Articles

April 15, 2025

New ERASE Program Aims to Save Lives Through Early Cardiac Risk Detection

JOINT BASE SAN ANTONIO-LACKLAND, Texas — The ERASE program, led by Dr. M. Alaric Franzos, is a pilot initiative aimed at reducing sudden cardiac arrest in military personnel through early ECG screening at basic training and service academies. Reviving a previously discontinued practice, the program uses modern technology and data to identify hidden cardiac risks and improve medical readiness. With promising early results, ERASE could shape future Department of Defense screening policy.

March 21, 2025

Your health care news (Mar. 21 Update)

JOINT BASE SAN ANTONIO — Here's the latest news regarding your health care at the 59th Medical Wing. Please help us spread the word regarding these updates and service offerings! EXERCISE & REDUCED OPERATIONSThe 59th Medical Wing will have reduced operations on March 25 at Lackland Air Force Base (to include Wilford Hall Ambulatory Surgical Center) and March 27 at Randolph

March 20, 2025

The heartbeat of the clinic: 59th Medical Wing cardiology pumps out awards

JBSA-LACKLAND, Texas — Three members of the 59th Medical Wing’s cardiology clinic were recognized in January for their dedication and versatility, earning group-level awards for their contributions to patient care. Among them, Suzanne Packard, a U.S. Navy veteran and registered cardiac sonographer, also received a wing-level award for her leadership and instructional role in training airmen. Lt. Col. Charles McMichael, the clinic’s flight commander, praised the team’s cohesiveness, emphasizing their commitment to delivering high-quality care and supporting the military mission.

March 10, 2025

Air Force Empowers Airmen Through Continuous Improvement Green Belt Certification

JBSA-LACKLAND, Texas — The Air Force’s Continuous Improvement and Innovation (CI2) program equips Airmen with Lean Six Sigma tools to enhance efficiency and mission readiness. Through Green Belt certification, Airmen complete online training and lead process improvement projects to streamline operations. This initiative fosters a culture of innovation, ensuring the Air Force maximizes resources and maintains operational excellence.

Oct. 17, 2023

Military health and readiness improved through collaboration with small business

Joint Base San Antonio- Lackland, Texas — The article highlights the significant musculoskeletal injuries faced by military personnel, particularly ankle injuries. These injuries lead to training disruptions, costly medical attrition, and affect military readiness. To address this, the Air Force initiated the Versatile Injury Prevention and Embedded Reconditioning program (VIPER) and partnered with TayCo Brace to develop the XAB (eXternal Ankle Brace). This innovative brace offers better range of motion and comfort, reduces recovery time, and can be worn over combat boots or athletic shoes. It is expected to significantly improve return-to-duty rates, reduce disruptions, and enhance overall outcomes for service members with ankle injuries. The XAB is commercially available for military procurement, representing a promising solution for military musculoskeletal injuries.