WarDocs - The Military Medicine Podcast Doug Soderdahl, Wayne Causey, Kevin Kniery

    Join us on War Docs as we sit down with Navy CAPT Matthew Tadlock, a trauma surgeon with a remarkable journey through Navy medicine. Listen in as CAPT Tadlock recounts his entry into Navy medicine via the Health Professions Scholarship Program, his time as a flight surgeon aboard the USS Carl Vinson during Operation Enduring Freedom, and his amusing tales from the surgical frontlines. With a career shaped by the mentorship of senior enlisted corpsmen and punctuated by memorable patient encounters, CAPT Tadlock shares his commitment to military medicine and its critical role in combat care.
   Our conversation also navigates the treacherous waters of maritime surgery, revealing the unique challenges of operating in this environment. CAPT Tadlock, the mind behind the "Expeditionary Surgery at Sea" textbook, discusses the evolution from his surgical residency to becoming a ship surgeon and how this experience led to the creation of a vital resource for medical professionals. He illuminates the contrasts between large warships with extensive facilities and smaller vessels with limited medical supplies, emphasizing the indispensable role of independent duty corpsmen and the need for tailored medical resources.
   Wrap up your listening experience as we discuss the intricate decision-making and resource management crucial to maritime surgery. CAPT Tadlock walks us through the complexities surgeons and independent duty corpsmen face on naval ships, from conducting surgeries with limited resources to handling mass casualty situations. Hear firsthand about the innovative practices that ensure surgical readiness and the new book that provides essential guidance to Navy residents and surgeons. With proceeds going towards charitable causes within the military community, CAPT Tadlock's dedication to advancing military medicine shines through every story and piece of advice shared.
 
Chapters:
(00:04) Military Medicine and Combat Care
(13:27) Maritime Surgery Textbook Project
(18:10) Challenges of Maritime Medical Practice
(23:44) Challenges of Surgery at Sea
(27:15) Expeditionary Surgery in Maritime Environments
(33:09) Surgical Challenges in Deployed Maritime Medicine
 
Chapter Summaries:
(00:04) Military Medicine and Combat Care
Navy CAPT Matthew Tadlock's career journey, mentorship from senior enlisted corpsmen, and current role as chair of the Joint Trauma System.
 
(13:27) Maritime Surgery Textbook Project
Maritime surgery presents unique challenges due to limited resources and the role of independent duty corpsmen.
 
(18:10) Challenges of Maritime Medical Practice
Surgeons at sea face challenges with limited resources, emphasizing the importance of X-ray reading and strategic medical supply distribution.
 
(23:44) Challenges of Surgery at Sea
Nature's surgical challenges and quality improvements in maritime environments, including ectopic pregnancy management, hand injuries, and medical evacuation.
 
(27:15) Expeditionary Surgery in Maritime Environments
Maritime surgery involves complex decision-making, the urgency of patient transfers, resource management, teamwork, and a new resource for Navy residents and surgeons.
 
(33:09) Surgical Challenges in Deployed Maritime Medicine
Surgeons aboard naval ships must be adaptable, skilled in various surgeries, and prepared for emergencies and limited resources.
 
Take Home Messages:
The high seas present unique challenges for medical professionals, requiring adaptability and resourcefulness due to the limited availability of modern diagnostic tools and varying medical facilities on naval vessels.
Independent duty corpsmen play a critical role in Navy medicine, especially on smaller ships, where they must rely on specific maritime medical resources and their extensive training to provide care in resource-constrained environments.
A deep understanding of trauma care logistics and resource management is essential aboard naval ships, where every medical decision can signif

