Keeping the 6th Medical Group online

  • Published
  • By Airman 1st Class Danielle Conde
  • 6th Air Mobility Wing public affairs
MACDILL AIR FORCE BASE, Fla. --  The 6th Medical Support Squadron information systems personnel are indispensable when it comes to ensuring the 6th Medical Group's servers and networks are running properly at MacDill Air Force Base, Florida.

"Our job is crucial to the 6th MDG, because without us patient information wouldn't be accessible," said Senior Airman Jared Metcalfe, 6th MDSS network analysis. "Our shop is there to maintain continuity of information, accessibility and provide constant communications for our medical personnel."

Behind closed doors, the network room is filled with server racks and fiber uplinks, which are constantly kept cool by fans. This central location houses all of the 6th MDG servers, networks, and even has an entire section dedicated to the appointment line.

In addition to managing the information technology system and networks, the shop is also continually integrating new technology to enhance communication, the delivery of healthcare and the efficiency of business practices.

Currently, MacDill's systems shop is a test site for a few programs, such as the new digital imaging program for electronic health records and a new equipment tracking system.

"Our shop tests these programs and gives a recommendation as to whether they should be implemented Air Force wide," said Metcalfe.

With everything going digital and new technology being integrated, this shop is crucial to keeping the entire system of the 6th MDG online.