Page 116 - Journal of Special Operations Medicine - Fall 2017

and physical health are not simply the absence of illness and These efforts will continue to evolve, but questions still re-
cannot be determined solely by the absence of a condition or main about what are the best practices and what is the efficacy
event. Future measurement efforts should acknowledge that of such efforts. New models on how to keep pace with the
positive and negative metrics are often orthogonal. We also ever-changing landscape of modern warfare will evolve, but
need to examine how positive adaptation in the TFF domains HPO initiatives that encompasses the triple aims, a “left of the
can lead to cost savings. Metrics that either directly or indi- bang” orientation, and a holistic POTFF/TFF approach offer
rectly measure outcomes of interest and reach beyond medical the most comprehensive way to support SOF and their fami-
definitions are needed. Table 1 presents hypothetical metrics lies. The long-term consequences of having implemented such
across the various stages, from medical care to performance a framework, in terms of outcomes and cost savings, need to
based. Each community would drive the list of appropriate be addressed.
metrics based on mission goals and unit needs.
Disclaimer
Table 1 Comparison of Various Metrics Use Across the Performance- The opinions or assertions contained herein are the private
Illness Continuum views of the authors and are not be construed as official or as
Human General Health reflecting the views of the Uniformed Services University or
Performance and Readiness Medical Care Department of Defense.
Expert
marksmanship PT pass rates Depression Disclosures
Reaction time Back strain Anxiety The authors have no financial relationships or conflicts to
Unit cohesion Occupational stress Osteoarthritis disclose.
Focus and Fatigue measures Musculoskeletal
problem solving injuries References
Mission driven Readiness levels Diabetes 1. Thomas RA. Statement of General Raymond A. Thomas, III, U.S.
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Sleep Dental examination TBI Emerging Threats and Capabilities. http://docs.house.gov/meetings
Adaptability Occupational stress Stress injuries /AS/AS26/20170502/105926/HHRG-115-AS26-Wstate-Thomas
R-20170502.PDF.2017. Accessed 29 July 2017.
Optimism Alcohol/tobacco use Cardiovascular disease
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26
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