The Operational Public Health Division (OPH) delivers expert public health support and specialized training across the East region. OPH enhances force health protection through the following mission types:
Fast Response Teams (FRT)
Our two Fast Response Teams are prepared to deploy on short notice to address urgent health threats. Once on-site, they assess environmental hazards by testing air, water, workplaces, control disease-carrying pests, and investigate the source of outbreaks. Based on their findings, they provide immediate warnings and clear guidance to protect personnel and ensure the safety of the environment
Medical Detachment (Preventive Medicine) Training
Our experts deliver on-demand, on-site training to preventive medical detachments, enhancing their operational readiness and self-sufficiency. This specialized instruction focuses on advanced techniques for identifying and mitigating environmental health risks, alongside the surveillance and management of regional diseases. The primary goal is to empower these units to independently manage comprehensive health programs, ensuring the well-being of the force.
Humanitarian Assistance and Disaster Relief
In the aftermath of a natural or man-made disaster, Operational Public Health (OPH) supports survivors, local governments, and emergency response teams. OPH's primary role is to educate the public on critical health practices such as water purification, food safety, and hygiene. Additionally, the team evaluates public health needs to guide interventions and consults with partner agencies on best practices for managing emergency health programs, setting up temporary shelters, and preventing disease outbreaks.
Reach-Back Support to Deployed Troops
As a direct link to a vast network of stateside public health and intelligence resources, Operational Public Health (OPH) provides crucial support to deployed units. When a unit encounters a potential health risk, such as an unusual illness or environmental hazard, they can request information directly from OPH. In response, OPH delivers guidance that identifies the specific threat and recommends countermeasures, including protective equipment, specific treatments, and force health protection advice for commanders.
Occupational Environmental Health Site Assessment
Provide extensive sampling and analysis of potential health hazards posed to service members in an area of activity. These assessments include food and water safety, occupational and environmental exposures, as well as disease surveillance. The results of these assessments provide commanders with recommendations to minimize risk of disease, workplace injuries, and other health hazards.
Environmental Baseline/Closure Survey
Provide thorough field surveys prior to military use. These surveys ensure that the original environmental conditions of any potential operations location are documented and continually monitored throughout operational usage to satisfy environmental regulations before, during, and after military activities in the area.