ANA Taking Medical Lead in Helmand

[Aria2013]

Afghan forces are demonstrating much progress in security related operations including providing medical support for injured soldiers. In Helmand province earlier this year coalition forces transitioned to a supportive role handing over responsibility for security to Afghan National Security Forces. This also means providing medical treatment to injured soldiers will now be the responsibility of the Afghan National Army’s medics and surgeons. With the training ANA medics and surgeons have been receiving they are well prepared for the challenges in the battlefield. Since 2010 unit medics receive two months training in Kabul at the Armed Forces Academy of Medical Sciences. The two month course teaches medics primary life saving steps, such as stop the bleeding, check for breathing, and treat for shock. These trainings are very important since survival of injured soldiers begins on the battlefield and with the type of treatment they receive from the medics. ANA surgeons are the next level in providing care to injured soldiers. At present ANA surgeons can administer care ranging from cleaning shrapnel to amputations. Most of the Army surgeons have previously studied at Kabul Medical University and have years of experience in treating patients with battlefield injuries. In addition, air evacuations are also crucial and after coalition forces withdraw, Afghan National Air Force will play a key role in the future operations of the Army’s medical community.

How do you see the Afghan National Army Corps’ medical future?

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