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

  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

   Step into the world of military and civilian medical excellence as we share the stage with Dr. Peggy Knudsen, a leading trauma surgeon whose work bridges these two critical spheres. Her journey from a Minnesota mining town to the front lines of trauma surgery reveals the profound impact of military-civilian partnerships in healthcare. Through stories of her time in Iraq and Germany, Dr. Knudsen unravels the complexities of trauma care and the incredible strides made possible by the collaboration between military-civilian expertise and innovation.
   Imagine stepping off a plane and straight into an active war zone as a civilian surgeon. Our latest episode brings that reality to light, showcasing civilian surgeons who volunteered to serve in military hospitals during the Iraq and Afghanistan conflicts. Their integration into military teams and the skills honed in the heat of battle are not only harrowing tales of service but also invaluable learning experiences that have reshaped their professional and personal lives. Join us as we examine the rigorous process that prepared these civilians for the battlefield, and the indelible mark it left on their approach to surgery back home. These civilian heroes didn't just bring their expertise to the theater of war; they returned with invaluable insights that have since transformed the landscape of civilian trauma care.
    We address the evolving landscape of trauma medicine, where military innovations have found their place in our local hospitals. Dr. Knudsen sheds light on the importance of programs like Stop the Bleed and the pioneering strategies of damage control resuscitation, illustrating the profound influence of military protocols on saving lives in civilian emergencies. As we consider the future readiness of military medical professionals, she eloquently speaks to the importance of ongoing collaboration to maintain a high standard of combat casualty care, ensuring that, even in peacetime, our surgeons are prepared for the realities of war. Her experiences offer a unique lens on the Excelsior Surgical Society's role in nurturing military surgeons' professional development, painting a vivid picture of how these collaborations are pivotal in advancing modern trauma systems.
   As we face concerns over a potential decline in deployment experience among military medical personnel, Dr. Knudsen sheds light on collaborative efforts to ensure that the next generation of military surgeons retains the expertise necessary for future combat casualty care. It's an enlightening discussion that solidifies the critical nature of these ongoing partnerships in trauma care.
 
Chapters:
(00:04) Military-Civilian Partnerships in Trauma Care
(11:56) Civilian Surgeons in War Zones
(24:22) Improving Trauma Care Through Military-Civilian Partnerships
(31:42) Military-Civilian Trauma Care Partnerships
 
Chapter Summaries:
(00:04) Military-Civilian Partnerships in Trauma Care
Dr. Peggy Knudsen's journey in trauma surgery, her role in pediatric surgery, and the importance of military-civilian partnerships in advancing trauma care.
 
(11:56) Civilian Surgeons in War Zones
Civilian surgeons volunteered in military hospitals during Iraq and Afghanistan conflicts, learning from and working with military personnel.
 
(24:22) Improving Trauma Care Through Military-Civilian Partnerships
Military trauma care advancements, tourniquet use, damage control resuscitation, burn care improvements, and preserving surgical skills through partnerships.
 
(31:42) Military-Civilian Trauma Care Partnerships
Firsthand trauma experience, military-civilian partnerships, and readiness of trauma community to respond to large-scale operations.
 
Take Home Messages:
Civilian and military trauma care partnerships are critical for advancing modern trauma systems and ensuring readiness for future conflicts.
Civilian surgeons gain transformative experiences and valuable insights from volunteering in war zones, whic

Join us on WarDocs as we chat with the legend himself, Dr. Norman Rich, who pioneered the field of military vascular surgery. We journey through his life and career, from his humble beginnings in a small Arizona copper mining town to becoming an international authority in his field. Listen as Dr. Rich discusses his groundbreaking work in Vietnam, his creation of the Vietnam Vascular Registry, and the completion of his landmark textbook, Vascular Trauma.Dr. Rich shares insights on his journey of pioneering military vascular surgery and his unique experiences operating on President Eisenhower in this riveting discussion. Hear his fascinating story about meeting with Dr. DeBakey. Discover his career's challenges and triumphs and valuable contributions to the military medicine field. Learn about the unique military pathologies that Dr. Rich brought to light through his extensive research and the role of international collaboration in spreading the word about military vascular surgery. You will also gain an understanding of the importance of having consultants to help with the newly formed USUHS medical school surgical program and the value of the Excelsior Surgical Society in advancing military medicine. Don't miss out on this chance to hear from a true visionary in military surgery.
--------- EPISODE CHAPTERS WITH SHORT KEY POINTS ---------(0:00:00) - Dr. Norman RichDr Norman Rich was a pioneer in military vascular surgery, chairing surgery for 25 years and authoring the landmark textbook Vascular Trauma.(0:17:16) - Vietnam Vascular Trauma and RegistryDr. Norman Rich pioneered vascular surgery in the military, developing a registry system and writing the book Vascular Trauma.(0:33:51) – Walter Reed Fellowship Growth and ChallengesDr Rich pioneered military vascular surgery, strengthened fellowship through general surgery, and reached out internationally to start the Uniform Services University medical school.(0:41:39) - Military Unique Pathologies in Vascular SurgeryDr Rich assembled a team of specialists to pioneer military vascular surgery, addressing unique pathologies like Popliteal Entrapment Syndrome.(0:45:35) - International Collaboration on Vascular IssuesDr. Norman Rich spread knowledge of military vascular surgery, with consultants and Excelsior Surgical Society marketing, emphasizing the importance of expertise.(0:58:26) - Memorable Surgical CasesDr. Rich reflects on his experience operating on Eisenhower, meeting with Dr. DeBakey, and the importance of experience and organization in military medicine.

