JOINT BASE ANDREWS, Md. –
It is the responsibility of the 779th Medical Group Laboratory and Pathology Flight to ensure that more than 500,000 beneficiaries receive first-rate laboratory care. Blending patient care and sample testing, the Airmen of the 779 MDG Laboratory and Pathology Flight identify and evaluate potential life altering diseases, and develop plans and programs to assist providers in the diagnosis of life threatening diseases.
"The key areas our laboratory technicians focus their time on are blood bank, microbiology, hematology, chemistry, histopathology and customer service departments. Each area includes a specific section of expertise ranging from collecting samples for routine lab work to providing blood units for high ranking officials on overseas trips," said Maj. Teresa Maddox, 779 MDG Clinical Laboratory & Pathology flight commander.
The lab operates on a 24/7 basis with a technician always on-site and available to assist the Emergent Care Clinic staff for urgent lab testing. They process, analyze and identify all known body fluids for rapid identification of possible sicknesses.
"The Laboratory & Pathology Flight personnel work with providers as a team to assist in preventive care measures, as well as, acute and chronic disease detection. The flight provides DoD beneficiaries around the National Capital Region with an environment of care and atmosphere of professionalism," said Senior Master Sgt. Mary Martin, 779 MDG Clinical Laboratory & Pathology flight chief.
Overall the Laboratory & Pathology flights plays a vital role in making sure patients are properly diagnosed and treated for whatever ails them.