   Join us on War Docs as we sit down with the remarkable Dr. Hassan Tetteh, a retired Navy Captain and esteemed cardiothoracic surgeon, whose roots as a Brooklyn-born son of West African immigrants shaped his extraordinary path in military medicine. Listen in as Dr. Tetteh recounts his initial draw to the military, influenced by Junior ROTC, and how an unexpected commitment to a Navy career after medical school led to fulfilling his ambition to provide care for Marines. His stories take us aboard the USS Carl Vinson and into the heart of Afghanistan, where his service with the Second Marine Expeditionary Force brought both intense challenges and unparalleled triumphs.
    Dr. Hassan's journey doesn't end at the operating table; his career expands into realms such as clinical informatics and the integration of artificial intelligence into healthcare. Hear how his experiences with data and technology have revolutionized the way we approach patient outcomes, offering a glimpse into the future of military and federal medicine. But amidst this technological advancement, Dr. Tetteh emphasizes the timeless art of human care—sharing personal stories highlighting the irreplaceable impact of empathy and connection in healing.
     As we wrap up our conversation with Dr. Hassan Tetteh, we delve into the burgeoning field of Human Care Technologies and its potential to support military service members and their families. Dr. Tetteh shares how his time at the Pentagon and the Joint Artificial Intelligence Center inspired his company's mission and discusses projects like Project SALUS, which played a crucial role during the pandemic. Don't miss his insight on the use of AI to streamline veterans' transition to civilian life and how these innovations are changing the landscape of healthcare and providing structured support for those who've served our nation.
 
Chapters:
(00:04) Military Medicine Career Journey & Specializations
(11:35) Defining Moments in Afghanistan Deployment
(15:35) Military Medicine and Transplant Expertise
(19:58) Medical Training Prepared Surgeon for Crisis
(28:21) Informatics and AI in Healthcare
(41:44) The Art of Human Care
(51:05) Human Care Technologies and Military Benefits
 
Chapter Summaries:
(00:04) Military Medicine Career Journey & Specializations
Brooklyn-born Dr. Hassan Tetteh's journey from military medicine to cardiac surgery, deployments, and insights on AI in healthcare.
(11:35) Defining Moments in Afghanistan Deployment:
A trauma surgeon shares a vivid memory of their intense experiences in Afghanistan, highlighting the critical role of military medical personnel on the front lines.
(15:35) Military Medicine and Transplant Expertise
Providing medical care to young Marines, training in thoracic transplantation, and the influence of the STAR team on a surgeon's career.
(19:58) Medical Training Prepared Surgeon for Crisis
Professional growth, cardiac care, transplantation, leadership, war zone surgery, and mentorship in high-pressure environments.
(28:21) Informatics and AI in Healthcare
Informatics and AI are transforming military medicine, improving outcomes through data and technology, with potential for future breakthroughs.
(41:44) The Art of Human Care
Transformation in doctor-patient relationship, embracing responsibility and partnership, and impact beyond technology in healthcare.
(51:05) Human Care Technologies and Military Benefits
Transitioning from military to civilian life, integrating AI into healthcare, supporting veterans, Project SALUS, large language models, and podcast with LTG Jack Shanahan.
 
Take Home Messages:
Life experiences, including those in the military, can significantly shape a physician's approach to healthcare, blending traditional medicine with advanced technology such as artificial intelligence to improve patient outcomes.
Frontline medical professionals in war zones face unique challenges that test their skills and psychological resilience, emphasiz

   Join us as we welcome Dr. Donnelly Wilkes, a family physician and former Navy doctor whose story takes us from medical school halls to Fallujah's intense battlegrounds. Listen in as Dr. Wilkes recounts how the tragic events of 9/11 pivoted his career from a peaceful Navy service to the adrenaline-charged life of combat medicine alongside the Marines. His vivid narrative includes the grueling preparation for battlefield medicine, his on-the-ground decisions, and the powerful motivations behind his memoir, "Code Red Fallujah." Dr. Wilkes's personal journey offers a raw glimpse into the heart of military medical service and the indelible lessons that transcend the chaos of war.
   In this heartfelt episode, we explore the psychological and emotional landscapes shaped by military deployment. Hear about the profound experiences that forever altered Dr. Wilkes's medical practice and personal life, from treating the first Marine killed in action near Fallujah to the complex readjustment to civilian life. Dr. Wilkes shares how moments of stillness and empathetic connections with patients have enriched his role as a physician. He also imparts wisdom for medical professionals gearing up for future service, underlining the importance of mentorship and strategic foresight in combat medicine. Tune in for a conversation that bridges the front lines of military service with the compassionate care of family medicine.
 
