. TERRANCE BANDY retire and I simply say, ‘not yet’” she
Tripler Army Medical Center explained. “At the age of 71, I (still)
Public Affairs enjoy coming to work.”
Thinking back over the other
TRIPLER ARMY MEDICAL changes of the hospital Remigio says
CENTER, Hawaii — There aren’t one of the more interesting changes
many people who have proof of was the pharmacy robot. The robot
their dedication with a track re- would deliver medications after be-
cord of 50 years, but Inez Remigio, ing programmed routes around the
licensed practical nurse, does. hospital.
Remigio celebrated her 50th Other memorable changes
year of federal service to the nation were the locations of the wards and
and Tripler Army Medical Center, the moves they’ve made. The emer-
Nov. 27. gency room was once located were
Born Jan. 29, 1940, Remigio the VA clinic is. The patient would
started her medical career shortly need to be wheeled up the hill to
after finishing school. After com- Pacific Regional Medical Command Public Affairs/STEPHANIE RUSH
surgery each time. The command
pleting a 12-month training pro- Inez Remigio, dermatology nurse, receives her 50-year federal service pin from
Col. Wendell Holladay, chief, Department of Nursing, at Tripler Army Medical suite was the original library and the
gram, she started working for the morgue used to be on the first floor.
Center, Nov. 30. Remigio has worked in dermatology for the past 40 years.
State of Hawaii, eventually finding “Medicine, instruments, pro-
work at Tripler after following a cedures and technology have helped
friend’s suggestion. with the department’s number and not for her.
the tube would be routed to them Asking for a change, she was so many patients over the past 20 to
“So much has changed,” she 25 years.” Remigio explained. “The
said, pointing out a few major through vacuum piping. Laughing, given the chance to work in various
she recalled how the tubes would wards. Remigio worked in the sur- most memorable thing over the last
things she’d seen over the years. 50 years (will) remain to be the staff
The biggest change she’s seen? get backed up and no messages gical clinic, adult medicine clinic,
would get to anyone. immunizations, the emergency and doctors”.
The advances in technology.
At one time the message sys- Remigio‘s first assignment was room, podiatry, proctology, and fi-
Know a PRMC employee who
tem was with the use of tubes. If you with the female surgical ward. Single nally dermatology, where Remigio
had a message for another depart- and working the midnight shift she stayed for more than 40 years.  should be recognized?
Email medcom.prmc.pao@
ment you would place it in a tube soon decided that the hours were “People ask me when I going to gmail.com to let us know!


Medical ‘home’ clinic viable alternative in HI
PACIFIC REGIONAL Stephan was born.
MEDICAL COMMAND “My family lives in Kalaeloa, so
News Release it’s really convenient,” she explained.
“But what I really like is the idea be-
KAPOLEI, Hawaii — It’s no se-
hind the medical home. It feels like
cret why patients love the Warrior
I’m in my hometown clinic with
Ohana Medical Home, a communi-
one doctor for the entire family. I
ty-based primary care clinic conve-
feel like the level of care is better be-
niently located in the Kalaeloa area,
cause they know me better.”
here.
Each patient has a team of doc-
At its heart, the WOMH is
tors and nurses who work with that
health care the way it should be –
easy to access, patient-centered, patient to promote a spirit of health
team based and quality focused. It is and wellness.
one of 21 community based medi- “We went to the clinic to kind U.S. Army Garrison-Hawaii Public Affairs/AIKO BRUM
of try it out, and the decision to Care coordinators Divina Richardson (right) and Yolanda Richardson, both li-
cal home clinics located around the censed practical nurses, manage the front desk at the Warrior Ohana Medical
continental U.S. and Hawaii. switch was made almost immedi-
Home in Kapolei. The medical facility opened earlier this year and offers an
Community based medical ately,” Ayala said. “Everyone from
alternative medical facility for retirees and families living in Hawaii.
homes are Army-run, primary care the front desk personnel to the
clinics located off-post in the com- nurses to the doctor, were patient many times that this is a service they should visit the nearest TRICARE
munities where Army families live. and took the time to answer every are accustomed to at both Schofield Service Center at Joint Base Pearl
They are inspired by patients’ ideas question. They wanted to make Barracks Health Clinic and Tripler Harbor-Hickam (offices on both
and suggestions about how health sure we were knowledgeable about Army Medical Center,” said Mary Hickam and Pearl Harbor sides),
care should be. This concept of pa- everything related to our care. You Nilges group practice manager, Schofield Barracks Health Center or
tient centered health care is being could just tell everyone enjoyed WOMH. “(Our patients) have told Tripler Army Medical Center.
adopted across both military and their job, cared about you and your me they would really appreciate it if The service centers are open
civilian health care systems. well-being.” we could have a waiting room, here, Monday-Friday, 7:30 a.m.-4:30 p.m.
For Jeanette Ayala, a Navy To better serve patients, the also. It is a much-needed service.” For questions regarding en-
spouse whose husband is assigned WOMH partnered with the Armed Enrollment is open to families rollment, contact (888) 874-9378.
to the USS Chosen, making the Services YMCA to operate a Keiki of active duty service members and
switch was a no-brainer. The year Waiting Room, a -cost child care retirees. Retirees must have TRI- Visit www.armymedicine.army.
has been one of changes; Ayala and
her husband moved here from Ja-
center for children ages 6 weeks
through 12 years, in August.
CARE Prime coverage and be under
age 64.  mil/cbmh to learn more about
Army Medicine’s community-
based medical home program.
pan in March, and in July, their son “Patients expressed to me To enroll, family members

