Fort Drum Medical Activity

09/25/2021

September is National Childhood Obesity Awareness Month.

Sponsored by the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), National Childhood Obesity Awareness Month is a time to promote healthy growth in children.

#DYK, in 2017-2018, more than 14.4 million children and adolescents in the United States were obese. Childhood obesity can lead to negative impacts on children’s emotional and physical health. For more information on healthy eating and developing healthy habits for children, go to https://go.usa.gov/xMRkr.

#ArmyMedicine is #ArmyStrong!

September is National Childhood Obesity Awareness Month.

Sponsored by the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), National Childhood Obesity Awareness Month is a time to promote healthy growth in children.

#DYK, in 2017-2018, more than 14.4 million children and adolescents in the United States were obese. Childhood obesity can lead to negative impacts on children’s emotional and physical health. For more information on healthy eating and developing healthy habits for children, go to https://go.usa.gov/xMRkr.

#ArmyMedicine is #ArmyStrong!

09/24/2021

Hispanic Heritage Month Spotlight:

Today, we recognize Annubis A. Ruberte, property book officer and CERP manager for the MEDDAC Logistics Division and Property Book Office. Annubis is from Puerto Rico and has been a member of the MEDDAC team since 2017.

When asked how he celebrates Hispanic Heritage Month, he said, “I celebrate Hispanic Heritage Month by listening to Hispanic music.”

During Hispanic Heritage Month, the #USArmy commemorates and celebrates the contributions of Hispanic Americans to our Nation, society and culture.

#ArmyMedicine is #ArmyStrong!

#HispanicHeritageMonth #peoplefirst

Hispanic Heritage Month Spotlight:

Today, we recognize Annubis A. Ruberte, property book officer and CERP manager for the MEDDAC Logistics Division and Property Book Office. Annubis is from Puerto Rico and has been a member of the MEDDAC team since 2017.

When asked how he celebrates Hispanic Heritage Month, he said, “I celebrate Hispanic Heritage Month by listening to Hispanic music.”

During Hispanic Heritage Month, the #USArmy commemorates and celebrates the contributions of Hispanic Americans to our Nation, society and culture.

#ArmyMedicine is #ArmyStrong!

#HispanicHeritageMonth #peoplefirst

09/24/2021

This morning, Col. Matthew Mapes and Command Sgt. Maj. Eric Price, the Fort Drum Medical Activity commander and senior enlisted leader, respectively, hosted a commander’s call for MEDDAC and Soldier Recovery Unit Fort Drum Soldiers to recognize the unit’s outstanding performers and discuss topics of importance to the organization.

During the monthly gathering, Capt. Philip Tah, the MEDDAC and SRU chaplain, led a discussion on su***de awareness and prevention, which included sharing information on factors that lead to su***de, the importance of intervention, and how every life has value.

If you or someone you know is in crisis, reach out for help by calling the National Su***de Prevention Lifeline at 1-800-273-TALK (8255), speaking to a support person, or using one of the many behavioral interventions health resources available on the installation.

One su***de is too many, and together, we can eliminate su***de within our Army Family.

For more information on available resources, go to: https://go.usa.gov/xMRKj.

#ArmyMedicine is #ArmyStrong!

09/23/2021

Hispanic Heritage Month Spotlight:

Today, we recognize Margarita Jimenez Llanos, Primary Care Clinic medical support assistant and interim executive assistant for the MEDDAC command suite. Margarita is from Cayey, Puerto Rico and has worked at the MEDDAC for three years.

When asked how she celebrates Hispanic Heritage Month, she said, “I try to attend and support any local Hispanic Heritage events around my community during this time and through the year.”

During Hispanic Heritage Month, the #USArmy commemorates and celebrates the contributions of Hispanic Americans to our Nation, society and culture.

#ArmyMedicine is #ArmyStrong!

#HispanicHeritageMonth #peoplefirst

Hispanic Heritage Month Spotlight:

Today, we recognize Margarita Jimenez Llanos, Primary Care Clinic medical support assistant and interim executive assistant for the MEDDAC command suite. Margarita is from Cayey, Puerto Rico and has worked at the MEDDAC for three years.

When asked how she celebrates Hispanic Heritage Month, she said, “I try to attend and support any local Hispanic Heritage events around my community during this time and through the year.”