Chapters:
(00:04) Combat Medicine in Fallujah
(08:31) Fallujah Field Medical Station Experiences
(24:22) Military Deployment Impact on Medical Practice
 
Chapter Summaries:
(00:04) Combat Medicine in Fallujah
Dr. Donnelly Wilkes shares his journey from medical school to deployment in Fallujah, exploring the impact of 9/11 and military medicine.
 
(08:31) Fallujah Field Medical Station Experiences
Nature's intense realities at a field medical aid station near Fallujah, including a powerful moment of prayer and treating a Marine with a severe head wound.
 
(24:22) Military Deployment Impact on Medical Practice
Military deployment's impact on medical practice and personal life, including stillness, listening skills, and readjustment to civilian life.
 
Take Home Messages:
**The Unpredictable Path of Military Medicine**: The tragic events of 9/11 can pivot the career trajectory of medical professionals in unexpected ways. This episode highlights how one doctor's path shifted from the prospect of peaceful Navy service to the intense realities of combat medicine on the battlefields of Fallujah.
**Rigorous Preparation for Battlefield Medicine**: The transition from medical school to serving as a physician in a combat zone requires extensive and specialized training. From officer training and combat casualty care courses to field exercises and trauma rotations, military doctors must be equipped with a unique set of skills to make life-saving decisions under the pressure of war.
**The Emotional Toll of Combat on Medical Personnel**: Experiencing the front lines of battle has a profound psychological and emotional impact on medical personnel. Dealing with casualties and the loss of life in a warzone requires not only medical expertise but also immense mental resilience and the ability to cope with high-stress situations.
**Post-Deployment Challenges and Growth**: Returning to civilian life after serving in a combat zone presents its own set of challenges, including readjusting to a different pace of life and dealing with the after-effects of constant vigilance and exposure to trauma. However, these experiences can also result in personal growth, leading to improved empathy and patient care practices.
**Mentorship and Foresight in Military Medicine**: For medical professionals considering or preparing for military service, seeking mentorship and learning from those with firsthand combat experience is invaluable. Strategic foresight, such as choosing between stationary or mobile medical units, is also critical for effectivel

  Join us as we speak with Dr. Niten Singh, a respected vascular surgeon and director at the University of Washington, who shares his remarkable journey from the child of immigrants to a distinguished figure in military medicine. Listen in as Dr. Singh reflects on the influence of his late father's values and the pragmatic benefits of attending the Uniformed Services University. His anecdotes from serving as an aviation brigade surgeon in Korea provide a compelling narrative of the challenges he faced balancing medical duties with military hierarchy.
    In our conversation, Dr. Singh recounts the evolution of vascular surgery from open to endovascular techniques, drawing on his own experiences during his fellowship and while deployed in Baghdad. He gives us a candid look at the emotional weight carried by military surgeons, discussing the lasting impressions of trauma cases from his deployment. Dr. Singh's insights offer invaluable advice for those embarking on a military medical career and highlight the importance of specialized training in building confidence and skill in the operating room.
   The episode rounds out with Dr. Singh detailing his transition from military to civilian practice and the culture of camaraderie that extends from the battlefield to the operating room. Hear about his leadership role at Harborview and his involvement in fostering the growth of the Pacific Northwest Endovascular Conference, which has become a premier event for the vascular surgery community. Dr. Singh's personal stories of memorable surgical cases and the lessons learned throughout his career underscore the importance of teamwork, mentorship, and maintaining balance in both personal and professional life. Tune in for an enriching discussion filled with heart, humor, and a wealth of knowledge from a leader in military and vascular surgery.
 