Pediatric Dept. assists families with autism resources
STEPHANIE RUSH Surveys collected after the conference indi- Command’s Exceptional Family Member Pro-
Pacific Regional Medical cated those in attendance found the conference gram, under the Department of Pediatrics.
Command Public Affairs to be extremely helpful by letting families with The pediatrics departments work hand-in-
autistic children meet not only with resource hand with Family and Morale, Welfare and
TRIPLER ARMY MEDICAL CENTER, providers and care givers, but also with other Recreation’s EFMP to provide comprehensive
Hawaii — To continue supporting and caring families with autistic children. resources for families with autistic children. The
for families who have children with an autism “I felt more at ease (meeting) others who clinics provide medical support and services,
spectrum disorder, the Developmental Pedi- are going through the same things I’m going while FMWR’s EFMP provides social events that
atrics Clinic held a conference with more than through,” one respondent said. improve social skills and give parents a forum to
50 parents of autistic children in attendance this Respondents appreciated being updated on meet with other parents.
past October. current medical research and learning more Gamble also teaches classes for families who
“These families from our military community about what resources the Army provides. have received a new diagnosis of autism or who
have extraordinary needs for information, sup- “This is a wonderful initiative. Please sustain are new to Hawaii and seeking care.
port and opportunities for networking with oth- and broaden,” another respondent said. “We’re In addition to the conferece held in October,
er families,” said Alan Gamble, the conference’s out there and can benefit from any service that Gamble’s department worked with the Depart-
coordinator. “This is in addition to the extensive, teaches, validates and supports parents like us.” ment of Ministry and Pastoral Care and FMWR’s
evidenced based educational, medical and be- After lunch, which was provided for by the EFMP to offer a Strong Bonds weekend program
havioral care needed for the child with autism.” Department of Ministry and Pastoral Care, fam- specifically catered to families with autistic chil-
The first half of the conference focused on ilies stayed long past the conference’s end shar- dren this past March. The offices plan to team
how to support and develop siblings of an autis- ing stories with other families. up again to re-offer the program in February or
tic child and the effects raising an autistic child Gamble is a clinical social worker who works March, 2012.
can have on a marriage. During the second half, in the Developmental Pediatrics Department
a panel of subject matter experts presented in- Want to joint a local Autism Support Group?
with Project ASSIST (Augmentation of Special-
Contact your local Exceptional Family
formation and answered questions on the care needs Services and Information for Students and Member Program to find out when they
of an autistic child and the family. Teachers) and with the Pacific Regional Medical meet and information on upcoming events.


