Photo By Sgt. David Thomson | U.S. Soldiers with the 213th Regional Support Group, Pennsylvania National Guard get...... read more read more
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FORT INDIANTOWN GAP, Pa. - Every year, Soldiers must complete assessments to ensure they are physically and mentally fit for duty. The Periodic Health Assessment, or PHA, is an annual medical evaluation designed to maintain the overall readiness of Soldiers.
Soldiers are expected to remain in peak condition year-round and the annual PHA gives a review of Soldiers' health. The assessment consists of medical screenings, updates to personnel records and behavioral health evaluations. It also consists of vision and hearing checks, vaccinations, blood work and overall health assessments. These essential measures ensure Soldiers are prepared for military duty.
One key aspect of the PHA is the ability to track and update medical conditions that may affect Soldier's abilities. Medical providers review a questionnaire with Soldiers relating to health, chronic conditions, recent injuries or surgeries.
The PHA isn't just physical health, but the complete Soldier: physical, mental and emotional. Medical staff catch mental health issues early and provide help before they get worse. By focusing on mental health, Soldiers can stay resilient and strong under pressure.
Beyond medical evaluations, some units, like the Pennsylvania National Guard's 213th Regional Support Group, also take care of annual records review as part of this process. Pay, training records, security clearance updates and promotion status are important items that are reviewed and, if needed, updated.
Administrative reviews help Soldiers prepare for deployments and other military operations by ensuring their records and pay are correct, so they can focus on their military duties.
“The admin portion is just as important as the medical side,” said 1st Lt. Samantha Gabriel, a human resources officer with the 213th RSG. “By staying on top of these requirements, we set our Soldiers up for success.”
PHAs are necessary and become even more important for deployments. Soldiers who deploy overseas often face harsh conditions and significant physical stress.
“The admin and medical review event is designed so that the Army can enhance administrative and medical readiness,” said Chief Warrant Officer 3 Andrew Swerdlow, a human resources warrant officer with the 213th RSG. “This strengthens our capabilities of worldwide deployment for Soldiers.”
| Date Taken: | 10.23.2024 |
| Date Posted: | 10.25.2024 13:18 |
| Story ID: | 483761 |
| Location: | FORT INDIANTOWN GAP, PENNSYLVANIA, US |
| Web Views: | 55 |
| Downloads: | 0 |
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