The OSG interns started the morning by receiving a briefing from ENS Draude regarding the overall activities for the day. Time was allotted to clarify, explore and work on our selected projects. Many aspects of the projects will continue to evolve during the remainder of the week. Dr. Freeman and Dr. Clark spent time interviewing MRC volunteers as it relates to evacuation process.

The OSG interns were privileged to sit in on the Surgeon General's Policy Advisory Council Meeting, conducted by the Acting Surgeon General RADM  Lushniak.  We were given an opportunity to briefly discuss why we were interested in serving as OSG interns. The Acting Surgeon General emphasized that we will continue with the previous health initiatives (such as the walking initiative) as well as focusing on skin cancer prevention in the future.  The OSG interns participate in the walking initiative every day…in an effort to walk of the calories from the cheesecake.

It really is a small world! After the SG PAC Meeting CAPT Clark (Chief Veterinarian) took the time the inform Dr. Freeman that she, too, was from Alabama and that she had attended Auburn University in Veterinarian Medicine (War Eagle).  

Much of today was spent in meetings with various individuals in leadership. The afternoon meeting was very informative and enlighten as it relates to minority health. Commander Branch -Office of Minority Health (OMH) addressed issues that impact the overall health and well-being of minorities as well as discussed specify strategies for reducing the health disparities among this population. Examples of some minority groups includes: Native Americans, Asians, and Pacific Islanders. The OSG intern advisors expressed an interest in working with the OMH by exploring service projects for the students in relation to the Affordable Health Care Act. Commander Branch provided us direction as well as provided contact name/numbers of the regional consultant.  The OSG students learned that the OMH library has invaluable resources that can be of assistance in the future. Lastly, everyone has been very receptive of the OSG interns and everyone has been eager to share “their stories” regarding their life’s journey. This has been an AWESOME experience!!!

Project Work with ENS Draude

Acting Surgeon General RADM Lushniak-standing

RADM Giberson-seated in white

CMDR Branch (khaki)

CAPT Clark

Acting Surgeon General RADM Lushniak