Brooke Army Medical Center: The Heart of Military Medicine from the Heart of Texas

One of the most important facilities in the American military medical system is Brooke Army Medical Center. As a level 1 trauma center and a key research facility the San Antonio institution plays many roles all with one goal in mind.

MD Magazine traveled to the facility to interview several doctors who work there as well as the Center for the Intrepid, and the US Army Institute of Surgical Research which are all located on the campus.

Michael Morris, MD, discussed the latest research being conducted into pulmonary issues which can affect active military personnel on deployment but also veterans returning home from overseas.

Much like the civilian population liver disease is a growing problem in the military ranks as well. Col. Stephen Harrison, MD, talked about what is being done to address these issues for thos serving now and in the future.

Brooke Army Medical Center also is home to the only level 1 trauma center in the department of defense and Col. Michael Hilliard, MD, spoke about what that can mean for care not only in Texas but around the world as well.

While not part of the medical center itself the US Army Institute of Surgical Research is working on making strides to help improve patient care in a variety of fields down the road. Josh Wenke, PhD, noted that because of the way they are funded it allows them to move faster than other research facilities.

At the Center for the Intrepid Lt. Col. Kathleen Yancosek, said it is an honor to be able to help service members who have had limbs amputated learn how to go back to relatively normal lives with the latest in prosthetic technology.

All the work done at the institution is done under the supervision of commanding officers including Col. Mark Swofford, MHA, PhD, who serves as Deputy Commander for Administration and looked at what sets Brooke apart from other parts of the military medicine structure.