Deployment Health Center (DHC)
About this Service:
Based on a DOD instruction on Deployment Health (6490.03), the Bureau of Medicine has allocated funding for contractual positions with the main mission of administering the (Post Deployment Health Re-Assessment) PDHRA . There are 3 screening forms specific to deployments: one before, one in-theater and one at the post-deployment 3-6 month mark. The PDHRA is a similar tool to the pre-deployment health assessment, the screening all active duty members must fill out a pre-deployment risk assessment. As the active duty member is redeploying, while in theatre, they must fill out a post deployment health assessment. The focus of the DHC is at the 3-6 month mark after deployment. Recent history has shown military medicine that many service members were returning to their military treatment facilities with deployment related issues not initially upon return, but more often, 3 to 12 months after they return from their deployment and readjust back into their routine.
Because most of the active duty deployments are individual augmentees (IAs), NHCNE has been identifying and tracking names and contact information of the deploying members. When our tracking database shows a person is within their window for the PDHRA, they will be contracted by the IMR Clinic (Individual Medical Readiness) to schedule their appointment. Active duty members can self-refer or call at the suggestion of their command.
The member can expect to complete the DD2900 screening on the computer and speak with the DH nurse regarding any concerns they or their family might have. The DH family nurse practitioner will review the form & assist the individual with concerns or questions and make appropriate medical and/or behavioral health referrals as necessary.
In addition to caring for the actual service member, the Deployment Health Center is also able to assist in providing resources to the member’s dependants who may need supportive care as well. The Deployment Health Center’s goal is to aid in the readjustment of the returning service member to home life, whether home is the barracks, with a family, or transitioning to other roles. We strive to provide you with a variety of services to help ensure you have the skills to perform your military duties, and lead a satisfactory lifestyle.
Available at Groton, CT, Newport, RI, Portsmouth, NH, and Saratoga Springs, NY