Mass school physicals at military treatment facilities: a successful approach

Mass physicals are commonly employed by military treatment facilities (MTFs) as a way to complete school physicals for large numbers of military dependents. Because these events are usually held a few times yearly, military staff may lack the experience necessary to conduct these events efficiently. Patient and staff satisfaction at these events can be very low if they are poorly planned and executed. At Martin Army Community Hospital (BMACH), the primary care clinics have developed an efficient and effective mass physical plan. The use of appointments for these physicals and prescreening immunization records are crucial to smooth mass physical operation. The use of color-coded signs, clear command structure, and pre-event training for staff are important tools for success. We describe our approach to mass physicals which can be adapted for use at other MTFs.