Patient Advocate
Our Patient Advocate serves as a liaison between patients and their families, and the Medical Treatment Facilities’ Command and Staff members by providing an effective two-way channel of communication. As your advocate, I will assist you or members of your family in seeking; solutions to problems; misunderstandings; voice concerns; get timely and relevant information; and/or offer compliments and suggestions. Many of your concerns are best resolved in the area where you are receiving services or treatment. I recommend that you ask to speak to the Non-commissioned Officer In Charge (NCOIC), Officer in Charge (OIC) or Head Nurse initially, prior to coming to Patient Advocate in order to expedite a solution to your concern. If you do not get resolution or we are not able to meet your needs, I am available to provide further assistance.
Ombudsman (MEDCOM)
The Ombudsman functions as an independent, neutral, and impartial mediator for the Warriors in Transition and their families. The Ombudsmen were selected for their demonstrated ability and passion to help Soldiers. They are not assigned to the Medical Treatment Facility (MTF) or the Warrior Transition Battalion (WTB) but serve as a liaison between MEDCOM, the Soldier/family member, and the MTF and WTB commands. The Ombudsmen have a collaborative relationship with the MTF Patient Advocacy Office and work closely with the MEDCOM Medical Assistance Group (MMAG) to assist with the resolution of issues that come through the Wounded Soldier and Family Hotline (WSFH)
Wounded Soldier and Family Hotline
Phone: 1-800-984-8523
http://armymedicine.mil/Pages/wounded-soldier-and-family-hotline.aspx
The hotline has not been established to circumvent the Chain of Command/NCO Support Channel but to give Soldiers and family members an additional means to resolve medically-related concerns. Any type of retribution directed towards those who use the hotline or elicit help from the Ombudsman team will not be tolerated.