Chapters:
(00:04) Military Medicine Career and Insights
(13:10) Combat Hospital Vascular Surgery Experience
(18:19) Military Surgery and Academic Success
(26:21) Transition and Growth in Vascular Surgery
(36:28) Lessons From Military and Medical Leadership
(40:29) Memorable Surgical Cases in Military
 
Chapter Summaries:
(00:04) Military Medicine Career and Insights
Dr. Niten Singh shares his journey from child of immigrants to renowned vascular surgeon, reflecting on military service and transitioning to civilian practice.
 
(13:10) Combat Hospital Vascular Surgery Experience
Transition from open to endovascular techniques, impact of specialized training, and emotional aspects of military medicine.
 
(18:19) Military Surgery and Academic Success
Marine Corps camaraderie, advancements in military medical tools, and the importance of academic productivity and mentorship in vascular surgery.
 
(26:21) Transition and Growth in Vascular Surgery
Transitioning from military to civilian life, humorous middle name mix-up, and growth of PNEC as a premier vascular surgery conference.
 
(36:28) Lessons From Military and Medical Leadership
Military service, residency, and civilian life are discussed, along with building a successful residency program and the importance of teamwork and mentorship.
 
(40:29) Memorable Surgical Cases in Military
Surgical cases, military career, and life lessons learned are discussed in this chapter.
 
Take Home Messages:
Overcoming Challenges of Immigrant Heritage: The episode highlights the importance of hard work and dedication, as instilled by immigrant family values, in achieving success in demanding fields such as military and vascular surgery.
Military Service Shapes Medical Proficiency: The episode emphasizes the unique learning opportunities provided by military service, which can significantly enhance a surgeon's confidence and technical skills, particularly through specialized training and frontline experiences.
Advancements in Surgical Techniques: The podcast delves into the evolution of vascular surgery, detailing the transition from open surgeries to

   Join us as we welcome Army 2LT Ryan Leone, a dedicated Columbia medical student and WarDocs Ambassador. Ryan shares a fascinating look into his path to military medicine, a journey that began outside the traditional military family sphere. His experiences, from the Boy Scouts to the American Legion, and his discovery of the Health Professions Scholarship Program (HPSP), illustrate a unique route that has fueled his passion for the intersection of service and healthcare. Listen in as Ryan recounts his pre-med experiences at the US Army Institute for Surgical Research and the Defense Health Agency, and the profound impact of mentorship on his career trajectory.
   In our engaging discussion, we explore the myriad of opportunities for those interested in federal and military healthcare. We shed light on how to bolster medical school applications and gain valuable experience through various institutes and programs. Ryan offers up invaluable advice for leveraging positions and resources, like the Geneva Foundation and the Henry M. Jackson Foundation, to pave the way for a successful career in military medicine. Hear about the importance of reaching out and staying current on military healthcare and disaster medicine topics, as well as ways to actively seek out experiences that align with personal interests in the field.
   Lastly, we delve into the different avenues for involvement in military medicine, whether you're a student or a seasoned professional. From national organizations to annual conferences, there are countless ways to deepen your knowledge and connections. We emphasize the importance of mentorship, the value of staying open to new opportunities, and the significance of paying it forward. Ryan also shares his aspirations in emergency medicine and supporting Special Operations Forces, reminding us of the broad spectrum of roles that intersect with medicine, national security, and management. Tune in for an inspiring conversation that will leave you optimistic about the future of military medicine and the people dedicated to advancing it.
 
Chapters:
(00:04) Military Medicine Opportunities and Experiences
(10:07) Exploring Government Health Opportunities
(16:38) Connecting to Military Medicine Opportunities
(25:13) Opportunities for Involvement in Military Medicine
(35:20) Military Medicine Career Path Planning
 
Chapter Summaries:
(00:04) Military Medicine Opportunities and Experiences
Army 2LT Ryan Leone shares his journey into military medicine, from non-military background to HPSP and mentorship from military healthcare professionals.
 
(10:07) Exploring Government Health Opportunities
Individual's journey from Presidential Management Fellowship to the DHA, a State Department rotation, and acceptance to Columbia University for medical school.
 
