Pathfinders lead the charge in DOD’s healthcare evolution

  • Published
  • By Tech. Sgt. Aaron Thomasson
  • 501st Combat Support Wing Public Affairs

The 501st Combat Support Wing has successfully transitioned to the Military Health System’s new electronic health record system, MHS GENESIS.

The transition marks a significant milestone in military healthcare, replacing the Composite Health Care System that was used since the early 1990s. The 422d and 423d Medical Squadrons have been actively engaged for months in preparation for the shift.

"I am so proud of my team," said Master Sgt. Julie Rose, 422d MDS MHS GENESIS site lead. "It has been a significant and impressive accomplishment, providing over 1,200 due outs, completing over 800 training sessions, and 1,500 hours of planning and preparation."

The new system will support millions of MHS beneficiaries and sync hundreds of medical centers, hospitals and ambulatory care centers DoD-wide.

The implementation of MHS GENESIS is not just a technological upgrade; it's a transformation in patient care. The new system will empower patients with 24/7 access to their health records through the MHS GENESIS Patient Portal, enhancing transparency and enabling more informed healthcare decisions.

"The portal is a game-changer in patient engagement, providing secure and immediate access to lab results, medication history and other critical health data," said Lt. Col. Debra Sims, 422d MDS commander.

Despite the challenges of conducting training while continuing to excel at patient care, the team successfully overcame all obstacles.

"Our team really came together to ensure we met each of our suspense’s, presented the due-outs and attended the TEAMS call-ins," added Rose.

Understanding the impact of the transition, the 501st CSW has been proactive in communicating with patients and their families. The wing’s two medical clinics have reached out to patients and worked hard to answer questions and ease concerns.

“We held four town halls to provide information to our beneficiaries and answer their questions,” said Lt. Col. Yvonne Storey, 423d MDS commander.

The implementation of MHS GENESIS is expected to positively impact DoD healthcare delivery, efficiency and patient outcomes.

“Having records in one place enhances health, improves safety and enables beneficiaries to have better access to their information making it easier for them to be fully engaged in their healthcare,” said Storey.

"Our Mission Statement is unchanged: Forge Agile Warrior Medics Delivering Safe, Reliable Care in Support of Global Force Priorities," said Sims, emphasizing the commitment to excellence.

For more information on MHS GENESIS, visit Military Health System.