9th MDG welcomes local healthcare providers

  • Published
  • By Airman 1st Class Ramon A. Adelan
  • 9th Reconnaissance Wing Public Affairs
BEALE AIR FORCE BASE, Calif. --  The staff at the 9th Medical Group welcomed more than 50 local healthcare providers to the Beale Clinic here as part of an open house to strengthen medical relationships Nov. 20, 2014.

These healthcare providers assist the clinic with giving care to 9th MDG patients who are referred to an outside provider.

According to recent 9th MDG referral reports, the Beale Clinic processes approximately 1,000 referrals each month for patients to receive care from specialists.

"We thrive on providing our patients with the best care possible," said Maj. Ian Gregory, 9th MDG chief of medical staff. "And with the assistance of the local providers, we are able to ensure patients receive that type of care."

The 9th MDG is a Primary Care Medical Group Practice, which supports nearly 10,000 active duty military members, their families, and military retirees and their families. The clinic offers primary care, comprehensive dental, physiological training and support to strategic reconnaissance aircrews deployed in support of Department of Defense requirements, and associated ancillary services.

"We are extremely appreciative of the close partnerships we have with our local healthcare providers," said Col. Jody Ocker, 9th MDG commander. "In addition to Team Beale, these providers serve more than 15,000 military families that live and work in the surrounding area."

The open house gave the healthcare providers an opportunity to tour the Beale Medical Clinic and meet with 9th MDG Airmen. The 9th Physiological Support Squadron also demonstrated a full-pressure suit, which the U-2 Dragon Lady pilots wear.

"These types of events ensure we continue to grow vital relationships with local providers," said Carolyn Peterson, 9th MDG case manager. "We continue to strive forward with our goal for our patients to experience the best care they have ever received at a military treatment facility."