(16:38) Connecting to Military Medicine Opportunities
Enhance medical school applications by gaining experience in military and federal healthcare through research institutes, government agencies, and programs like Geneva and Henry M. Jackson Foundation.
 
(25:13) Opportunities for Involvement in Military Medicine
Join national organizations, attend conferences, seek mentorship, and showcase diverse opportunities in military medicine.
 
(35:20) Military Medicine Career Path Planning
Ryan's journey to specialize in emergency medicine and join the operational medicine community, emphasizing mentorship and optimism for the future of military medicine.
 
Take Home Messages:
Exploring Federal Healthcare Opportunities: The importance of gaining diverse experiences in federal healthcare before attending medical school is stressed. Internships and fellowships at institutions like the US Army Institute for Surgical Research and the Defense Health Agency provide a wide-ranging view of healthcare, policy, and military readiness.
Navigating Military Medicine Pathways: Unconventional routes often lead to a career in military healthcare. Diverse experiences through progr

    Join us as we speak with retired Colonel Dr. Peter Tan, an esteemed oral maxillofacial surgeon and Civilian Aide to the Secretary of the Army, to explore his remarkable journey through military medicine. Dr. Tan offers a personal narrative that captures the essence of his family's military legacy and how it shaped his career path, from his early education to his advanced medical training. His experiences reflect a lifetime of service, both on active duty and the Reserves, and he imparts the wisdom he's gained from his strategic level commands. Listen in as he shares his unique perspective on advising the Secretary of the Army and the importance of a ready medical force.
 
   Our conversation with Dr. Tan also delves into the intricacies of juggling the dual roles of military officer and medical professional. We uncover the pivotal role of familial and peer support, the transformative impact of 9/11, and the significance of leadership and mentorship in shaping one's career. Dr. Tan's stories from the front lines of military health care units are not only inspiring but also offer valuable lessons in decision-making and the power of continuous learning. Tune in for an insider's look at the application of clinical skills in deployment settings and the ongoing journey of professional development.
 
    Dr. Tan's account of how cautious decision-making in healthcare can lead to lifesaving outcomes serves as a testament to responsible leadership. The role of a Civilian Aide to the Secretary of the Army is demystified as Dr. Tan explains the responsibilities and impact of this position. Be inspired by the profound effect that mentorship can have within the military community, and discover how military medicine offers a unique avenue for medical professionals to serve their country while honing their leadership skills. Don't forget to show your support for War Docs by joining Team War Docs on our website and engaging with our content across podcast platforms and YouTube.
 
Chapters:
(00:04) Military Medicine Career Journey
(09:40) Balancing Military and Medical Career Leadership
(19:08) Service and Leadership in Military Medicine
 
Chapter Summaries:
(00:04) Military Medicine Career Journey
    Retired Colonel Dr. Peter Tan shares his family's military background, educational path, and leadership philosophy in Army medicine.
 
(09:40) Balancing Military and Medical Career Leadership
    The delicate balance of a medical and military career, the impact of 9/11, leadership, clinical skills, and continuous learning.
 
(19:08) Service and Leadership in Military Medicine
    Responsible leadership in healthcare, mentorship in the military, and the role of a CASA in supporting the Army and its families.
Take Home Messages:
A legacy of military service can shape one's career choices and instill a deep sense of duty and pride.
Pursuing a career in military medicine requires a unique blend of clinical expertise and leadership skills, often learned through a combination of education and hands-on experience.
Strong support systems, including family and professional networks, are crucial for balancing the demands of a dual career in the medical field and the military.
The events of 9/11 had a profound impact on personal and professional perspectives, reinforcing the importance of strong leadership in times of crisis.
Leadership in military medicine is not just about rank but involves making decisions that have significant consequences for the well-being of others.
Mentorship plays a critical role in shaping the next generation of leaders in military medicine, with a ripple effect on the entire healthcare team.
The Civilian Aide to the Secretary of the Army (CASA) position is a vital link between the military and the community, playing a key role in recruitment, retention, and support for service members and their families.
The Soldier for Life program exemplifies the enduring commitment of military medical professiona