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87th MDG scores ‘Excellent’ on inspection

  • Published
  • By Airman Ryan Throneberry
  • Joint Base McGuire-Dix-Lakehurst Public Affairs
JOINT BASE MCGUIRE-DIX-LAKEHURST, N.J. --  The 87th Medical Group scored a 91 during the Health Services Inspection Oct. 10 through 14 here.

The inspection team rated the 87th MDG as an 'Excellent' based on a combined evaluation on leadership, expeditionary and in-garrison medical operations.

This was the first inspection of its kind since the installation became a joint base, said 1st Lt. Trevor Sleight, Bioenvironmental Engineer 87th Aerospace Medicine Squadron.

Inspectors noted that since the joint base realignment in 2009, the 87th MDG has enthusiastically embraced their expanded joint base responsibilities, demonstrating an ability to meet all challenges.

Conducting the inspection was the Air Force Inspection Agency and the Accreditation Association for Ambulatory Health Care.

AFIA evaluated the 87th MDG's ability to fulfill their health service support missions, which include provision of medical care, success in training and equipping deployable personnel, and support of the installation mission. The AAAHC accreditation team focused on the group's ability to improve and enhance the quality and effectiveness of health care in outpatient settings.

The 87th MDG personnel prepared for this examination for more than a year, according to Capt. Andrew Gawlikowski, Clinical Pharmacy Services officer in charge. He coordinated with medical group leadership and Airmen to assemble the required documentation, which played a key role in the representation and quality of medical service here. The initial Aug. 28 start date was pushed back six weeks due to Hurricane Irene's arrival.

When the day finally came, Gawlikowski knew the 87th MDG was ready for the inspection.

The combined military and civilian inspection team dissected data representing the past three years in patient care, training and overall readiness during the first two days. Nurse walk-throughs, comprehensive record reviews, and rigorous interviews of the program managers were also part of the analysis conducted by the inspection team.

The week long inspection process delved into every detail of the 87th MDG yielding constructive feedback which will prove fruitful for the medical staff in the future.

"I'm definitely glad it's over," said Gawlikowski. "It was certainly a challenge for everyone, but anything worthwhile is difficult. It was a great learning experience for the people involved and edifies the military mindset and demeanor of working as a team to achieve success.

Overall, the inspection and accreditation teams reported that the 87th MDG is fulfilling the health care needs of its population in an excellent manner.

"I am extremely proud of all our outstanding Combat Medics," said Col. James Burks, 87th MDG commander. "The results reflect a lot of preparation and I am thrilled with the outcome of this inspection and accreditation survey. This report also provides us a roadmap in some areas we need to improve, so we can execute our mission even better."

To make an appointment with the 87th MDG, call (866) DRS-APPT.