Japan’s
behavioral
services
expand
MAJ. JOHN HAMMER
BG Crawford F. Sams Health Clinic,
MEDDAC-Japan
CAMP ZAMA, Japan — U.S. Army Medical
Family Member/Lindsey O’Field Activity Japan has increased its comprehensive
A rider and his horse attempt a jump while competing in the 63rd annual BG Sams Cup Equestrian Com-
medical care for the U.S. Army Japan commu-
petition, Nov. 13, at Baji Park, Tokyo. The yearly event pairs Soldiers from MEDDAC-Japan with medical nity.
and dental students from local universities. Showa University took the cup home for the second year run- This month, Behavioral Health Services ex-
ning; their seventh win in the past decade. More than 50 students competed in this year’s event. panded its patient care options with the addi-
tion of the Tele-behavioral Health and Surge

Showa students win Support (TBHSS) team at Tripler Army Medical
Center in Hawaii.
Up until October, beneficiaries had to travel to
either U.S. Naval Hospital Yokosuka or Yokota

63rd BG Sams Cup
Air Base to receive psychiatric or specialized
psychological treatment. This meant spending
an entire day and additional money on travel-
ing.
CAPT. JAMES JUNE teract with the competitors between events, and Behavioral Health Services now connects
MEDDAC-Japan present the BG Sams Cup trophy to the winning Camp Zama beneficiaries to this specialized
team at the end of the day. behavioral health
TOKYO — Each year, a group of medical stu- Brig. Gen. Crawford Sams served as the chief care to additional
dents meet at Baji Park in Tokyo’s Setagaya Ward of the Public Health and Welfare Section in Ja- providers in Ha-
to compete in the annual equestrian competition pan after World War II and was instrumental in waii who can fur-
named for the Army general who shared a pas- improving the treatment of diseases in Japan. ther identify and
sion for both horse riding and health care. A longtime fan of horseback riding, the gen- treat their clinical
This year, the 63nd annual BG Sams Cup eral established an equestrian competition for needs.
Equestrian Competition, Nov. 13, attracted fu- medical students in 1949 and donated a trophy TBHSS was es-
ture doctors, dentists and pharmacists from which remains on display at the BG Sams AHC tablished to pro-
seven medical schools. clinic throughout the year. vide behavioral
More than 50 riders from Showa, Tokyo The event is challenging for the riders be- health services to
Medical, Jikei, Keio, Yamanashi, and Shinshu cause they do not compete with their own hors- remote locations
medical universities and Nippon Dental Univer- es. After a short time training with the horse they around the world using secured video-telecon-
sity, competed for the prized trophy. are assigned, the riders are then required to ride ference technology. Beneficiaries can now re-
The idea for an equestrian event involving the horse through a twisting course consisting of ceive the same behavioral health treatment at
only medical students was the brainchild of 10 sequential jumps in the riding arena. Camp Zama without the time and cost of travel-
the Japan Medical, Dental and Pharmaceutical They are scored based on their total time and ing across Japan.
Equestrian Federation (JMDPEF). The organiza- number of successful jumps, with a time penalty The TBHSS team consists of one psychiatrist,
tion, which formed in 1920, created the annual assessed for each jump missed. The team with 10 psychologists, three psychology technicians,
tradition in order to allow the students to com- the fastest average time wins the event. and health care administration and technologi-
pete among themselves. The course this year proved more challeng- cal support staff who work closely with MED-
The organization holds five competitions an- ing with several riders being injured after fall- DAC-Japan to deliver assessments, psychother-
nually, with the BG Sams Cup as the culminating ing during a jump or being thrown from their apy, consultation, and medication prescriptions.
event each year. mount when the horse hesitated in a jump. Referrals to TBHSS are coordinated through
The event is sponsored by the BG Sams Army At the end of this year’s competition Showa Behavioral Health Services. All eligible benefi-
Health Clinic (AHC) and coordinated with Dr. University claimed the victory and the BG ciaries can receive behavioral health treatment
Toshikazu Takagi, president, JMDPEF. Sams Cup for the second year running, and the through a referral by their primary care manag-
Each BG Sams Cup event is attended by a seventh time in 10 years. Mr. Yamazaki, a 3rd er at MEDDAC-Japan, or by calling Behavioral
group of Soldiers assigned to the clinic who year Pharmacy student, for best individual Health Services directly at 263-4610 or (046)
conduct the opening and closing ceremonies, in- performance. 407-4610.


