FORT JACKSON, S.C. -- We have been hit pretty hard lately with a number of viruses related to flu and colds. I want to remind all of you that your health is a top priority. As Army medical beneficiaries, you deserve the finest care and support we can provide.

Moncrief Army Community Hospital personnel recognize that paying attention to your unique needs is key to overall patient satisfaction, because they are serving to heal, honored to serve. They are an excellent team of medical professionals who dedicate their lives to ensuring our Soldiers, Families, Civilians, Veterans and Retirees have the best possible health care.

I know our medical personnel will agree with me when I say that it's important that you take every precautionary measure to avoid astringent illnesses. According to the Department of Health and Environmental Control, 15 South Carolinians have died due to the flu-related illnesses in 2012.

That's compared to just one death last flu season. Just so you are aware, the flu season runs from October until May in South Carolina. This month is considered to be the peak time of year for the flu.

Receiving an annual vaccination is just the beginning to staying healthy. We need everyone to be aware of available medical services for families and prevention methods that can improve our readiness. At MACH, we have more than 40 different clinics that provide some type of physical, spiritual or mental health care for beneficiaries of Army medical services. Our professionals make it a priority to keep our Army Family always ready.

As a patient, you can play a vital role in improving your health care by becoming an active, involved and informed participant of the MACH health care team. You will be the center of the health care team.

I encourage all patients -- Service members, Families, Retirees and Veterans to inform health care professionals of areas in which they can improve.

In addition, give recommendations about future services that you believe should be made available. Also, ask questions and participate in all decisions about your care. It is MACH's goal to have a resilient, healthy force.

I recently had the opportunity to visit the pharmaceutical department of MACH and the professionals really impressed me with their ability to track, process and evaluate patient medications.

Here are a few tips we all need to know that will help our medical personnel do their jobs better and help keep us healthier: Educate yourself on your diagnosis; pay attention to the care you are receiving; know your medications and know your family medical history. You have the right to know about your care and be involved in your care. I encourage you to take the necessary precautions to ensure you have the best health care.

During this month, MACH wants to educate Soldiers, Families, and Civilians on how to become involved with the health care experience. MACH will have informational booths located in the main lobby to inform the community about health care and medical services and show appreciation for being a member in the Team Jackson and MACH health care community.

Our hospital is among the first option for Soldiers, Families, Civilians, Retirees and Veterans in the city and local communities. It takes a great number of medical personnel to provide quality services each and every day. Their efforts are critical in helping our community with the quality of care that is comparable to their service to our country and Army.

I want to personally thank our Army medical professionals as they are one of our many key assets that keep us healthy. If you would like more information on MACH and or vaccines, please call the Family Health Clinic at 751-2210.

Army Strong and Victory Starts Here!

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