During Hispanic Heritage Month, the #USArmy commemorates and celebrates the contributions of Hispanic Americans to our Nation, society and culture.

#ArmyMedicine is #ArmyStrong!

#HispanicHeritageMonth #peoplefirst

09/23/2021

Gynecologic Cancer Awareness

September is Ovarian Cancer Awareness Month.

Gynecologic cancers are cancers of women’s reproductive organs. The five main types are cervical, ovarian, uterine, vaginal, and vulvar cancer. Click on the link below to learn the symptoms of cancers that start in a woman’s reproductive organs and how to lower your risk with the HPV Vaccine and cervical cancer screening tests.

Learn about gynecologic cancers (cervical, ovarian, uterine, vaginal, and vulvar). When gynecologic cancers are found early, treatment works best.

09/22/2021

Fort Drum rehabilitation staff, including physical therapists, occupational therapists, chiropractors, and physical therapy assistants, from the Guthrie AHC, 10th Mountain Division Health and Holistic Fitness, and the VA, attended the Mechanical Diagnosis and Therapy (MDT) part B course, Sept. 17-19, 2021. The course focused on the application of the McKenzie Method of MDT for the cervical and thoracic spine.

MDT was first introduced to the Army in 2000 in 3rd Bn., 75th Ranger Rgmt. and was said to be “the best non-combat purchase by the Regiment in the last 50 years” by the battalion commander.

Since then, the MDT has been used across various #USArmy organizations to diagnose and treat musculoskeletal injuries, which account for more than half the medically non-deployable military population.

#ArmyMedicine is #ArmyStrong!

09/22/2021

Congratulations to Spc. Jaewoo Jeong, medical laboratory specialist, for being named the Soldier of the Month for the MEDDAC’s Medical Company (Fort Drum MEDCO Yetis).

Jeong earned the title after his outstanding performance during the company first sergeant’s board, measuring the Soldier’s leadership, intellect, professional competence, physical presence and moral character. #ArmyMedicine is #ArmyStrong!

09/21/2021

Yesterday, the 2nd Brigade Combat Team, 10th Mountain Division Embedded Behavioral Health (EBH) clinic conducted an open house for brigade and MEDDAC command teams. The informal visit gave company, battalion, and brigade leaders the opportunity to meet the behavioral health team, tour the facility, and learn more about the service offered at the EBH for 2BCT Soldiers.

Located within walking distance of the Soldiers’ place of duty, EBH teams provide improved access to behavioral health care for active-duty Soldiers, increasing the mission readiness of operational units while providing care for Soldiers as early as possible.

More than 91% of Soldiers receiving care have no duty limitations and seeking care is supported at the highest levels. If you have questions about Fort Drum behavioral health services or would like to speak to a behavioral health provider, visit or call one of the EBH teams or our Behavioral Health Clinic. Information can be found here: https://go.usa.gov/xM8eS.

09/20/2021

September is Su***de Prevention Awareness Month.

Take a moment to check in on your friends, work buddies, family members, and loved ones. If you’re in need, don’t hesitate to ask for help. Spread the word about key resources such as the National Su***de Prevention Lifeline, which can be reached by calling 1-800-273-TALK (8255), and Fort Drum Behavioral Health Services: https://go.usa.gov/xM8eS.

Together, we can prevent su***de. Together, we are #ArmyStrong!

09/20/2021

Hispanic Heritage Month.mp4

National Hispanic Heritage Month is celebrated Sept. 15 through Oct. 15.

Hispanic Americans have a unique and storied history in the #USArmy, serving and fighting in every war since our nation’s birth.

Today, Hispanic American Soldiers comprise more than 15% of America’s Army. Join us as we celebrate the Soldiers, Army Civilians, and family members who have contributed, and continue to contribute, to our Army and our Nation. #ArmyMedicine is #ArmyStrong!

#HispanicAmericanHeritage

09/17/2021

Samaritan COVID-19 Visitor Restrictions - Samaritan Health

As a reminder, in compliance with NYS Department of Health guidance and to prevent the spread of COVID-19, the Samaritan Medical Center, including its medical offices, has enacted strict visitor restrictions.

* This policy includes the Fort Drum OB/GYN clinic at Samaritan.*

Clinic Policy - No support persons are allowed to accompany patients into the clinic with the following exceptions:
- Patients under the age of 21 may have one parent/guardian as an essential support person.
- Patients with intellectual and/or developmental disabilities or cognitive impairment.