WTB Soldiers donate to Toys for Tots
STEPHANIE BRYANT
Tripler Army Medical Center Public Affairs
SCHOFIELD BARRACKS, Hawaii — Soldiers
from the Warrior Transition Battalion gathered
together Dec. 2 to collect toys to fill a sleigh, here.
Master Sgt. Charles Owens, Warrior Transi-
tion Battalion, originally built the sleigh that he
tows behind his motorcycle in 2004. Every year
since, except for last year when he was deployed,
he has rounded up toys for Toys for Tots.
Owens, a Reservist from 9th Mission Sup-
port Command, was injured during his deploy-
ment last year and is now serving in the WTB.
“This year is very special because it is the
wounded warriors stationed in Hawaii who are
donating and giving,” said Owens. “I think that is
special. They are so used to having people take
care of them; this is there opportunity to give
back to the local community.”
The toys are being donated to children liv-
Tripler Army Medical Center Public Affairs/STEPHANIE BRYANT
ing in Hawaii and don’t go outside of the islands.
The sleigh that Owens and wife, Joanie, Sgt. Luke Harvey, Warrior Transition Battalion, helps load and organize a sleigh full of toys at the WTB
Headquarters on Schofield Barracks, Dec. 2. Soldiers from the unit came together with donations of toys
have built this year is a renovated version of the
to fill a sleigh created by one of their comrades, Master Sgt. Charles Owens.
original sleigh from 2004. This year’s sleigh has
more than 500 lights on it and is decorated in teenagers. Harvey said. “Just to know that the money I do-
honor of the holidays. He explained that he feels like children age nated will buy a toy that will put a smile on some
Owens, who has been in the Army for 27 12-15 years old can be overlooked and makes child’s face makes it all worth it.”
years, says when he drives down the road he gets an extra effort to buy gifts geared towards older The toys donated by WTB Soldiers filled
a great response from others. children. Owens’ sleigh for his ride in the 37th An-
“People honk and wave at me as they drive Sgt. Luke Harvey, WTB, donated money to nual Street Bikers United Toy Run, Dec. 4,
by,” said Owens. “I think seeing the sleigh really Owens’ effort for the purchase of more toys. which ended at Kapiolani Community College
gets people in the holiday spirit.” “The holidays are very important to me. I where members of the U.S. Marine Corps and
However, more important are the toys that come from a big family. I know what is like to go Toys for Tots Hawaii were collecting toys for the
fill the sleigh. This year Owens asked for toys for without and there is no greater gift than giving,” organization.

HI public health officers deploy, assist hurricane victims
STEPHANIE BRYANT Public Health officer, were both on and tied to their community,” he destroyed, had major or minor
Tripler Army Medical call in October and received the said. “For me, from the behavioral damage and my team went door to
Center Public Affairs tasking to travel to New York to health stand point, the thing that door,” explained Cua. “We went out
help establish an infrastructure in sticks out in my mind was watching to those homes, made sure that they
TRIPLER ARMY MEDICAL
support of the local disaster relief. people pick up the pieces of their were able to register with FEMA
CENTER, Hawaii — In late Oc-
For both of the of- lives and their amazing and made sure they had been to the
tober two of Tripler Army Medical ficers, this was their first resiliency.” disaster recovery center. The team
Center’s U.S. Public Health officers deployment for the U.S. Weeks said the de- helped them get clothing, heaters
traveled to New York State to pro- Public Health Service. ployment was an eye- and other essentials.”
vide aid to residents suffering from “It is kind of a opening experience for Cua and Weeks look forward
the devastation left by Hurricane two-part mission,” said him, as well. to future deployment opportunities.
Irene and Tropical Storm Lee. Cua. “I was part of the “As a public health “This is part of our service and
In the last week of August, first group for the (six- officer, it was a good op- mission,” said Cua. “We want to be
Hurricane Irene devastated eastern month) mission so our portunity to see how a able to get out there to promote and
New York State, just days before job was to establish an infrastruc- multi-disciplinary team can deploy advance care to people who would
Tropical Storm Lee moved in and ture to provide disaster case man- to areas in need and provide assis- have normally gone without care.”
caused historic flooding in the re- agement services to the residents of tance,” said Weeks. “We all have a lot of expertise
gion. the affected counties.” Cua agreed it was the best col- and skills in the office and we can
Lt. Eduardo Cua, director of Cua, who spent his two and a laboration between federal, state provide and make a difference for
TAMC’s tele-behavioral health pro- half weeks in the town of Owega, and county agencies that he has Soldiers and family members,” said
gram and U.S. Public Health officer, NY, said the town had been dev- ever witnessed. Weeks. “(Deployments) provide
and Lt. Cole Weeks, TAMC’s De- astated by flooding from Tropical “(Federal Emergency Man- another area to utilize our skill set
partment of Social Work and U.S. Storm Lee. agement Agency) came up with a in the field and in more remote and
“The people were so close knit list of people whose homes were isolated areas.”


