2014 Appalachian Care Medical Mission

WORD106.3 ^ | 6/9714 | WORD106.3

[Babsig]

"The US Army will be bring the Appalachian Care Medical Mission to Swain County by offering Free Medical Services June 2-12, 2014. Medical service is open to everyone."

Found this on WORD 106.3 Radio Facebook page. This Email to Bob McClain, radio host. then I found it on the Swain Co Health Dept web page:

Hey Bob-

I was approached by a friend at work yesterday, asking if I had knowledge of an unusual activity taking place in Swain County, NC. He didn’t specifically say which town was in question, other than the average income level is similar to the area of Appalachia. In other words, the people there don’t always have the best health care- either from lack of insurance or lack of facilities.

According to his report, his mother is one of a whole community receiving health care as a result of the U.S. Army rolling into town and setting up shop. In full uniform, plenty of vehicles including medical, power and water purification. Like they would in a disaster or declaration of martial law?

No insurance was required. No questions about if they even had insurance.

From what I understand, the range of care covered pretty much everything. She’s had her eyes examined, got two new pair of glasses, got her teeth fixed, full physical and shots. After walking up the hill to sign in and fill out paperwork at the auditorium, she was a bit winded. The officer, an Army Medical captain sent a GI down the hill to retrieve her car for her and bring it to the top of the hill. …Nice guy…

After talking with her, he found out she also has a poodle. He invited her to bring her dog the next day, because the Army also brought in a vet.

After mulling this over at length, I’ve had a few possible thoughts:

1) There had been no local disaster or emergency 2) No report by the local media of this occurrence or any problems requiring the military to “drop in” 3) It could be a 2-3 week drill, if it was the National Guard…. But it’s the regular Army 4) Very likely it could be a FEMA drill a. If so, was this done as an opportunity to get the populace used to this kind of presence and “benefits”? b. Will the people of this small town be expected to show papers for any further medical needs? 5) Are there any other small towns receiving these “benefits”?

I would like to receive some feedback if anybody has the particulars on this situation, or any others like it in the Southeast. My feeling is this is going to show as part of a trend or buildup.

[Babsig]

Any ideas why the Army is doing this? Anyone hear this happening before?

[buckalfa]

Medical missions to the poor and under-served areas of Appalachia have gone on since the 1920’s. Churches, colleges, medical schools and service organizations do God’s work. I believe the US Public Health Service, a branch of the Armed Forces that reports to the US Surgeon General also is known to participate. I believe this might be where the report of the US Army (transportation) being on site comes into play. Then again, tin foil hats might be in order. I am sure Bobby Mac and Miss Money Penny will research this and get to the actual facts.