HCAMP presents a complete, safe, and effective medical-hospital care structure in a complex training environment.
During Cruzeiro do Sul Exercise (CRUZEX) 2024, the Brazilian Air Force (FAB) relies on an essential structure for the training of the military personnel: the Field Hospital (HCAMP). Led by Major Juliana Freire Vandesteen, doctor, HCAMP is responsible not only for providing medical care to the participants but also for training them in Tactical Pre-Hospital Care, preparing military personnel to respond promptly to emergencies in combat scenarios where speed and precision are critical.
At the core of the Field Hospital structure, a Health Unit has been set up with beds for stabilization, intensive care, and rest, equipped to respond quickly to incidents of various severity levels during the Exercise. According to Major Vandesteen, the facility is a decisive factor for health safety and operational readiness of the military personnel during CRUZEX. “It is important to have quick and efficient care here to minimize the impact of the personnel being away from their homes and military organizations,” she emphasizes.
In this regard, the medical team, both for care and training, is composed of qualified professionals, including doctors, dentists, nurses, and licensed practical nurses, all trained in both Pre-Hospital Care and Tactical Pre-Hospital Care. “This complete structure allows HCAMP to provide continuous and emergency care, ensuring that CRUZEX demands are met in a quick and safe manner,” the Commander adds.
Major Fábio de Queiroz Teixeira, also a doctor, says that being at CRUZEX 2024 is highly rewarding but also a challenge that requires readiness and agility. “Our work here goes far beyond simulated exercises, as healthcare is real and essential to maintaining the strength of each military member. We need to stay alert to ensure that everyone is in full condition to continue in the Exercise. For this, the setup and the qualified team make all the difference. Seeing our work reflected in the troops’ well-being and knowing we are contributing to the success of the mission is extremely rewarding,” he says.
Within the HCAMP structure at CRUZEX, for less complex cases, a Medical Center has been set up to facilitate quick treatment of injuries and minor conditions without requiring extended time away from the Exercise. In more serious cases, the HCAMP team is prepared to conduct Aeromedical Evacuations, ensuring efficient and safe transport to medical centers if needed.
Sergeant Letícia Aranha, nurse, explains that participating in CRUZEX 2024 at HCAMP is a great responsibility, as healthcare is real and crucial for the well-being of military personnel. “We handle cases daily that range from minor injuries to complex situations, and we offer continuous medical support to ensure everyone is in full working condition. It’s a demanding job but very rewarding, as it directly contributes to the performance and readiness of all military personnel participating in the Exercise,” she explains.
Dentistry at CRUZEX 2024
In an intense military exercise where physical and mental strain is high, oral health becomes essential to ensure that military personnel maintain their well-being and can focus on fulfilling missions without limitations. As such, dental care is critical for CRUZEX 2024 participants, as unexpected dental issues, like pain or infections, can quickly impair their ability to perform in high-stakes situations.
“Once again, dentistry reaffirms the importance of our work in troop health. Dental care is essential, as dental problems can worsen quickly and affect military readiness. We receive many emergency dental cases, such as pain and trauma, that must be solved quickly to prevent the participant from losing their operational capability. At HCAMP, our role is to ensure that even in situations of great physical and psychological strain, oral health is maintained,” explains the Chief of the Health Unit, Captain Aline Reinozo Gonçalves, Dentist.