   Embark on a journey to the front lines of military medicine with our esteemed guest, retired Army Lieutenant Colonel Dr. Randi Schaefer. With her wealth of experience, Dr. Schaefer takes us through the intense world of emergency trauma care and her personal evolution from a college student to an accomplished military nurse and emergency medicine expert. We explore the educational paths and specialization opportunities within the military nursing field and the life-saving innovations in pre-hospital blood administration that have triumphed on the battlefield and transformed civilian emergency care.
   Dr. Schaefer pulls back the curtain on the progressive tactics and challenges that have shaped blood transfusion practices over the years. From the early days of relying on hospital staff donors to the current state-of-the-art application of whole blood in the thick of combat, we discuss the critical observations and strategic collaborations that have driven these practices forward. The role of STRAC in revolutionizing pre-hospital care and the crucial impact of timely blood transfusions in saving lives take center stage in this compelling narrative that intertwines military precision with medical breakthroughs.
   Our final moments with Dr. Schaefer reveal the innovative solutions combat medics deploy to save lives under the most extreme conditions, including providing blood transfusions amidst the chaos of active fire. We also shine a light on the advancements that continue to elevate the field, like the Vampire Program and the Tactical Combat Casualty Care training. Dr. Schaefer's ongoing consulting work and vision for emergency medicine not only reflect her unwavering dedication but also promise to guide the future of trauma care to even greater heights. Join us for this captivating episode where valor meets the rigor of medical science, and discover the incredible impact of one woman's journey on the world of emergency medicine.
 
Chapters:
(00:00) Addressing Hemorrhage in Trauma
(07:22) Early Blood Transfusion in Emergency Settings
(15:49) Pre-Hospital Blood Transfusion and Innovations
(27:57) Enhancing Pre-Hospital Blood Transfusion Rates
(37:26) Consulting on Pre-Hospital Blood Administration
 
Chapter Summaries:
(00:00) Addressing Hemorrhage in Trauma
Army nurse Randi Schaefer discusses pre-hospital hemorrhage control and the potential for future improvements in military and civilian sectors.
 
(07:22) Early Blood Transfusion in Emergency Settings
Nature's role in trauma care: reliance on hospital staff, evolution of transfusion practices, and efforts to improve pre-hospital capabilities.
 
(15:49) Pre-Hospital Blood Transfusion and Innovations
Nature's emergency blood transfusion process in pre-hospital settings, including training, logistics, and clinical guidelines for improved trauma care outcomes.
 
(27:57) Enhancing Pre-Hospital Blood Transfusion Rates
TCCC training, missed transfusion opportunities, and improvements in pre-hospital blood programs for combat medics.
 
(37:26) Consulting on Pre-Hospital Blood Administration
Practical aspects of pre-hospital blood product administration, logistics, military background, and legacy of service.
Take Home Messages:
Military medicine has played a critical role in innovating trauma and emergency care, specifically in the field of pre-hospital blood administration, due to the need for immediate life-saving measures in combat scenarios.
Career progression within the Army can lead to educational opportunities and specializations in emergency medicine and trauma care, as evidenced by the journey of a retired Army Lieutenant Colonel and military nurse.
The shift in blood transfusion practices, such as the transition from crystalloids and component therapy to the use of whole blood, has been influenced by clinical observations and the necessity for timely interventions to reduce mortality rates.
The Southwest Texas Regional Advisory Council (STRAC) has been inst