UCC; caring for the body, soul

  • Published
  • By Senior Airman Caitlin Guinazu
  • 366th Fighter Wing Public Affairs
MOUNTAIN HOME AIR FORCE BASE, Idaho --  Hospital doors are thrown open as a screaming, crying woman staggers inside, pleading for help. Medical personnel rush to assist the woman as she collapses on the sterile white floor.

Scenes like this are a common occurrence on television, but when this happens for real, medical personnel at Mountain Home Air Force Base are trained and experienced in how to handle similar situations with calm and precision.

The Urgent Care Center is part of the 366th Medical Group and is open 24/7 to any active duty members, Department of Defense employees, retirees and their family members who need aid. In addition, they also provide care for the Singaporean military and the Paiute Indian reservation.

"During a medical emergency, every second counts," said Lt. Col. Gregory Baldwin, 366th MDG group practice manager. "It's important for those who live on or near base to have the option to receive care."

Staffed with experienced physicians and nurses, the UCC is prepared to treat a wide variety of medical issues. They routinely practice treating cardiac arrests and participate in exercises and many have gone to specialty training courses such as trauma, pre-deployment training, and others have deployed and gained real world experience.

Like the local heroes they are, the members of the MHAFB's UCC stand ready to assist, just without the cape.

"We are able to treat just about anything and if we can't, we will transport our patients either by ambulance, helicopter or have an outside transport take you to a facility that can," said Maj. Mary Gaines, UCC flight commander. "We can also do restricted exams and reports for active duty and dependent sexual assault victims."

Remaining open even when the MDG closes for holidays, training and other official functions, they see and treat anyone who feels the need to be seen - at any time for any reason.

"We are the face of the Medical Group," said Baldwin. "We are the command and control center during emergencies and because we are open 24 hours; we are able to respond quickly and sound the alert if needed."

Providing outstanding medical care around the clock, each member of the team is dedicated to providing the best care possible.

"In our Urgent Care Center, we have a team that truly cares about the lives of each and every patient that comes in," said Gaines. "By providing a clean facility staffed with friendly personnel, we are able to provide high-quality and safe healthcare. We provide the best care because we are the best."

For non-emergency services, schedule an appointment with your Primary Care Manager by calling 208-828-7900, or accessing the MiCare electronic messaging system or the Tricare Nurse Advice Line at 1-800-TRICARE.