In Brief
SUBMISSION GUIDELINES ·Cervical Health Awareness,
Do you know of a Pacific Regional www.nccc-online.org
Medical Command employee who ·National Glaucoma Awareness,
recently received a promotion www.preventblindness.org
(military only), an Army Com- ·National Birt Defects
mendation Medal or higher level Prevention, www.nbdpn.org
award or a Commander’s Award for ·National Radon Action,
Civilian Service? www.epa.gov/radon/nram
·Thyroid Awareness,
Employees who are receiving www.aace.com
awards and/or promotions during ·National Folic Acid Awareness
the first quarter of the fiscal year Week (Jan. 8-14),
Tripler Army Medical Center Public Affairs/STEPHANIE BRYANT (Oct.-Dec. 2011), will be listed in www.folicacidinfo.org
the January edition.
TAMC honors American Indians MARTIN LUTHER KING
Send submissions to medcom. BIRTHDAY
TRIPLER ARMY MEDICAL CENTER, Hawaii — Christine Panther, a com- prmc.pao@gmail.com. The Army takes time each January
munity member, performs a Hoop Dance at the National American In-
dian Heritage Month observance, Nov. 16 in the Kyser Auditorium, here. to honor and celebrate the legacy
HEALTH OBSERVANCES of Martin Luther King, Jr. Check
Read more about TAMC’s observance at www.army.mil/article/70526 or Check out information on upcom- with your local equal opportunity
about American Indians in the Army at www.army.mil/americanindians. ing health observances for January or equal employment opportunity
online: office about scheduled observances.

SSH Now, the center is working toward
from page 1 an accreditation with the American
representation of the center’s sig- College of Surgeons.
nificance to TAMC. “We want Tripler to be in line
“The accreditation validates edu- with all the other facilities that
cation that the people who are do- are doing medical and/or surgical
ing the simulations provide,” he simulations,” Andrews said. “A lot
said. “The data that the residents of times people look at training as
who use the program accumulated training and do not directly link it
assisted us in getting the accredita- to patient care. For us, we are really
tion. It validates the training that involved in patient care.”
they are doing. It shows that (the TAMC’s simulation center is
center) is of a high level and been open 24/7 to students who get spe-
reviewed by people outside of Tri- cial permission.
pler and found to be good.” “We try to work with residents
Andrews and Sawyer said this and staff who work all different
SSH accreditation is just the first shifts,” Andrews said. “They can Tripler Army Medical Center Public Affairs/STEPHANIE BRYANT
step for the center. They want to practice as much as they want.” Residents, medical students and staff use the medical simulation center at Tri-
help the center meet the same stan- In fiscal year 2011, the TAMC pler Army Medical Center, Hawaii, to hone their skills. Recently, TAMC’s simula-
dards as other accredited simula- Medical Simulation Center clocked tion center achieved the Society of Simulation in Healthcare accreditation, the
tion centers. more than 7,500 training hours. second Department of Defense facility to do so.

DENTAL maine Oliver, Schofield needs our beneficiaries.”
from page 3 Barracks Health Clinic, “We lose hundreds of thousands of dollars
the telephone system, all dental clinics in Hawaii who assisted us to offer each year in lost appointment opportunities
now offer Soldiers the ability to schedule their the same service to our when our patients fail to keep their scheduled
annual exams by phone. Soldiers will no longer dental patients assigned appointment,” Vreeland said.
have to use walk-in sick call hours and incur in Hawaii. We asked our patients what they want Both Ball and Vreeland said the purpose of
long wait times in the clinics to get their annual and they want text message reminders. We will these advances is to increase the readiness of the
exam completed. send a text message reminder out to those pa- war fighters here in Hawaii.
The original clinic phone numbers will re- tients that consented to receive the text 24 hours
main active until April 1, 2012 but will play a before their appointments and again 2 hours be-
voice message reminding patients of our new fore their appointment.”
“We will make every effort to ensure sched- Want to know more about Pacific Regional
telephone number -- 4DENTAL (433-6825).
Dental Command? Visit their website at
“(Text reminders) have been used at Schofield uled appointments are kept by our patients,” Ball http://www.tamc.amedd.army.mil/offices/
Barracks Health Clinic for over a year,” Vreeland said. “Text messaging is today’s Soldiers daily PRDC/PRDC.html
added. “The system is the work of Lt. Col. Ger- technology, so we adapted to the times and the

December 2011

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