Advancements such as the introduction of mobile surgical teams ensured that injured soldiers received medical care within the critical golden hour after being wounded. Additionally, newly developed tourniquets became essential equipment, significantly increasing survival rates on the battlefield. According to Art Kellermann, former dean of the Uniformed Services University—the military’s medical school—these measures led to the highest survival rates for battlefield injuries ever recorded in warfare history. However, in an effort to reduce healthcare expenses, the Pentagon shifted patient care from military treatment facilities to civilian hospitals. This transition had a detrimental effect on the medical corps: military hospitals experienced a decline in patient numbers necessary for maintaining doctors’ clinical skills. Consequently, combined with the impact of the pandemic, many healthcare professionals exited military service. Despite these challenges, budget cuts continued unabated…
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The advancements in battlefield medical care have been significant… …However, there is a risk that these improvements might be undone.