Labor and Delivery Policy – Two designated support persons per patient are permitted.
- Support persons may accompany the patient throughout labor, delivery, and the immediate postpartum period, including recovery until discharge to home.
- The support persons should be prepared to stay with the mother for long periods of time, assuming they have essential items such as clothing, medications, etc.
- Support persons may leave and return once a day.
- The Car-Freshner Center for Women and Children’s entrance on Sherman and Pratt Street will be used for exiting and returning,
- Support persons will be screened upon re-entry each time.

Information on the Samaritan Medical Center COVID-19 Visitor Restrictions, go to: https://samaritanhealth.com/samaritan-medical-center-begins-visitor-restrictions/

Updated August 25, 2021 In an effort to protect our patients, families, visitors, and staff against the spread of infection and in the accordance with New York State Department of Health (NYSDOH) guidance, Samaritan Medical Center has implemented the following visitation and support person policy ef...

09/11/2021

Twenty years ago today, terrorists launched devastating attacks on the United States at the World Trade Center in New York City and at the Pentagon in Arlington, Virginia. Heroes onboard Flight 93 thwarted an additional attack by overpowering the terrorists, who subsequently crashed that aircraft into a field in Stonycreek Township near Shanksville, Pennsylvania.

Nearly 3,000 innocent people lost their lives that day, and more than 6,000 were injured. It was the most devastating attack against the U.S. homeland since Pearl Harbor on Dec. 7, 1941.

As we mark the 20th anniversary of the September 11th attacks on what has come to be known as #PatriotDay, we honor those we lost as well as those who have served and those who gave the last full measure of devotion in defense of our great Nation and allies. We pay tribute to the first responders who fearlessly rushed into collapsing buildings to help those that could be saved, and we remember the brave passengers who resisted hijackers. We will #NeverForget.

Twenty years ago today, terrorists launched devastating attacks on the United States at the World Trade Center in New York City and at the Pentagon in Arlington, Virginia. Heroes onboard Flight 93 thwarted an additional attack by overpowering the terrorists, who subsequently crashed that aircraft into a field in Stonycreek Township near Shanksville, Pennsylvania.

Nearly 3,000 innocent people lost their lives that day, and more than 6,000 were injured. It was the most devastating attack against the U.S. homeland since Pearl Harbor on Dec. 7, 1941.

As we mark the 20th anniversary of the September 11th attacks on what has come to be known as #PatriotDay, we honor those we lost as well as those who have served and those who gave the last full measure of devotion in defense of our great Nation and allies. We pay tribute to the first responders who fearlessly rushed into collapsing buildings to help those that could be saved, and we remember the brave passengers who resisted hijackers. We will #NeverForget.

09/10/2021

#DYK September is Prostate Cancer Awareness Month. Prostate cancer is the most commonly diagnosed form of cancer in men and is the second leading cancer-related cause of death in men. Prostate cancer that's detected early — when it's still confined to the prostate gland — has the best chance for successful treatment.

Learn more here: https://www.mayoclinic.org/diseases-conditions/prostate-cancer/symptoms-causes/syc-20353087

#DYK September is Prostate Cancer Awareness Month. Prostate cancer is the most commonly diagnosed form of cancer in men and is the second leading cancer-related cause of death in men. Prostate cancer that's detected early — when it's still confined to the prostate gland — has the best chance for successful treatment.

Learn more here: https://www.mayoclinic.org/diseases-conditions/prostate-cancer/symptoms-causes/syc-20353087

09/10/2021

Office of the Surgeon General of the Army National Su***de Prevention Awareness Month 2021

September is #Su***dePrevention Awareness Month and today is World Su***de Prevention Day.

We can all help prevent su***de. #BeThe1To ask, be there, keep them safe, help them stay connected, and follow up.

Learn more about your Fort Drum Behavioral Health resources here: https://guthrie.tricare.mil/Health-Services/Mental-Health-Substance-Abuse.

And, watch this video from Army Medicine's Lt. Col. La’Shonia White, Su***de Risk Management Program Manager, as she speaks about how you can make a difference in the life of someone who may feel lonely, isolated, anxious or depressed. #ArmyMedicine is #ArmyStrong!

