Munson Soldiers explore paths to commissions in Army medicine

Official Statements

• Munson Army Health Center Public Affairs, November 9: “FORT LEAVENWORTH, Kansas — Soldiers at Munson Army Health Center explored opportunities to build on their enlisted experience and become Army Medical officers during a visit from Army Medical Department recruiters Nov. 2. While the visit focused on Munson Soldiers, the recruiters can assist any Soldier, other service member or civilian throughout the Fort Leavenworth community who is interested in career opportunities in Army Medicine. The discussion covered education, scholarship and commissioning programs in medicine, dentistry, nursing, physical therapy, occupational therapy, nutrition and social work. Recruiters answered questions about academic prerequisites, selection boards and the steps needed to prepare an application. “A lot of these programs, yes, they are quite competitive, but at the same time, that’s what we do,” said Maj. Brandi Barrett, Kansas City Medical Recruiting Station officer in charge. “We assist you in the application process.” The team emphasized that prospective applicants do not have to navigate the process alone. Recruiters can help identify programs, explain prerequisites, gather supporting documents and prepare competitive application packets. “Before I came to AMEDD recruiting, I had no idea a lot of these programs existed,” said Sgt. 1st Class Courtney Aquino, a medical recruiter. Among the opportunities presented was the Health Professions Scholarship Program (HPSP), which provides financial support for qualifying professional education in exchange for service as an Army Medical Officer. In addition to supporting medical and dental school, recruiters highlighted that HPSP can also fund certain advanced doctoral-level programs, including Doctor of Nursing Practice and Certified Registered Nurse Anesthetist (DNP/Crna) training, as well as doctoral education in veterinary medicine, optometry and clinical psychology. The team discussed how the program can help address the cost of these programs, including tuition and other authorized educational expenses. For enlisted Soldiers interested in nursing, the team outlined the AMEDD Enlisted Commissioning Program, which provides eligible Soldiers an opportunity to complete a Bachelor of Science in Nursing and earn a commission in the Army Nurse Corps. Recruiters encouraged applicants to highlight leadership and teamwork alongside their academic qualifications. “They do want to see a lot of teamwork and leadership positions in their resumes,” said medical recruiter Staff Sgt. Alondra Mena. The recruiters also described graduate education programs in rehabilitation specialties and behavioral health that are linked to renowned, accredited academic institutions. Degree paths in nutrition, occupational therapy and physical therapy are offered through Army‑Baylor University programs, while the Army Master of Social Work pathway is conducted in partnership with the University of Kentucky. Recruiters emphasized that these school affiliations reflect the quality and accreditation of the training available to future Army Medical officers. Another option discussed was the Interservice Physician Assistant Program (IPAP). Although the local recruiting office does not process IPAP applications directly, recruiters can help Soldiers understand supporting requirements and coordinate steps such as commissioning physicals. The team’s assistance can also include preparing applicants for interviews required by certain programs. “If we know that there’s going to be an interview with it, then we will help to prepare you for that interview,” Aquino said. Starting early was a recurring message. Academic preparation, medical reviews, recommendations and personnel approvals can take time, and some programs hold selection boards only once a year. Soldiers may also need approval for release from their current enlisted career field. During a discussion following the presentation, recruiters explained that their support also extends to military family members exploring medical careers and practicing health care professionals interested in becoming Army officers. For civilian nurses and other qualified health professionals, the team discussed direct commissioning opportunities based on education, credentials, experience and Army requirements. Recruiters also described potential nursing specialty training, loan repayment and financial incentives, emphasizing that availability depends on the specialty, component and program.

  “Don’t hesitate to talk to a recruiter,” Barrett said. “We are here to answer any questions that you may have.” Service members and civilians throughout the Fort Leavenworth community interested in Army medical careers can contact the Army Medical Recruiting Station in Overland Park, KS 520-706-9193, or visit 7500 College BLVD suite 720, Overland Park, KS 66210, to explore opportunities that match their qualifications and professional goals.”