Office of the Surgeon General

Rehabilitating the Wounded: Historical Perspective on Army Policy Office of the Surgeon General

This study looks at how the Army has handled long-term care for combat casualties. Policy and practice have changed over time due to 1) the availability and capability of other government hospitals to care for patients, 2) changing political climates, 3) expanding GME programs that need complex patients, 4) the developments of medical science, and 5) the economics of medical practice. The AMEDD has different levels of care and rehabilitation for different patient populations, including varying levels for combat casualties. As the AMEDD looks at its structure of personnel and facilities for the future, it should consider the experience of the past. Doing nothing for the wounded is not an option, doing everything for the wounded is not practical, so the question for contemplation and debate is how much should be done and by whom.