#Su***deAwarenessMonth #KnowTheSigns

09/09/2021

Are you looking for new ways to make a positive impact on your healthcare? Join the Patient & Family Partnership Council (PFPC).

The PFPC partners patients and family members with members of the healthcare team to discuss improvements to the overall healthcare experience. Council members share suggestions and potential solutions to improve medical care.

For more information, head over to our webpage at https://guthrie.tricare.mil/Getting-Care/Patient-Rights-Responsibilities/Patient-Advocate.

… or contact the MEDDAC Patient Advocate at (315) 772-4655 or [email protected].

Are you looking for new ways to make a positive impact on your healthcare? Join the Patient & Family Partnership Council (PFPC).

The PFPC partners patients and family members with members of the healthcare team to discuss improvements to the overall healthcare experience. Council members share suggestions and potential solutions to improve medical care.

For more information, head over to our webpage at https://guthrie.tricare.mil/Getting-Care/Patient-Rights-Responsibilities/Patient-Advocate.

… or contact the MEDDAC Patient Advocate at (315) 772-4655 or [email protected].

09/08/2021

We are aware of some issues affecting our phone lines, including the Appointment Line. This is a post-wide issue affecting lines across the installation. When calling, if you experience a silent connection (phone is still connected, but there’s no tone or ringing), please wait on the line and it should connect momentarily. If you’re disconnected, please try calling back.

Additionally, you can make, change, or cancel appointments online at www.TRICAREOnline.com. You can also send messages to your care team using the TRICARE Patient Portal/Secure Messaging.

If you have an emergency, please call 911.

We are aware of some issues affecting our phone lines, including the Appointment Line. This is a post-wide issue affecting lines across the installation. When calling, if you experience a silent connection (phone is still connected, but there’s no tone or ringing), please wait on the line and it should connect momentarily. If you’re disconnected, please try calling back.

Additionally, you can make, change, or cancel appointments online at www.TRICAREOnline.com. You can also send messages to your care team using the TRICARE Patient Portal/Secure Messaging.

If you have an emergency, please call 911.

09/07/2021

Please join us in recognizing Kayla Whiting, who just completed three months as a Red Cross volunteer in the Guthrie Laboratory.

Whiting, who served as a medic with the 10th Mountain Division Sustainment Brigade, volunteered with the Red Cross here at Guthrie as part of the Army’s Career Skills Program (CSP). The CSP provides an opportunity for Soldiers to capitalize on training opportunities during their transition to post-service careers.

Knowing she was going into a phlebotomy career, Whiting looked for a way to conduct her CSP at Guthrie, and the Red Cross volunteer program provide her that opportunity.

“She has taken on the role and helped everywhere, jumping in at every opportunity and learning as much as she can,” said Tina Allen, the chief of laboratory services. “Having a volunteer wanting to do that, it makes us feel a bit more notices and that people want to be here.”

If you’re looking for an opportunity to volunteer with the Red Cross to gain medical knowledge, meet educational requirements, maintain licenses and/or certifications, or just give back to your healthcare community, contact Dustin Chaves at (315) 418-8455 or [email protected].

Learn more about volunteering with the Red Cross here: www.RedCross.org/volunteer.

#ArmyMedicine is #ArmyStrong!

Please join us in recognizing Kayla Whiting, who just completed three months as a Red Cross volunteer in the Guthrie Laboratory.

Whiting, who served as a medic with the 10th Mountain Division Sustainment Brigade, volunteered with the Red Cross here at Guthrie as part of the Army’s Career Skills Program (CSP). The CSP provides an opportunity for Soldiers to capitalize on training opportunities during their transition to post-service careers.

Knowing she was going into a phlebotomy career, Whiting looked for a way to conduct her CSP at Guthrie, and the Red Cross volunteer program provide her that opportunity.

“She has taken on the role and helped everywhere, jumping in at every opportunity and learning as much as she can,” said Tina Allen, the chief of laboratory services. “Having a volunteer wanting to do that, it makes us feel a bit more notices and that people want to be here.”

If you’re looking for an opportunity to volunteer with the Red Cross to gain medical knowledge, meet educational requirements, maintain licenses and/or certifications, or just give back to your healthcare community, contact Dustin Chaves at (315) 418-8455 or [email protected].

Learn more about volunteering with the Red Cross here: www.RedCross.org/volunteer.

#ArmyMedicine is #ArmyStrong!