GOODFELLOW AIR FORCE BASE, Texas -- As the sun crested the West Texas horizon Thursday morning, members of the 17th Medical Group formed in front of the Ross Clinic to begin a new chapter of medical services delivery at Goodfellow AFB.
Since the first medics assigned to the 62nd Squadron marched through the gate of Goodfellow AFB in 1941, Goodfellow’s medical team has adapted to the ever-changing demands of the Military Health System. In response to Special Order G-19-31, the 17th Medical Operations Squadron was re-designated as the 17th Operational Medical Readiness Squadron while the 17th Medical Support Squadron was deactivated and the 17th Healthcare Operations Squadron was activated. The 17th Medical Group joins 43 U.S. Air Force medical treatment facilities in this transformational event.
The goal of this directed restructure is to focus medical efforts on the operational readiness of the active duty members while preparing a ready force.
The 17th OMRS is tasked to produce a ready medical force that is 95% medically deployable and 90% mission capable.
Just as in 1956 when the 17th Tactical Infirmary operated a separate Dependent Clinic, the 17th HCOS is dedicated to caring for active duty families and retirees. Active duty members can expect operationally driven changes to their medical care and as for the active duty families and retirees this reorganization should be seamless.
The next transformational event for the 17th MDG takes place on 1 October 2019 when the Defense Health Agency assumes operational control of all CONUS MTFs.